Relationships Trump All

Thank you for friends and laughter. Thank you for alone time and for craziness. Thank you for smiles from strangers. Thank you for differences in cultures. There are so many things to be thankful for. It's often hard for us to remember to thank God for all the things that happen through the day. But every breath we take is thanks to our Lord and Savior. As we go through our busy lives it's hard to remember that. Especially the days when things don't seem to go our way. I often think back to my days before I left for Uganda; the days I miss my family and friends and having a 'normal' schedule to my day. But since I've been here, I've learned to take things as they come - to roll with the punches. I'll admit, this has not been the easiest lesson to learn. I really find myself having a love-hate relationship with the cultural differences among time management here. There are days I want to pull my hair out, but most of the time all I can do is smile and laugh. Nothing happens quickly here. A what-should-be 10 minute trip to the super market takes an hour because you had to find 3 different boda boda drivers before you could get going, because the first 2 couldn't get their piki to start. Then when you get dropped off by the super market, 5 smiling girls spot you on their walk home from school, and want to hold your hand and get to know you. Next thing you know, they're following you into the super market and insisting to hold your basket for you while you shop around for the items you need. After you're done shopping you can't simply walk away, you then have to say your goodbyes and thank the girls for their help. Once I finally catch a boda home, I realize the time. It may be a lot later then I wanted it to be, but had I gotten upset with the boda drivers or ignored the girls I would have missed out on the laughs and smiles I shared with these beautiful people. I think back to if I was still in America, I probably wouldn't have been so happy about taking up so much extra time, because in America we often don't have time to spare. Week by week we often wind ourselves so tight that we about break. It's like a yo-yo. You throw as many screamers as you can, until one day you can't do it anymore because the string has become so worn and it breaks. Week by week you stretch yourself as far as you can go, but after a while you just can't take it anymore. I can't tell you how many times I've been a culprit of that lifestyle. I often wonder which lifestyle I would prefer; the American culture where we run on a schedule where we have the comfort of knowing what is going to happen each and every day, or the Ugandan culture where life ticks as things come up. You may have something planned for the day but it will probably change because someone comes and knocks at your gate or maybe a friend calls and needs your help. I grew up knowing a life where deadlines run my day, but here relationships trump all. Both ways are good, but I sometimes wonder if the American culture has grown too cold. Now trust me when I say that I have not grown anti-American over my 3 months here. 'Merica is great, but every country has it's flaws. No worldly life is perfect. I am so happy that God has put me here in Uganda. It has made me realize how important relationships are. What fun would living in this world be if we didn't have friends or people to share laughs with?
I learned something interesting from Kent Dobson the other day, via Mars Hill Bible Church podcast. In one of his most recent teachings Sacred Universe: 3, he refers to the very beginning of creation. In Genesis it says 'So God created human beings in His own image. In the image of God He created them; male and female He created them.' Most of us have heard this verse countless numbers of times, but in that I think we can easily bypass the importance of the verse. So we were made in God's image, that's pretty cool. But listen, WE were made in His image. He created all of us equally. This means that the image of God is all around. We reflect the very image of the Divine. When Kent said these words, it really made me think. This is exactly what people in Africa are good at remembering. They take time out of their day to seek out and get to know people, to seek the Divine. The skin that is on our bodies is not ours, it is God's. This body we live every waking/sleeping second in, is His. Take a look at your neighbor, the same goes for him/her. That is where the verse in Leviticus comes out in new light for me. "Do not seek revenge or bear a grudge against a fellow Israelite, but love your neighbor as yourself." - Leviticus 19:18. If we're all made in the image of Christ - if we all have divine sparks - who are we to seek revenge or bear a grudge against another? We have to love each other as we would want to be loved. In order to really know someone, it takes time. That is why I love the importance of relationships here in Uganda. Kent said it best, "God will never be known in the unique way He is being made known in you." How can we share the unique way of God if we don't take the time to talk to others? I don't know about you, but I definitely want others to see the Divine in me. Forming relationships with people is pertinent to spreading the word. Forming relationships takes time. So what's more important; getting your to-do list complete? or taking time out of your day to call up that friend that you've been meaning to talk to for the past couple weeks now, but you just haven't had the time?
I have been blessed with some great friends here in Jinja. We may all come from different places, but we all serve the same Lord. It's amazing who God puts in to our lives. Just when I was starting to miss home the most, I meet a group of girls at church who just so happen to be from Michigan. It's awesome to have a group of people who grew up in the same type of environment as you. It's comforting to have things in common. And for my friends that I've made from Uganda or other African countries, it's truly amazing to hear their stories. Life would be so boring if everyone grew up the same way and experienced the same things. Learning about different cultures/different ways of life is exhilarating. I often think to myself, 'how on Earth have I gone (almost) 25 years of life and not known about this captivating way of life?' There are times we hear about cultural differences, but sometimes it's hard for us to grasp the concept until we actually see it first hand.
It's funny, sometimes I forget that I'm on the continent of Africa. Although I see different things, like jackfruit outside my window or the red dirt that stains my feet, it just feels normal now. Then I walk down the street and literally get stuck in the mud while dodging a big truck coming towards me, because it's so clay-like that my flip flops stick like glue. Then I take a walk down by the Nile river - I remember where I am. I am in Uganda. The Nile River is in my backyard, I mean seriously, what is this life?! I love it. God is so good.

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For those of you who have been praying for me and my upcoming decision making, I want to thank you. I don't think I can express how much you have all helped me. Although I have not made any decisions yet, I am very close. Through your prayers and talking with my friends here in Jinja, God has helped me feel more content with the unknown. I have met with various people throughout the week about places to stay and places to volunteer. I am pretty sure I am close to figuring out what God has planned, but who knows what He has planned for me this week. For now, I will wait as patiently as I can. Please continue with the prayers for clarity and peace, as time keeps ticking.
Please keep the Fishers in your prayers as well, as their adoption progression keeps moving and they are preparing to finalize everything here in Uganda.


Grace & Peace,
Kendall

Sleeping in a Zoo

So this weekend I had the opportunity to visit Uganda's Wildlife Education Center for the second time. The first time was about a month ago when we came to Entebbe to pick Chris up from the airport. This time I got to make a road trip with a fun group of girls I've had the privilege of meeting at church a couple weeks back. We ventured out Saturday evening and made our way to Entebbe. We took a transportation called the Pineapple Express. We didn't arrive to the zoo until about 10pm. By that time it is pitch black outside. We were dropped off at the gate, we grabbed our bags and started walking. The Bandas that we stayed in are located at the back of the zoo. Here we are, walking through the zoo in the dark. I'm not going to lie, it was slightly terrifying. But then I thought to myself, how many people can say they've walked through a zoo after hours, in the dark, and in Africa?! It was a pretty sweet thought. When we arrived to our Bandas we and set our bags down. Shortly after we were settled, the power went out. At that point there wasn't much we could do, so we called it a night and headed to bed.

One of the Bandas we stayed in.

From the other side of the zoo, you can see how close the giraffes are to our Bandas. They are right beyond those trees.

The next morning we woke up and slowly got ready. Then we started the trek to the front of the zoo where we ate breakfast at the restaurant there. It over looks Lake Victoria and the sound of the waves crashing against the shore made me feel like I was back at home, sitting by Lake Michigan.

Beautiful Lake Victoria

As we were eating our omelets and chips (what Ugandans call fries) there was a dark cloud approaching. Luckily we were just finishing when it started to rain. We paid our bill and ran to the front desks. We were all set to start our tour with our friend Sam, but the rain was stopping us. Instead of heading out in the park, Sam started us in a building. In this building was skeletons of different African animals. Sam told us all about the African elephant, lions, and hyenas. He even had us role play a couple different techniques lions and hyenas use hunt their prey. 

Sam telling us about the African elephant

Skull of a lion

Sam teaching us about the hot springs in southwest Uganda

It continued to rain, so after we were done we headed back to the front desk to deliberate what we were going to do. We decided to head back to the Bandas until the rain stopped. On our way to the Bandas the rain had stopped, so we decided to start our adventure there. We saw so much of God's creation, and like He said in the beginning, 'It was good'. We even road a camel! 

The Rhino

How creative was God when He made the zebra?! So beautiful.

My pal Charles, the 3 year old elephant. What a wonderful creature.

Now this is Africa.

Feeding the giraffe.

Aren't these guys gorgeous??

Laura and I riding the camel. Whoo-hoo!

After we finished our tour, we headed back to the zoo restaurant and had some lunch, and as soon as we were finished, (king) Solomon was there waiting to take us back to Jinja in the Pineapple Express. Solomon became our friend very quickly. Before we even hopped in the van with him, he decided it was okay to stop for frozen yogurt on the way home. Frozen yogurt can only be found in Kampala/Entebbe, so when you live in Jinja it is quite a treat! After a few bumps in the road, like stalling in the middle of Kampala, and our spare tire coming loose, we finally made it to Jinja. God was on our side. Although we were only away for about 24hrs it was a nice get away and spend some time with a great group of woman! 

It's a God Thing

It all started a couple weeks ago. It was late one wednesday evening while Chris, Michelle, and I were talking in the living room. Chris was invited to go out on the streets that evening at 10pm. This is the time that the soldiers would start coming out to pick up any street kids they can get. As we were sitting in the living room, exhausted - as we are many nights here - it was approaching 10pm. Chris did not want to get back out, but Michelle told him he should, and being a good husband he did as the wife asked ;) The next morning I wake up and I hear that Chris found a boy crying on the streets and he brought him home to sleep in our back room. The boy's name is Male (pronounced: Mah-lay). I get myself ready for the day and head out to the classroom. As school begins I see Male come from the back room and start playing in the yard. The kids take a break from school and over walks Male. He welcomes me with a huge smile. You can't beat the smiles of Africans, their pearly white teeth against their beautiful brown skin is so beautiful. I ask him how he is doing and introduce myself. He sits next to me and looks at the books I am preparing for the kids. Male seems different then the other boys I have met on the streets. He was very polite and listened when you asked him to do something. James told us that he doesn't think Male has been on the streets for that long. We invite Rachel, our social worker, over to talk with Male. We hear his story and find out he has only been on the streets for a week. He came from Kamuli, after he ran from his aunt. After taking a trip to Kamuli, we figure out that the best place for him is back with his Father in Kampala. After spending a couple days with Male we head out to Kampala and reunite Male with his Father, step-mother, and siblings. From what we have heard, Male is doing well at home. I think he is happy to be off the streets. 

James, Chris, Rachel, & I with Male and his family

Word must have gotten out about what we did for Male, because one Sunday we get a knock at our gate. A boda boda driver dropped off a boy named Samule. Samule has been on the streets for a couple days and he needed help. He didn't speak much english, and we didn't know what to do. Since James was just finishing his shift, he decided that he would take Samule to his house for the time being. A couple days later, after we had learned more about Sam, Chris and Michelle headed to Kamuli with Sam, James, and Rachel. After driving way farther than they thought, they got to Sam's village. Turns out there was some history with theft and we decided it was not safe for him to stay. They talked with his family and for now he is staying with James and his brother Emma. We praise God that James is allowing Sam to stay with him. 

Sam :)

James and Sam in Sam's village

On the way to meet Sam's parents, Chris and Michelle came across a very special boy. His name is David. David was very very sick, and on the brink of death. Chris and Michelle put him in the car with his mother and aunt, and took him all the way back to Jinja to the hospital. David stayed the night there and had tests done. Chris and Michelle got back late and as soon as they pulled in,

Michelle, Chloe, Rachel, and I headed back to the hospital. I have never seen someone so fragile and sick. We only stayed for about and hour or so. We talked with the doctor and made sure everything was set for the night and that they were getting what they needed. The next day, Chris and Michelle had to go to Kampala for the day. Turns out David and his family were not getting what we previously discussed with the doctors, so Patrick and I hopped on the Boda and headed to the hospital. After many walks back and forth from David to the reception desk, we got it figured out. He was set to have an ultra sound that afternoon. Not too long after Patrick and I got home, we got another phone call that the scan was done and someone needed to be there to meet with the doctor. We hopped back on the Boda, and we were off. We sat with the doctor and heard the news. They found multiple masses in David's abdomen area, most likely cancerous. They suggested that we transport him to a different hospital to get a biopsy done. Sitting as David's 'caretakers' was overwhelming. Here I had only known this boy for a few hours and I was sitting hearing the doctors diagnosis. We went and communicated the results and plans with David's family. As I sat at his bedside, hand on his forehead I couldn't help but tear up. He was in so much pain, I couldn't bare to think of what he was feeling. I knew the Lord had a plan, but why did this sweet 11 year old need to go through all this suffering? As we left the hospital with heavy hearts, the sun was setting. As I was eating dinner with Chloe and Kidist, James came and informed me that David passed away not long after we left his side. Praise the Lord that his suffering is over! Although earth is missing sweet David, he is much happier in the Kingdom of Heaven! I will always remember this boy. 

David with his mother and aunt

Sweet David

Even through the sorrow of losing David we have to rejoice. David is free from suffering, Male is back with his family, Sam is happy staying with James temporarily, and Zack is off the streets! A few blog posts ago, I introduced you all to my friends Zack, Amis, and Abadoo. This week Chris and Michelle headed to Zack's village. He was reunited with his father. Zack had been a part of my life ever since I have been in Uganda. As much as he pesters me by poking and pulling on me, I love him dearly. We have spent so much time with him, and I'll cherish that forever. I am going to miss him dearly, but I am SO happy he his back with his family. Better yet, during the visit, Zack's father accepted Christ as his Savior! Zack is happy to be welcomed back to his village. 

Zack and his Dad

Zack, his dad, and Sam

James and Chris talking with Zack and his dad

My buddy Zack

God works in mysterious ways. He brought each one of these boys into our lives for a reason. I appreciate the time I got to/get to spend with each of them. I ask for prayers for each of these boys and their families. It's not easy taking in your child that ran away from the village. Pray for peace in their homes and that there is love to share among these boys.

 

Thank you for all your prayers and support! I have met with some more people about volunteering opportunities for after the Fishers leave. Many of you have shown me love and concern and I appreciate it all! Even from miles away you guys know how to tug those heart strings of mine, thank you! :)

 

Love and miss you all!

 

Grace & Peace,

Kendall 

Changes

I need Thee every hour, most gracious Lord.

No tender voice like Thine, can peace afford.

I need thee, oh, I need thee. Every hour I need Thee.

I need thee, oh, I need Thee. I need Thee every hour.

As of lately, this is the hymn I sing to myself continuously. I could not make it without the Lord by my side. These past couple days have been the hardest days yet, but not to worry I'm back on my feet. I'd like to think I've done pretty well since I've been here. It's been over 2 months now, and I just had my first break down. Chris had a great analogy for it. It's like the game of Jenga. Ever since I have been here, a piece would be pulled out one by one. Once you become so broken, it's hard to balance any longer. I came crashing down to the floor. Now I'm slowing building back up. I would love to tell you all that my life is perfect, but it wouldn't be normal if we didn't have hard days here and there. Living in this world is not easy, for anyone. Trying to be Christ-like, in this corrupt world, is a challenge in and of itself - but you all know that. Whether you're in America or Africa, there are challenges we face every day. That is why we need the most gracious Lord to walk by our sides everywhere we go. Especially when you wake up to a rat scratching at your bedroom door. Yup, that happened to me. The other night I went to get ready to sleep and I found poop in my bed. I thought it was lizard poop, because I have a couple of those living in my room. It's crazy to think, but it's kind of a normal sight to see geckos moving on my walls when I turn the lights on. Anyway, I cleaned my bed and then went to sleep. The next morning I woke up to something scratching at my bedroom door. Still in a daze, I turned the light on on my phone and shined it towards the door. I didn't see anything, and the sound stopped. I laid back down, and a few seconds later I heard the sound again. I quickly flashed the light this time and saw something run behind my chair. I got out of bed and tried finding it, but I had no luck - I will admit, I wasn't really searching that hard. Later that day I walked into my room and saw the fury rodent run past my feet. I immediately shut the door and took a couple seconds to process what had just happened. Then I announced to the house that there was indeed a rat in my room. The girls immediately ran to see it , but I had seen enough. I walked outside to get James. Thank the good Lord for James, our night gaurd. He locked himself in my room and caught the nasty thing. It was James, with a flip flop, in my bedroom. The problem was solved! 

Mr. Ratigan 

Noah & I gawking at the rat.

Besides putting barricades in my bedroom to stop rodents from coming in, there are some changes coming ahead for me. As some of you already know, the Fishers are headed back to America come December [God & Adoption process willing]. As for me, I want to stay. I think God has something else planned for me here, but I'm not sure what. This is where I ask all of you prayer warriors to help me. I would love for God to drop a flashing neon sign down from the sky, pointing to where I'm supposed to go next. I have a feeling that probably won't be the case, but miracles do happen every day. -- I'd like to take the time to quote one of my favorite songs I used to sing around the house. From the motion picture The Prince of Egypt, sung by the infamous Whitney Houston and Mariah Carey, "There can be miracles when you believe. Though hope is frail, it's hard to kill. Who knows what miracles you can achieve when you believe. Somehow you will, when you believe."

This song was on repeat, just ask my mom. I actually remember trying to refrain myself from singing at the top of my lungs when we went to the movie theatre to watch this movie. So with that being said, sorry for my inner musical geek tangent, back to the important stuff. -- I would love to have a decision made by the middle of November. This means I only have about a month to find organizations to work with, find a place to stay, and settle myself. As of now, it seems like it is going to take a miracle to make this all happen, that is why I need your prayers. I am currently looking into a couple different organizations, such as; Amani Baby Cottage, Sole Hope, Ekisa, helping in the village of Niagobya (where the playground was built), and possibly even one of the street child projects. There are so many opportunities here in Jinja, and other parts of Uganda. The big concern for me at the moment is finding a place to live. There are a couple different options available for me, but I need to find somewhere that fits my budget and a place that I feel safe in. I'll make sure to keep you all posted through this decision making process. Although my human mind can't help but stress and worry, I have no doubt that God will lead me in the right direction. "I tell you the truth, if you had faith even as small as a mustard seed, you could say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there,' and it would move. Nothing would be impossible" - Matthew 17:20. 

Thank you all for your prayers and support! Although I just asked you all to pray for me and my decision making, I ask that you all keep the Fishers in your prayers too. They have a huge change coming too. They are going through the process of leaving all they've known for the past 2 years to jump back into the crazy American life. Pray that the transition is easy on all of the family. Also, the adoption process for Noah and Josie is still in progress. Pray for smooth sailing through the rest of the process. And please pray for Chris and Michelle, that they can have peace in the decisions they make for their family.

Thank you! Love you and miss you all! 

Grace & Peace, 

Kendall