Summer Under a Burning Sun

At the moment, I am sitting in a coffee shop in Kampala, nestled in the corner and entranced by what I see. I am surrounded by folks who wanna change the world...or at least it seems. I see young and vibrant mzungus discussing global issues, asians being awesome and I assume (wishing I knew their language) talking about something important and knowledgeable, interracial families enjoying one another, and diverse folks glued to the newspapers. These are people who care about change. They have inspired me. It feels like home...but also feels a little more real. I can tell these folks have stories and experiences that are rare and unique. If you are living in Uganda, there must be an intriguing reason  as to why. Or a cause you are fighting for. You don't plant roots in a 3rd world country just for the heck of it. Again, I just thank God so much for the privilege of being here, in a country so treasured, but so in need. 

So, I have ventured out of Lira for a week and a half. I have not left that beloved town since April. I've learned something about myself: I don't put up boundaries very well and tend to burn myself out! This is not a good thing. I have LOVED my summer living at Atin, but am ready for a small respite before returning. Living with street kids is the hardest thing I have ever done, however, perhaps the most rewarding. Its not in any way easy love. You are pushed to embrace the hard kind of love; the one where you really have to swallow your pride, and learn to love without record of wrongs. The kind that reflects your own inability without the help of God. These kids aren't the cute and cuddly kind. But they are REAL. They have stories that would make you cry and families that have neglected them. They have minds matured beyond their years. They know how to survive on nothing but scraps and trash. They have been hurt, wounded and numbed by neglect . So, how can I expect them to love well, when they have not been loved themselves? My conclusion is this: they are lovely still. They are glorious ruins, just like me. 

I will return to Lira and a new chapter will begin. The last one before returning home. It will be a time of teaching and sharing God's word, both to my dear kids and the women I have befriended in the community. And also to myself :) I still have much to learn. Will try to be better about blogging too, specifically the little things, since they are always interesting. This summer has been a time filled the laughter and play with my kids, motorcycles days to the village (did a small photography job for an NGO here), lots of beans and posho, rainy days, and fellowship with many Ugandans. Sometimes I would go days without the presence of another mzungu...talk about immersion. Even here I feel a little socially awkard, forgot how to communicate with my own race! That is slightly dramatic, but I do feel a little behind ha. 

After a few days of rest, I will be heading to Sanyu Babies Home to volunteer for a few days. Then off to Jinja, which I am most excited about. I will be staying with a lovely gal who is newly married to a Ugandan, with 5 adopted children. Her life inspires me and Im excited to be in their company. 

I covet your prayers. Please pray that God would sustain me with His love and teach me more about himself. Also, just want to say, these kids of this term are WONDERFUL. Yes, stubborn sometimes, but most of them are hardworking and so ready for school. They need sponsors and its only $105 a year to basically give them a better life. Well worth it. Contact me if you are interested graciebyrdjones@me.com

till next time :)