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This morning the team visited the Arise and Shine school where 50 children awaited us.
Beatrice the teacher, as well as the children were eager to sing several songs to us in in greeting!
We then read the story of Jonah and the Big Fish followed by colouring pages of Jonah in the belly of the fish.
Children could then make bracelets with beads and pipe cleaners followed by games, played out in the school yard.
Cora
As I sit down to write this blog, I wonder how I can ever describe the lives of “our” ladies in Kenya, or what it feels like to visit with them.
We’re given such a beautiful opportunity to catch a glimpse of their hearts. These women have lived through hardship and loss, and yet they welcome us with gratitude, joy and contentment. I have such deep respect for them. Their beauty is hard to put into words.
Agnes is 75, with the aches and pains that come from age and years of hard work. She greeted us with a huge smile and such a vigorous handshake that your head bobbed.
Phyllis is 36 and quiet and reserved. She is caring for her elderly mother-in-law, who is bedridden and very sick, while also raising eight children and working hard in the fields.
Maggie opened her home and cooked rice and lentils for us. I’m sure it was nerve-racking for her, but she was also so delighted and honoured to have us there.
There are so many more women I could share about, but I’ll close with Traphosa. She is new to the Voice of Hope program, almost 80 years old, and sharp as can be. Her home and latrine are in great need of repair. Food is scarce, and she told us that when she has been hungry for 3 days she goes to look for casual work so she can buy food.
And yet, her attitude and perspective on life are remarkable. Like Paul, she lives out these words:
“Not that I speak in regard to need, for I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content: I know how to be abased, and I know how to abound. Everywhere and in all things I have learned both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”
I know these brief descriptions can’t fully show you who these women are or what they have lived through. Their strength, joy and contentment are something you have to experience for yourself.
Consider joining our Voice of Hope team. Come and learn from these women. Come and hear God’s people share their stories. You will never be the same.
Mary Anne
