Monday we had the opportunity to visit the center in Tiwi. Although we do not support that center it gives us a glimpse into the future of our centers. The school goes through grade 8. We had the privilege to hear the presentations of the children as they recited scripture, poems and sang for us.
It was a rainy day with a down pour coming during the presentation. We were glad for shelter. After the presentations we had the opportunity to interact with the students. We played with them and talked with the older students. As long as we talked slow they didn't have trouble understanding us. It was fun to hear about their hopes and dreams and what they liked to do for fun.
In the group of students I spoke with there were dreams of becoming doctors, lawyers, pilots and even a judge. Oh that God would open the doors to make those dreams come true! It is our prayer that God would allow us the privilege of helping to shape the next generation of leaders in these communities and in this country.
The trip to Tiwi itself is an experience in culture and history. From the liberty bell (warning of an approaching slave trade ship) to crossing on the ferry to seeing the communities along the day it was very enlightening and we are thankful for the opportunity!
After returning to Voyager we took those who were interested to a couple of shopping areas and a brief visit to an orphanage. The woman who started the orphanage has an incredible story and God has used her to provide a home for 35 children who have lost parents or been abandoned by their parents. It was heart breaking and a blessing all at the same time. It was deeply moving to see them and interact with them just for a brief period of time.
Today we are off on Safari. We will see and experience a different side of Kenya as we travel along the country roads to the game park. This is our time to finally relax, process and spend some time getting to know the wonderful missionaries we are privileged to partner with in Kenya.
Thoughts are strongly turning toward home about now and we want you to know how very much we appreciate your love and prayers for us! Thank you for sacrificing to make this possible. We are all deeply touched by the opportunity to represent you in this place. God is at work and we cannot wait to tell you about all we have seen, heard and experienced!
My next post will be after we return on Safari some time on Wednesday....Kenya time, of course!
We love you!
Denise
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Oh, how well I recall this time of the trip! So many emotions! Feelings of wanting somehow to stay and work with the children but also feelings of missing our families and friends back home and wanting to share with them our experiences and our hopes for the people of Kenya!
ReplyDeleteYes, the relaxation and fun of the safari is a blessed time and God's reward for all the time spent doing His work. I particularly loved getting to know our missionaries.
I will patiently await your return...to hear all you have to share. Thank you for taking me with you, at least in spirit. I know that my prayers have surrounded you all the way.
My love to all of you!!!
Denise,
ReplyDeleteWith all of your vivid detail, I am able to re-visit all of those wonderful feelings and places again. It sounds like you all stayed healthy, praise God! It won't be long before you're all home. Soak up as much as you can:) Get up early and listen to the lions roar or the elephants sucking water.
My love to you all,
Angie
OH! How well you describe it Denise, like Angie said Sooo vivid. Praise GOD for all he is doing with the Africa missions, for safety ,health,and the memories etched in your minds. I scroll down the thousands of photos taken last year and I'm right there with you all, seeing first hand the beauty of our makers creation. My love to you all, and don't breath in too much of the red dust from the trails.....I pray for good tires on your safari as well
ReplyDeleteDolores and I have enjoyed every detail of every day and have been with you in spirit.We will take two orphans. Dolores requests a baby to be to be returning in those carry-ons. Looking forward to seeing you and hearing all you have experienced. Roger, don't forget to take the camel ride. We want pictures! Hi to Bobby & Lisa and Jim & Susie. Love to all. Dolores & Barb
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