Thursday, June 28, 2007

life in a slum

While I am so anxious to be home, I cannot believe that I am leaving this place. I am exhausted in every way possible, but I have learned so much. This place is challenging and will push you to your limit. But most importantly, it brings you to humility and an understanding that we can only- and should only- serve by the Lord's strength alone. We are absolutely nothing without Him. There is a joy only found in Christ that I was reminded of time and time again while I was here. Today especially.

So we decided to be a little rebellious today and go against the rules. I mean, technically we were never told we could not do this. Today, we took a walk, with a local, through the slum of Kibera, the largest slum in the world. Of course, when you think of slum, you think of dying sick people on the side of the road; everyone looking so depressed and hungry; dark clouds and just a generally bad atmosphere. What we saw today was quite different. While there is trash everywhere and lots of people in a small space, life still goes on. The place was bursting with life and energy. People were laughing, people were in deep conversation. Children were learning in school. People were cleaning their businesses. Life still remains. I was only there for about an hour, and it was one of the most rewarding experiences I have had here. Yes, it was difficult to see some things, but definately not what I expected it to be.

Today was also our last day at the BCC. I spent most of the day in town with some people buying a new computer and books for the new school they are opening. When I returned, we went to the sewing class to say goodbye to the girls. They were all so sad and emotional that we were leaving. It was hard to say goodbye to them. They have such sweet spirits and truly care. So many people have given us such genuine words as we have said goodbye to them. They are not afraid to hide their affections. Half of them told me that they love me.

It was also hard to say goodbye to the children. Most of them do not really understand and or do not show emotion. One boy I just fell in the love with on the trip didn't really react when I said bye to him. His name is Josiah. He is probably 7 or 8. He always acts like such an adult and has a great sense of humor. I found him a few times waiting on me to walk with him to lunch. Quite a stud, let me tell you.

I want so badly to promise all of these people that I will come back. I do not know if I will. I just sincerely pray that the only impression I have left is the impression of Christ. I can't ever save them from this world, but my prayer is they meet a Savior who can. Hopefully I will see most of you soon!

peace and love.

p.s. here is a good quote from Bono that really sums up my day:
""God is in the slums, in the cardboard boxes where the poor play house. God is in the silence of a mother who has infected her child with a virus that will end both of their lives. God is in the cries heard under the rubble of war. God is in the debris of wasted oppurtunity and lives, and God is with us if we are with them."

1 comment:

She's Still Thinking said...

Sounds like God's really been moving in your life. That's awesome. Keep letting Him use you.