Living Simply

Today was a busy day in the office, catching up on emails and just putting finishing touches on everything. Hours in that office fly by like minutes…its crazy! We also got the news today that one of the older students is pregnant and will have to leave school for this year. It was wonderful to see Lucy handle the situation. She basically explained that yes, it is bad timing, but no it’s not the end of the world. The student can have the baby and then go back to school and finish her studies. It was wonderful to see the real support system that MGEF has created for these girls. Some organizations may hear that a girl is pregnant and then give up on her or refuse to sponsor her anymore…but not MGEF. Life goes on and there are always complications, but there is never any reason to give up on a young woman!

After work today, one of Lucy’s friends stopped by the office. Her name is Emily and she is a teacher. I really like her and we have a great time together. Today we listened to music and she tried to teach me more Swahili. I think I received the biggest compliment of my life today…it really touched me. Emily and Lucy were sitting there and together just said, “Michelle, we like you because you are so simple! You are just fine with anything and we appreciate that.” I was completely blown away. Coming from Lucy and Emily, two of the strongest people I know who never complain about anything. They live so simply and selflessly. I was very touched by their words because that is the person I try to be…but often I think I fall short. I start to crave some of the comforts of life. Their compliment renewed my spirit and touched my heart.

When I arrived back at the Children’s Home, I had the privilege to meet a new girl whose name is Naserian. Naserian is an orphan and was abused by her uncle. Luckily, she somehow ended up in the care of the Children’s Home. I heard the story of Naserian’s life before meeting her in person. I expected to see this downtrodden young girl with a broken spirit. But when I finally got to give Naserian a hug…she was one of the most lively and spirited girls I have ever met. Her smile is amazing and she is just so happy. Meeting her just threw me into this weird place. These children are so strong. I am living every day with 80 heroes. 80 children who have somehow figured out how to keep living, keep loving, keep laughing, keep smiling. People tried to break them…but they are too strong. It was an awesome humbling feeling, but I also felt such anger in my heart. Naserian did not deserve that…no 10 year old girl deserves to suffer in that way. I can’t even imagine losing both my parents and then being abused. But then I looked at her face again…and realized that she is not angry. She has moved on…and I must move on as well.

It was nice to just spend the night with the children looking at pictures, playing games, and talking. I feel like I make a new friend here every day! It is really cool to see some of the children gradually warm up to me. There are certain kids who just instantly wanted to be best friends and then there are others who take some time to develop trust. I am so glad that I am able to stay here long enough for them to trust me. It will just be so sad when I have to leave!