It's now July 7th and I have just arrived in Africa. Iit's an incredibly unbelievable story of challenging events. Our team of 7 arrived in 3 groups and of course, I was in the last group. I slept in airports for 3 nights and was lied to by Kenya Airlines for 3 days. Peter and I ended up taking Qatar Airlines from London to Nairobi and then Kenya Airlines from Nairobi to Entebbe. I was on the verge of tears the last day because of all the frustrations!! BUT GOD WAS GOOD THROUGH IT ALL. I did meet several wonderful people while in the airports who were Christians and I was encouraged by that. I tried to keep things in perspective because my circumstances were so insignificant to many others circumstances. I have a dear friend who is recovering from Stage 3 colon cancer surgery. Now, that is something to be concerned about. My 'problem' is very minimal to what he is experiencing.
ANYWAY, I have already met my precious sponsored family, Nakasi Justine and her three grandchildren. It was such an emotional meeting. We cried so much. I had written her a letter and Jerome translated it for her. She was pleased but the feeling I had was indescribable. To be involved first hand in the lives of a family suffering from the affects of AIDS, was such an incredible feeling. I proceeded in giving Nakasi and the children the gifts I had brought them. They seemed to appreciate everything. I realized they had no beds in their TINY home so the blankets I brought will be helpful on the cold evenings. Even though I wasn't sure about sizes of clothes, all I brought can be shared with neighbors if they don't fit. Toys, bubbles, balloons, etc. will be enjoyed by the kids and neighbors. Later, Nakasi Justine gave me gifts!!!! I am p leased to say that I am the proud owner of a rooster we have named TACO!! What a beauty!! I'm sure Dottie and Precious will be confused about their new 'cousin'! Nakasi Justine had also made a beautiful mat made of reeds. I was so touched!!! Following the gift giving, I was taken on a tour of the 'backyard' where I saw the graves of her 5 children, a small garden, the goats that our sponsorship money had purchased, as well as the roof that she will fix in the future. Time was short so we had to move on to the next family, but Nakasi Justine knows that our family will be praying for her and the children and that they are now part of our lives forever. All the headaches of the previous 3 days were all worth it just to meet 'MY AFRICAN FAMILY'!!! I'll try to write again later.
Because I arrived here 3 days late, I'm considering staying longer. I have talked to John and he suggested it. I am so blessed to have such a caring family!! Derek, Carleigh and John have been such strong supporters for me during my airport ordeal. Thanks for the prayers!!!! I LOVE YOU ALL AND MISS YOU!!!!!