Team Kenya post from Holly H

“Are we together?”
It was pointed out during a team meeting last night that “Are we together” is a common saying among the teachers and staff here. It’s similar to asking “Are we on the same page?”
I am so thankful to say that I feel like this team- of Americans and Brazilians- and Kenyans and Germans (love you, Petra) - is together. I’m constantly surprised by the level of openness and vulnerability that each person displays. There’s a lot of love around here.
I can’t write this without sending out a massive ‘Thank You!’ to everyone on the team. Yesterday was a big day for me, (I’m officially an adult!) and I was celebrated like never before. I’m fairly certain that the Familia da Fe guys made it a mission to see how many times they could sing ‘Happy Birthday’ before the day was over.
I’m not very graceful when it comes to receiving gifts and attention the way I did yesterday, but it was truly one of the most incredible days I’ve ever had. Again, thank you.
Speaking of incredible, I don’t think this would be right without a note about the kids here at MOHI. Oh my. I came to Kenya fully prepared to meet and talk with ‘cute kids’, but I never anticipated how thoroughly captivating they are. These little guys are so lively, joyful, and radiant. I can’t even think of a comparison.
They smile easily, and I swear that making them laugh makes you feel as if you won the lottery. Not because it doesn’t happen often (it’s literally the exact opposite - the giggling does not stop!) but because it’s such a beautiful sound.
While that probably sounds redundant – who doesn’t speak that way of kids in a place like this – it’s true. For a country that’s considered destitute and barren, with a reputation of poverty and pain, this is honestly the most beautiful place I could ever conceive of.
I’m currently sitting in the meeting room here at Missions of Hope. Everything about this trip is so surreal for me. Two years ago, I received a challenge that led me to raising money for the Curran’s, who were announcing they were leaving to become missionaries in Turkana, Kenya.
Today, I’m sitting at a table with those very missionaries, eating watermelon and listening to kids from the village serenade some of our team. Tonight, the Curran’s are hosting us for dinner in their home. In 3 weeks, I leave for the trip that gave me the challenge in the first place.
God brings things full circle, my friends. And I am totally in awe. His Church international is majorly evident here. I am thankful. I am blessed. And I am excited for what the next few days will bring.
Blessings,

Holly

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