It’s official, Jinja still has my heart and God orchestrated the perfect day.
I spot Mama Lucy on the other side of the yard and begin walking towards her, she sees me and stands up with her baby girl in her arms…a huge smile on both of our faces…our pace quickens, we run a few feet and embrace each other with open arms…laughter, greetings, love. We catch up for a few minutes and then I turn to my left and see Mama Claire, a huge smile spread across her face in the shy way…as if to ask if I remember her as well. She doesn’t just remember my name…she remembers when I left, she asks about my family and my schooling, she shares about the hardships she’s faced since we said goodbye two years ago. She’s open, honest, and tears of pain come in between the laughter and thanksgiving of being reunited.
I recognize some of the children, much bigger than when I left. They seem happy. Most that I knew have gone home with families. I hear that the twins I fell in love with have gone home with their dad and are doing great, happy and healthy, with an amazing father. I couldn’t have asked for better news…they are home where they belong.
I’m saying my goodbyes and I hear my name from someone behind me…it’s Mama Rukia…she has the same sweet smile and tells me how she saw me when she walked in and asked Mama Lucy if it was really me…if I was really back.
They all want to know how long I will stay, when I will be back, and when I can come back for longer. I wish I had the answers…I half jokingly tell them to take it up with God, because as soon as He gives me the ok I’ll be back.
I have a peace in Jinja that I’ve never experienced anywhere else…a joy that flows through my veins. I know that God has placed this love in my heart, so now I will wait on His timing for me to return.
This was my day~ while most of my squad went rafting on the Nile, I met up with a friend that I met here 2 years ago and just moved back. I had the opportunity to catch up with her and hear about all that God is doing in her life. Then we headed to the orphanage that we’ve both volunteered at in the past for an amazing afternoon, complete with a party celebrating the orphanage’s 7 year anniversary.
Thank you God for such a perfect day in Jinja!
