Dear Mom,
I just wanted to wish you a happy mother's day in a very public way. I obviously would prefer to be able to wish you happy mother's day in person, but it seems we're going to have to wait a few more months to be able to hug each other.
So far, Kenya has been incredible. The team is strong, and the people are amazing. Our contact, Bishop Moses, is a great man, and we have received blessing after blessing in the form of food, comfort, and welcoming. He is a great contact to have, because his love for his country and his people is so evident.
But enough about me! I am so fortunant to have you as a mother. It may seem reticent, but that's because it's such a shame that it's taken so long to truly appreciate the influence you've had in my life. It seems that it's only when one's far removed from home that they realize what an impact home has had in making them into the people they are. The few among the Race who have met you, and friends from home, have constantly pointed out how many of my traits, physical and otherwise, remind them of you and Dad.
I consider this a fortunant occurance. You have many of the characteristics I wish I could emulate to a stronger degree. You live your life with kindness, patience, courage of conviction, and wisdom. You truly care for those around you. You empathize and sympathize in a way that can truly affect you, and amazing. You pour into people who in the end don't deserve it, and while you may even suspect it, you never stop loving them and investing in them.
Happy mother's day, Beth Dale. I am truly lucky to be able to wish that to you, and from Kitale, Kenya, no less.
Love,
~Jordan
