Today we spent the entire day back at the New Life in Africa Center in the Acholi Quarters. I can’t get over how warm and welcoming the people of Uganda are. We arrived early and were greeted with genuine hugs and handshakes. Children from all corners ran to our bus with extended arms saying “Good morning, so nice to see you again” “Hello, good morning how are you?” They were so excited to see us. The women arrived to the center shortly after carrying their bags of beads, and before sitting down to their day of work, came to each and every one of us to extend a warm welcome and hug.
Melts my heart simply remembering it.
Our day was filled working in activity groups extending from arts and crafts, and playing soccer, to talking about basic health practices with the children and discussing violence against women with the older girls and ladies. Emotions ran high hearing stories from the women about their relationships and culture. My partner throughout the day was Gina, an amazing woman and lawyer from Oregon specializing in violence against women – the way she lead the conversations and opened up her heart was incredibly inspiring. Such a strong woman providing guidance to empower the women of the Acholi tribe – I was blessed to be her partner.
Then it was time to go. So hard to go. So incredibly hard to say goodbye after creating all those bright connections - Flavia, Jennifer, Margaret, Esther, Grace, Kevin... I could go on. We were sent off with a beautiful song and were presented with beaded necklaces the women work so hard every day making. I look forward to sharing these meaningful necklaces, and the stories behind them, with my girlfriends when I return home.
So much love.
Jamie
Creating peace flags with the kids.
beautiful.
Simple pleasures.
Gina and myself speaking with the women of the Acholi tribe about their culture.
The beautiful paper bead necklaces made by the Acholi women.
Recapping an amazing 2 days.
