Siku Njema - A Good Day

Today was a good day. I was able to be part of something good. My part was being a connection and a driver.

In the past month, I've been a part of a number of different things, besides my usual work leading an education project for kids. I've met two different groups of visitors from various countries - some only here for a few days. Sometimes even these brief connections with people can be ever so meaningful.

Today I was able to help a young man get a wheelchair - his first ever. If he's on a smooth surface, he can maneuver himself around, set his brakes or get going again. He's stronger with one hand than the other, so he'll take some time figuring out how to really get going. Even when he's being pushed around, the dignity of being able to sit upright and watch the world, rather than being carried like a child swaddled on his mother's back reminds me of why I am here, to listen, to help where I can, and to celebrate the joys in life that come in spite of the struggles.

One group of visitors came to help construct a house. I was able to pitch in for one day & got my first experience of local construction by hand! We literally passed globs of mud from one person to the next into the house, then packed it between rocks for the walls, then sealed the wall by throwing mud at it.

Preparing the mud - right next to the house.

The house

One of the volunteers showing us how it's done. Rocks, then add mud.

Due to my height, I was assigned the top part of the wall

One other treat in the past month was going to a nearby national park with coworkers. We stayed at a lodge right at the edge of the park with a waterhole, where the elephants and other animals came for a drink. It was amazing.

Surreal!

Yes, that is an elephant dropping!

Waterfalls are always a favorite spot of mine.

I also celebrated being another year older and know how very blessed I have been. Thanks to all of you for being part of my life.