Life Update

Hey everyone!

I am sorry that it has been so long since I have posted. I started school in late August, and have been pretty busy. I only have a few classes left before I start full time student teaching! Actually, right now, I should actually be working on a project I present tomorrow, but I took a much needed break to share a few updates.

Update one:
As some of you know, I started sponsoring a precious little girl from Kenya named Jane. She is a beautiful girl, who is passionate about school and her family. I received my first letter last month, and broke into tears as I read her words. She said that she would be praying for me, and wishes me well. This adorable precious little gift from God is clearly a sister of mine in Christ, and praying for her everyday has helped me humble myself, but also has kept med connected to Africa. As Nairobi, Kenya experienced a terrorist attack this past weekend, I ask you to keep their nation in your prayers. Also, I just learned that Compassion International can also set up custom visits. It is now another goal of mine to somehow afford that someday so I can run to my little Jane, and be with her, hold her close, and pray with and for her.

Update two:
I spoke at our school's student led Sunday night worship. The topic of my talk was about forgiveness, thankfulness, and our adoption through Christ. Luckily, I was allowed to really focus this around my trip and my experience, and I had a lot of positive feedback. I have learned that one way to cope with my yearning for Rwanda is to talk about it, and share what God did with my life while I was there.

Update three: 
This is an update from my post in July. I still have been having a lot of issues with missing Rwanda and the people there. Somedays are a lot better than others, but some days it is hard to wake up and go through the day without physically aching and yearning for the place I left. When I work with my first grade students, I can't help but picture the children I left in Rwanda, and it hurts somedays. I'm not saying I don't love my students here, because I really really do, but it just kills knowing that I might not be able to see some of the students I left behind in Rwanda. Today, I received an email from one of the grade five students I taught divinity and morality to while in Rwanda. She wrote about how she was one of the top of her class this term, and how she wants me to come back and visit. I smiled one of the biggest smiles when I read the email, and one line just cut me to the core: "I miss you very very much and I love you so so much" If I could only be there to pick her up in my arms and tell her the same thing. This distance has been so difficult and I have really been struggling with it. Even though I love to have control and order, God has really shown me this year that I need more help than I think I do. So as hard as it is for me to do, I would like you, if you want, to keep me in your prayers. I would really appreciate it, and I know that even through this pain of missing Africa, God has a huge plan for me, and that this pain I am experiencing has a meaning. As it says in Psalm 30: 11-12, You have turned for me my mourning into dancing; you have loosed my sackcloth and clothed me with gladness,
¹² that my glory may sing your praise and not be silent. O Lord my God, I will give thanks to you forever!

Well, I must be getting back to work now. Thanks for taking the time to read this, and I hope to update you all a lot sooner than I did this time. Hope all is well.

In love, 

Leah 

I Saw What I Saw

It has officially been a month since I have been back from my life changing trip to Rwanda. I can't believe that a month has flown by so quickly, and not a day has gone by without my heart aching and yearning for Rwanda. Coming back, I knew that I would really miss Rwanda, but I have done really well so far keeping it together while I miss my home away from home. Well, that is until last night. 

Some of the most beautiful people I have ever met. 

Currently I am working as the Director of Youth Programming at Mount Carmel Family Bible Camp in Alexandria, Minnesota. This week we have been blessed to have Peder Eide, Christian musician, lead us and teach us about growing in our faith as families. Tonight, he talked about the importance of serving others, and shared about his family's love for Compassion. For those of you who have never heard of Compassion, it is an organization that strives to help release children from poverty while teaching them about the love of Jesus. Peder had our staff pass out packets of children around the world, and I found myself holding the packet of Jane from Kenya. Jane is 11 years old, participates in church activities, goes to school, and loves to play ball games. She lives in an area that is flagged as high risk for children rights violations, and she has been waiting 12 months to receive a sponsorship. As I stared at this beautiful child of God in my hands, the emotions started to flood. All I could think of was all the children I left behind, who I pray and think about daily. The tears started to well up, and then the song I Saw What I Saw by Sara Groves, who is actually coming to our camp this week as well, started to play. She actually wrote this song after she spent time in Rwanda. believe it or not, I had no idea of this until after I got back. In that moment, I knew that Miss Jane would be part of my life, and I am now going to officially be her sponsor.

While in Rwanda, her song really spoke to me. I listened to her song on repeat every day, and now that I am at camp, I still find myself listening to it. Once it started playing, the flood banks open, and for the first time since my trip, I wallowed. Rwanda has really taken a big chunk of me, and I'm not sure how long I can wait before I need to go back. I know that talking about it helps some, but it also makes me want to go back sooner. I know that last night was probably one of the first of many times where the tears will make their way in, but I know that I need to remember. 

I would like to end this post with the lyrics and video to Sara's song:

I saw what I saw and I can't forget it
I heard what I heard and i can't go back
I know what I know and I can't deny it

something on the road, cut me to the soul

your pain has changed me
your dream inspires
your face a memory
your hope a fire
your courage asks me what I'm afraid of
and what I know of love

we've done what we've done and we can't erase it
we are what we are and it's more than enough
we have what we have but it's no substitution

something on the road, cut me to the soul

I say what I say with no hesitation
I have what I have but I'm giving it up
I do what I do with deep conviction

something on the road, cut me to the soul

your courage asks me what I’m afraid of
your courage asks me what I am made of
your courage asks me what I’m afraid of
and what I know of love
and what I know of God

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lt_WpluguwE

The beginning of the end...

I have always known that goodbyes were hard, but I never thought they would be this hard. Yesterday marked the first day of saying goodbyes. We had our last day at the primary and tech school, which started the long goodbyes. 

Friday morning, we made a brief pitstop at the kindergarten school to say hello, and once again, we were greeted with some of the warmest smiles and laughs. We had just stopped by to drop off some photos, but the teacher insisted that we stayed and taught her class a song. After her class sang 2 songs to us, we then shared our song with them. It was fun to have such an impromptu teaching opportunity thrown at us, and the smiles of the children really warmed my heart.

After our brief kindergarten visit, it was time to head down to the primary school for our last day. We first met with the teachers of the school while the students had their short recess break. When we met with the teachers, they expressed how grateful they were for the time we had spent with them. Although we primarily worked with the children, the teachers said they learned so much from us. They appreciated the ideas we brought, but also enjoyed being able to listen to a "native" English speaker. Many begged us to come back, and for a very brief moment, all I could think about was never coming back to the United States and staying in Rwanda to teach forever. These teachers opened their classrooms to us, and gave us total control of their students. They trusted us, even when we had just met them. One teacher said that we have given them so much, but I can assure you that we received so much more than any of them could imagine.

This is my favorite teacher. She is one of the Primary 5 teachers, and her class was my absolute favorite!

We were able to take some photos, but then it was time to get back to class. This Friday, I was able to teach in all 3 of the Primary Grade 6 classes, and had such a blast. In my first class we made a paper chain for art, with each student writing or drawing what was important to them, and it was incredible to watch them work together to create the final chain. Each piece was individually beautiful, and the final result was astonishing. This made me really think about us as humans. We are all so beautifully individual with our own talents, gifts, and so much more. We can do great things, but when all of us come together, the final product is bigger and better than we ever could have imagined. 

In the next class, we did the life journey project once again. Again, I was so happy to see the events that students had added to their own personal life journey. Since these students were a bit older, I could tell that they had some extra experience to add, and was able to have some rally great conversations with them. My heart almost broke when one of the students randomly walked up to me while we were all working, and clung to me so tightly. She told me that she wished I would just stay forever. In all the power I had, I remained in a non-crying state, and realized that these goodbyes were going to be the hardest ones I have ever encountered. I have had to say many goodbyes, but these ones are different. It is hard to say goodbye because I know there is a chance that I might not be able to return. And if I do return one day, it won't be very soon. It is hard to say goodbye to these people who have given me so much insight into life and love and happiness and thankfulness, and I can tell that my the end of my last few days, I will have cried more than I ever have. 

Chatting it up about our families and life events :)

Me with the P6 B class!

We also taught computers, and did a fun lesson on writing acrostic poems about Rwanda. It was really fun to watch the kids work, and boy… they were very creative. During the lesson, I even had a visit from one of my favorite kindergartners.

Honestly.... what a cutie!

 Once our final lesson was done, it was time to walk home, and I made sure to have my last walk home with my favorite student here, Angal. Angal and I have walked home together every day while I have been here. She is a 2nd grade student, and has a passion for singing, smiling, and playing with her brothers and sisters at the orphanage. She gives the best hugs, and has a steel trap memory. She can remember everything I tell her! Angal promised that she would never forget me, and I made her a bracelet so she would have a little piece of me to hold on to. We had probably the longest hug goodbye ever, and as she walked away, I knew that she would always hold a place very close to my heart. She literally is my little "angel" who will always be with me. 

Me and Angal

Once we were done with the primary school, it was time to head to the tech school. We have had the honor of spending 3 hours with these students 4-5 days a week, and I have really learned so much from them. They are all high school aged, but have so much more knowledge, wisdom, and insight than any high school student I have ever met. Through debating, chatting, singing, and taking photos with them, I have created some amazing life long friendships. They have really shown me what it is like to be a young adult in Rwanda, and it has been so much fun to be with them. Our day was really spent relaxing and hanging out. One of the students wrote us a song, saying how much he has appreciated our presence, and wishing us blessings as we soon depart. Today we bent the rules and ended up staying about an hour past the time we usually leave, and goodbyes lasted for about 10 full minutes. As tears started to fall, and hugs were exchanged, I was also hopeful. These students are all going to make huge differences in this world, and I am so excited to see how they will continue to grow and prosper. Thankfully, they all have Facebook, so we will be able to stay in touch via the internet! 

Erica and I with some of our tech school friends

This is Joha. She and I really bonded at the tech school.

While at the tech school, we were all interviewed by a man making a documentary about SOS. he asked us about our emotions prior to coming to Rwanda, but also how we felt at the end, and what we have learned from this experience. His final question was, "What would you say to your pre-trip self if you had the chance?" I never had really though about this, and all that really could come out was, "Be ready to have your life changed and to always yearn for and love Rwanda."

Now thinking back to this, even though it was less than a day ago, it is true. Rwanda has changed me, and there is a huge part of my heart that has Rwanda stamped all over it. As the next days happen, and as goodbyes continue, I will remember that Rwanda has been one of the biggest blessings in my life, and I can't wait to share this experience with others, and hopefully return here someday.

With my love,

Leah

Our last walk home. What a fun group of kiddos!

Life is a Journey

This is Kevin :) I had a blast getting to know him during this trip! He was really excited about this activity! 

This week has turned out to be refreshing, thoughtful, and reflective, all wrapped into one. 

We are finally down to our last full days, and it blows my mind that I will be leaving this amazing country in a short 5 days. On Tuesday, I met with one of my favorite classes, and we had a lesson in divinity and morality. We have focused a lot on blessings, thankfulness, and showing love to our neighbors, but this week I wanted to shake things up a bit. Once verse that has been pivotal for me on this journey has been Jeremiah 29:11. It reads, "For I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord,  plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope."

Life is truly a journey, and the Lord is their guiding us. Although sometimes we approach moments that weaken our faith, He is still there guiding and loving us. This concept of a journey of faith has really been weighing on my mind, and I realized that it is a concept that even young children can talk about. So, I decided that we were going to make maps of our faith journey so far. I encouraged students to write about the times that strengthened their faith, times that the Lord provided, but also about events that they truly found as blessings in their life. I was once again stunned at the creativeness of the 5th graders, and enjoyed being able to listen to their stories about how they have met God and found God at work in their own lives. 

One student working on her map.

I also gave an example to my students about my faith journey. It obviously started with my birth, but it was a great experience to reflect on what has happened in my journey. Once item I added and thought about a lot was the role that my camp played in my faith life. Since 1997, my family has been attending Mount Carmel Family Bible Camp in Alexandria, Minnesota. Through countless hours of kids programming, songs, skits, talent shows, and so much more, I started to really fall in love with God and his role in my life. As a 10 year old, I would have never realized how important camp would be later on in my life as well. 

The summer after I graduated, I accepted a job as a camp counselor at Mount Carmel. Through teaching youth and high schoolers about Jesus' love and about surrendering to Christ, I learned more about myself and my love for the Lord. I also learned that I tend to be a control freak, and that I needed to start working on letting that go and surrendering it all up. I learned that friendships strengthen when you place Christ in the center, and I also learned that in a romantic relationship, God needs to be the focus. I met some of the best people ever, and created memories that still seem so vivid today. I ended up going on to work a second summer there, and now, after taking a summer off, I am going back to camp in a leadership role as a summer programmer. I have been so blessed to be given this opportunity, and I am so eager to see how God will use my life this summer for His glory.

This time around, camp might be a bit different due to the role I am in, but it will also be different because I am coming home and almost straight to camp after completely a very big experience in my life journey. Rwanda has made me think more about equality and social justice, about appreciation, about God's role in the world, and about knowing that what I have is enough. I am thrilled to be able to take this milestone in my journey and share with others. 

Although I am sad about only having a few days left, I am happy to know that I can share my story, and that my story might make a difference or make someone think. I can't wait to see all of you within a week!

With my love,

Leah :)

Time Flies When...

I can't believe it. In 7 days and a few hours, I will be heading to the airport to board my first plane on my journey back to the United States. My time here in Rwanda has flown by so quickly, and I can't believe that I only have a few days left here. While here, I have learned so much about life, about myself, and about others. I have had a lot of time to reflect on social justice, on education, on faith, and so much more.

For some reason, I am feeling quite reflective today, so I am going to share some of my thoughts with you all. (Brief note… Some of these questions, 1-3, were posed to us by our professor. He has a great way of getting us thinking!)

Question 1) What is it al about? I came to Rwanda, but what have I gained?

There are many things that I have learned and gained from this trip. One realization, not shocking me whatsoever, is that I live such a spoiled life. I never need to worry about how I will find my own meal or where my water will come from. I sometimes take school for granted. The fact that my whole family is alive and well also slips to the back burner of my mind. I realized that I need to really appreciate what I do have, but also realize that what I have is enough, in fact it is more than enough. 

This makes me think even more in-depth about education. I have learned that I am so blessed and lucky to have the opportunity to go to school. Something that has been so heart wrenching is that there are so many children in Rwanda who are not able to afford to go to school, or who have circumstances that prevent them from attending. It makes me think a lot about my call in my life to teach. Although I love being near to family, maybe I am being called to take my gift of teaching and bring it somewhere else. Being taken out of my comfort zone to focus on the equality of education…. perhaps a new life focus? I only hope that I can strive to make education equal for all children globally and locally. 

Question 2) Why Rwanda? Couldn't I have learned this somewhere else? 

I think that the distance involved in this trip has really allowed me to separate myself from the norm and from what is truly comfortable in my own life. I have learned that being pushed outside of that comfort zone allows more growth and reflection. I think that Rwanda also has allowed me to realize the importance of faith and education in life. In terms of education, Rwanda has shown me how valued education is, but also encourages me to stir up the same passion for learning in my future students. In terms of faith, Rwanda also allows me to see how God can and does provide even in the midst or aftermath of something terrible. Through many of the conversations I have had, it has been evident that faith is the cornerstone that many people build their hole life upon. In such a tragic occurrence, like the Rwandan genocide, God still provides and provided beauty. Even though it might be hard to realize sometime, He is always there, loving, providing, and encouraging. 

Question 3) What have we learned from using public transportation?

Public transportation has been quite the learning experience for me! Being able to move around and deeply immerse myself into a part of daily culture has been interesting. Through these trips, I have learned a lot about the connections that can stem when you are with others, even if you can't communicate with the same language. I learned that I am also privileged to be able to travel at all. On these trips we see many men, women, and children who carry large loads on their heads or in their arms. It would be so easy to pop on a bus, but it is possible that those individuals may not be able to pay. Something that seems so minuscule is actually such a privilege, once again reminding me that what I have is enough. Buses have also shown me the sense of community, as people work together and move around. I think that despite all the sweating and cramped spaces, I love the public transportation and the opportunities I have had to experience it!

Question 4) So what now? What is next for me? 

So what now…. What a question. Once I return, I will have a few days at home to touch base before I leave for a summer at camp. At camp, I plan on sharing my story with as many people as possible, but that isn't enough. Rwanda has left such a powerful imprint on my heart and life, and I know that I will never be separated from this place. Last week I finished reading the novel Running the Rift, by Naomi Benarson. This trip, and this book in connection with this trip, has made me think deeper about social justice. My view of social justice has started to stem from the idea of social responsibility. I know have the awareness of social injustice in Rwanda. I have seen it at the orphanages, in downtown Kigali, in Butare, and in Musanze. I have seen it, and I also know some of the steps that need to happen in order to combat those injustices. I am aware, which means that my social responsibility is intertwine with social activism. My next step requires me to take the logical step forward; I am obliged to act.

As it says in Psalm 32:8, "I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my eye upon you."

I have spent hours and hours praying about this, and I feel like I am being called and guided to help my brothers and sisters at the Deaf School in Musanze. As I work this summer, I am also going to be working to set up some type of fundraising/scholarship program to help the school. Like I mentioned in an earlier blog post, many of the children have been abandoned, leaving them to really fend for themselves. Many are not able to pay the school fees, but are still welcomed in. Since there is a lack in funds, that mean the school also suffers a bit. I want to help change this. Every student I met warmed my soul, and they were all one of the biggest blessings in my life. I want to be able to give so much back to them, even though I will never be able to give them as much as they have given me. I am excited to see how this process will go, and I will keep you all updated once I start and as I continue on.

Gosh.... I love them so much!

Well, I only have a few more minutes to write, but I hope to keep you all posted as my journey begins to conclude. 

 

With my love,

Leah

I'm on a boat!

I'm on a boat! 

This weekend, Saturday afternoon, we departed for Kibuye, a town near Lake Kivu. Lake Kivu is on the western part of Rwanda, and is very close to the Congo. Our bus ride their was pretty crazy and curvy, but as soon as the lake was in sight, my breath was taken away.

Lake Kivu is one of the largest lakes in Africa, by far the biggest one in Rwanda, and actually shares water with Congo. The water sits among the rolling hills, and islands are scattered about. Once we reached our hotel, I was amazed with beauty. To compare the scenery to something a little better known, I would compare it to the boundary waters in northern Minnesota. The night sky is clear, and I have never seen starts so brightly. Although we had an agenda for Saturday, I had a feeling that this weekend would bring some well needed rest and relaxation. We had dinner, which was really served in Rwandan time, only a hour and a half past the time we ordered, and had some good laughs. I share my room with Brittany, it was nice to sit and chat before falling asleep. The connections made on this trip have been awesome. Going to a brand new place with people you don't entirely know was a bit worrisome at first, but I am glad that I have been able to know and get to bond with the incredible ladies on this trip. Knowingly or not, they have all made some type of impact on me, and it will be so strange to not be with them constantly learning, teaching, and exploring once we return home to the United States.

This was the view from our hotel balcony area!

Saturday morning started off a little rough. I somehow got sick through the night. Waking up sick was one of my worst nightmares, but after some quality time getting to know what the hotel bathroom looked like, I got myself ready, took some medicine, and headed off to breakfast. At breakfast, we were told that there was a surprise waiting for us; we were going to go on a boat tour of Lake Kivu! I was ecstatic, and prayed and hoped that I would be able to maintain a decent level of health as we headed out. 

We met our guide, John, around 10 a.m., and started to walk into the main part of town where is boat was. During our walk, I couldn't help but take in the beauty that has been surrounding me. The nature is outstanding, and the lake is so peaceful, quiet, and serene. This whole trip has really allowed me to become aware of the huge role God has played in making this world. I stand in awe thinking about how every hill, lake, stream, island, and tree has it's place. This beauty is outstanding.

Our morning transportation

Once we approached the shore, a little wooden boat came into view. We all got on, and suited up in our wonderful orange life jackets. I felt as if we were on the lake forever, but I wanted to stay there. I wanted to continue to take in the beauty. I ended up sitting near the back of the boat next to Erica. Like I said before, each woman on this trip has influenced me. Today, Erica and I had amazing conversations about growing up, families, changes, and what we find to be important in life. We made connections through conversation, and even joked about taking shameless selfless on the boat and singing the song "I'm on a boat" and laughing. 

Shameless Selfie :) Loving the lake!

After about 45 minutes, our guide stopped us on this strange island. I kept hearing him say something about birds…it turns out that I was wrong. As we started to pursue a trail, my mind went back to the countless boundary water trips I have been part of. the terrain was anything but straight, the tree branches seemed to enjoy hitting my face, and I had to be aware of every step. We started to slow down, and I could hear the man who drove our boat slapping two rocks together. Turns out the island we were on is known as the "bat island." Within a few seconds of the slapping noise, hundreds of bats started to fly and swoop. I really hate bats, but it was actually pretty cool to see hundreds upon hundreds of bats flying at once, until they started to poop on us. 

Those are a small fraction of the number of bats we saw.

We spent a few more minutes on the island, and then departed. We faced some major waves, but the crisp, cool water felt like a God-send on our warm bodies. Erica and I laughed and laughed as we took on a ton of water, but really enjoyed ourselves! After about an hour, we finally landed on the shore. Our guide kept mentioning that he would love to stay in contact and have us visit again. Day by day, hearing this becomes hard to hear. I would love to stay here longer and to visit next year, I really would. But…. I have school, and work, and a family I miss, and not to mention I don't have the money to just fly across the ocean to a different location. Communication would be an amazing way to stay connected, but it is hard knowing that there is a high likelihood that I won't be returning any time soon. As we have entered the last 10 days of this trip, I have a feeling that saying all the goodbyes is going to become difficult and almost painful. What I need to keep in mind though, is that I still have days left to live it up here in Rwanda, and that I will ALWAYS have the memories from this trip. 

We started a long walk up the hill to a hotel that we were going to eat lunch at, andI really enjoyed just walking in a landscape so beautiful. We finally reached the restaurant, and sat down to order. I felt my sickness rushing back into my body, and felt as if I was going to pass out. After a wait that seemed like forever, a full bottle of water finally in my stomach, and countless minutes of holding my cold Sprite bottle to my hot forehead our food came. I gobbled it down pretty quickly, and was starting to feel a lot better! We continued our walk back into town, about a 30 minute walk or so, and I had a super conversation about tennis with Erica. It was fun to have some of those memories flood back! :) We stopped to buy some water, side note: when I get home I can't wait to drink water out of anything that is not a bottle, and I started feeling sick again. Luckily we were only 10-15 minutes away from the hotel, so as soon as we got back, I hunkered down for a nice nap! 

Kibuye has served as an excellent place to sit and reflect about my time here in Rwanda. The still waters and the lack of the city noise has been so relaxing, but has also allowed me to start thinking about what I am going to say to people when I return home. I have often though, "How will I respond when someone asks me about my trip?" How can I possibly condense 36 amazing days into a quick response? How can I tell everyone about the amazing students and individuals I have met? How will I explain the different socioeconomic status' without painting a broad picture? How will I do this? Thankfully, I still have a few days to find out, which I am sure will come with even more amazing experiences. 

The sunrise this morning :) 

I can't wait to share my story with you. 

With my love,

Leah 

A brief note…

Wednesday we had a new experience! We spent the morning and the first part of the afternoon with the house mothers and aunties at SOS. House mothers and aunties are the amazing women who live and take care of the children at the orphanage.  Each household has about 10 children who attend the primary school. The mothers and aunties cook, clean, and provide for the students. 

Wednesday morning we were all paired up with a mother/auntie to do some of the morning work. I was paired up with a wonderful auntie, and after sharing a cup of morning tea, she told me that we would be preparing the meal for the kids. 

I spent the first hour or so peeling potatoes with a knife, honestly like a full sack of potatoes. I then chopped potatoes and carrots, and onions, and peppers, all while bonding with the house auntie that was working beside me. It was really fun to work with this wonderful woman for five hours. Although we could only slightly communicate, since she did not know a lot of English and I only know a few words in Kinyerwanda, we really created a bond that is hard to describe. :)

Today we were able to meeting the teachers at the Learning Center. They specialize in working with students on their English. We went out to lunch with them, and had some wonderful conversation. Then, I went into town with my professor and one other student. We are headed to Lake Kivu on Saturday, so we went to purchase the bus tickets. Afterwards, we went and had some coffee :)

While sitting and waiting for coffee, I noticed this huge book that was sitting ton the coffee table. Since I tend to embrace my curiosity, so I cracked the book open. Even though it was in French, I was able to pick out a few words. This book that was a at least 4 inches thick was the list of victims of the genocide. Each page had an abundance of names, peoples date of birth and in some instances the date they died, their sex, and the way that they were killed. I had known that the genocide claimed many many victims, but seeing it in this concrete and descriptive way really gave a name and numbers and thoughts to the actual people.  I was really taken aback, but I also think that it is something that maybe more people should see. I pains me to think that some people do not believe that it happened, and maybe this book can change minds, or at least get people thinking about it. 

Well, I hope to have more to say tomorrow. Friday is going to be a little different, we are running on a different schedule, so I am curious to see what will happen. I hope to update soon :)

With love,

Leah

Musanze: Football, Dancing, and Friends to Remember

Wow. What a weekend! This past Friday (night), Saturday, Sunday, and Monday the group was in Musanze. We boarded the bus to Musanze Friday afternoon, and I was full with anticipation to see what the weekend would bring. 

Everything started off with the most beautiful drive yet! The road was super curvy, and I felt like I was on a roller coaster for almost the full 2 hours, but the beauty of the rolling hills, the mountains, and the lush green scenery outweighed everything. Something that I especially enjoyed about the drive was the fact that I was next to the cutest child. She and her mother were speaking Kinyerwanda, and showed no signs that they were able to speak English. The little girl seemed curious as to who this white person was next to her, so I, being the future teacher that I am, found ways to entertain her and communicate with her. We had fun looking through picture books that I have on my Nook, thank goodness for all the times that I have needed to have books to read with Scott's niece and nephew, discovered how my watch came on and off, how my backpack zipper works, and what funny faces we could both make. During this time, she became a little worn out and finally fell asleep cuddled next to me. Her mother and I exchanged kind smiles, and even though we couldn't speak the same language, there was communication there. I realized that I love how one glance can really communicate so much, and I am happy to say that the mother and the little girl really did make a connection with me. Even though it was beautiful outside of the windows, the love that formed and interactions I had were the cherries on top of the sundae. 

Once we had reached Musanze, we headed on up to Elie's house. Elie, which is short for Elijah,  is part of the Fair Children/Youth Foundation, which provides programs, The Wisdom School, The Deaf Children School, and also provides psychosocial support to widows and children who are the head of households, usually due to the death of parents. Elie  has poured so much of his life and time into these programs, and he and his wife open up their home to volunteers, but also support and pay the school fees for many students. It was so interesting to hear Elie talk about what he believes will help Rwanda grow strong. He believes that strong women and strong children are one of the most important factors in terms of growth in Rwanda. He believes that strong women raise and teach strong children, and those strong children will change the future. This conversation with Elie made me really think about my life in terms of two ways.

Way 1) Giving. Elie and his wife have given so much to help others. I have so much in this life, but how much of it to I actually give back to others? When I can go to school everyday, there are those who can't afford to go to school or who have circumstances that inhibit their ability to go to school. While I sit over happy and surrounded by a abundance of "stuff" why don't I give more? If we were all to even give a fraction of what we have, we could change the world. We could provide schooling for so many children, we could provide a meal for those who are hungry. We could do so much!

Way 2) Strong women = Strong children. Thinking back to growing up, and now, I am constantly reminded that I have such a strong and confident mother in my life. She has taught me how to love, how to serve, how to share, and so much more. I have also been around strong grandmothers and aunts and cousins and teachers and friends. They have all aided me to be a strong individual. They have played a role in teaching me about life. Now that I am almost done with school, I am, hopefully, going to be that strong role model for many students. When I can provide all students will a positive role model, I can hopefully teach them why they are strong and how to really make a difference. :)

This weekend really brought a lot of thoughts to mind, and in my next post, I hope to share some more reflection! 

Once Elie was finished telling us an abbreviated life story, we lost power! It was like the perfect ending to a story. We all sat in darkness…pure darkness. Elie's son  searched for a candle, and in about 3 minutes, we regained sight as the lights popped back on. What a start to our trip! We then sat down for dinner, and it was hands down my favorite meal we have had so far. I went to bed excited for what Saturday was going to bring. 

Saturday morning we went into town for the morning. In hindsight, we probably should have stayed at Elie's for about another 45 minutes. Every last Saturday of every month, the cities in Rwanda have a clean up day. Everyone closes up shop, and the city is cleaned. What an extraordinary concept! Something I have realized while in Rwanda is how important the whole body of people is. People are always willing to lend a hand, a smile, or encouragement. This clean up day was yet another example of how everyone came together for the better of the country of Rwanda. 

Once shops finally opened, we had lunch, and then it was time for us to depart for the Deaf School. This aspect of the trip was one portion that really made me think about coming on this trip. This year, I did take a course of American Sign Language and Deaf culture, and I am fascinated with figuring out ways to communicate with all people, even if they aren't able to fully hear me. In In Rwanda, deafness is considered to be a horrible ailment. If you are a person who is deaf, you are basically worthless in the eyes of society. Many are not able to work because they can not communicate through speech, and there a instances where children are disowned due to their deafness. When I learned about this, I was heart broken. I couldn't even begin to imagine being fully disowned due to something I had no control over. Even worse, it was hard to image being by myself with a disability that is looked down upon so much. With all of this in mind, it really shows how important the deaf school is. 

When we arrived at the deaf school, we were welcomed with so much joy and enthusiasm. Much to my surprise, it turns out that Rwandan Sign Language is basically the same as American Sign Language. When I was able to say hello and sign my name and where I was from, eyes lit up with excitement to the fact that I, the one person in our group of seven, could communicate and understand what they were signing. There smiles lit, and I instantly had at least 10 students trying to sign to me at once. I knew, at that instant, their faces shining, and hands ready to communicate, that my life would be forever changed by them.

Just sharing some love!

We were then lead to their greeting hall, where all of the students gathered to introduce themselves, but to also give us all a sign name. After we all received our names, the students sang a song for us. The way they did this was through dance and signing at the same time. Since many people who are deaf can sense vibrations through sound waves, there was one loud drum that pounded to keep the beat as the students showcased their talent. They all put so much passion into their signs and dance, and the joy they had could be felt. I had to choke down the tears as they smiled and laughed and danced, and I felt so moved. After one song, they did a dance that they had learned last year, the electric slide, and each of us had a student pull us up to dance with them. Yet again, music had connected me to another person without any words being exchanged. 

These are some of my favorite kiddos at the deaf school . They followed me wherever I went!

Once we finished the song, we were taken on a tour of the school. Since many of the students have been abandoned by parents, they are not able to pay the school fees. Many of the students are still allowed to stay and attend the school, but that means that there is a severe amount of work that needs to be done at the school, as well as a lot of images that were hard to see. There is one class room for each grade, and the supplies they have are so minimal. There is one light to light the large concrete classroom, and most of the learning aides are hand drawn posters. Even so, every student had so much pride in their classroom. They were excited to show us there space. What they had brought them so much joy, and my heart ached knowing that they could have so much more and that it would be easy for me to give money or supplies, but yet I hadn't. I think the hardest to see was their living quarters. All of the boys have one large room and all of the girls have one. What was most heart breaking to see was the fact that in one of the rooms, there were only 2 mosquito nets. Each room has at least 40 students. Those 2 nets could only protect 2-4 students max. In a country where malaria is prevalent, and where the medication to cure it is often too expensive for people to buy, mosquito nets are usually the one form of protection people can afford. One net, usually around $10, can aid in preventing someone of contracting malaria. The fact that there were only two…. I couldn't believe it. Yet… the students were filled with happiness for this place they called home. These loving individuals who were so proud deserve everything that I could possibly give. I think I may have found a new passion, figuring out a way that I can help them all, even when I return  to the United States (more words to come about this soon)!

We returned to the school on Sunday, and ended up playing a huge game of football with them. I failed miserably, since they were so amazing, but had such an amazing time. It was hard to say goodbye to them, and it took all that I had to not cry as I finally said my goodbyes, gave many hugs, and signed to each one how glad I was to have met them. My dream is to come back and see them, and learn more from them!

This is David. David and I became very quick friends! He even ended up asking me to be his girlfriend, but I ended up saying no. Regardless, he made a big impact on my life!

My feet after a long day of playing football, and walking around. Sidenote... those are not tan lines, they are dirt lines!

Monday, we visited Wisdom primary school and the Wisdom nursery school. We had fun getting to meet a few students, and it was fun to watch them play and show us their favorite songs and dances. We then went out to lunch and met up with a woman named Jean. Jean is originally from New York, and ended up starting a NGO in Rwanda called Ubushobozi. The NGO is a collection of women who come together to sew, and really have a family together. We were then able to meet the women, and they danced for us, and once again, for the second time this weekend, found ourselves dancing with the women, laughing, and really enjoying ourselves. After dancing, we hit up their shop, and I bought a great purse from a young lady who was actually one of the first women in the organization. These women were so willing to take us in as brief family members for the afternoon, and shared so much love and happiness with us. 

Some of the kiddos at the Wisdom Nursery School

Me and the wonderful lady who made my purse!

All in all…. this weekend change my life. I don't necessarily know how to put it into words as to how, but when I  am back in the US I will try my hardest if you want to sit down and talk with me. Well, I must be heading out. 

Love and miss you all!

-Leah :)

A glimpse into Rwanda

I don't have any really exciting news for all of you, and since I have a good solid chunk of time this morning, I thought I would try and upload a few pictures so you can see more of what it is like here. :)

Coming to Rwanda meant that I had the opportunity to finally get a stamp in my passport! Here I am with my first stamp, and with Nibblet, our adorable Concordia mascot for the trip!

As many of you know, we had to make a day long pit stop in Brussels. I loved being able to see another place on this journey! Here is a picture charting our endeavors of the pit stop.

Rwanda is one of the most beautiful places I have ever been, even when it is cloudy! I don't think that I will ever forget the view I wake up to in the morning. 

Rwanda is known as the Land of 1,000 hills. I personally think it is closer 50,000 hills! Here is one of the hills we walk multiple times a day from our rooms, to the school, and to our dining hall.

In one of my early posts, I talked about the extreme love I have for eating passion fruit, or Rwanda, maracuja. Mom and dad, prepare to help me find some when I get back to the United States!

I loved visiting Cards From Africa during our first weekend here. I couldn't help but chuckle and think that this is what the office room in our house looks like after my mother and I go to town making things! I can see some resemblance! 

Here is one of the cutest little kindergarteners I have ever met! I had a ton of fun singing songs with her the other day! She loved to sing "The Lion Sleeps Tonight.

Just another kindergarten kiddo :) 

One thing that has been slightly different about my time here in Rwanda is that I sleep with a mosquito net every single night. At first, it did feel a bit odd. I felt a little closed in, and I was always worried that my net would somehow come undone while sleeping. I would spend a few minutes every night making sure everything was perfectly tucked in. Now, I have some experience, and it is a super speedy process!

Here is another quick peak so you can see another area of hilliness in Rwandan life. 

This little gem was at the sewing NGO that we visited this past Tuesday. She was so shy, but had the most adorable smile!

Here is my last photo for the day. I can't believe how amazing this experience has been so far. I love all the people I have been able to meet, and will truly miss every one of them. So, for my last photo of the day.... I can't help but give you another picture of yet another adorable little blessing! P.S. I apologize for how sweaty I look. I think yesterday may have been the hottest day we have had here!

I look forward to posting more pictures, and hopefully soon! This weekend we will actually be traveling to Musanze, another part of the country, so I will be computer less for a few days. While there, we are going to be visiting the Wisdom Primary School and the School for the Deaf. I am excited to see what this journey will bring! I will try to catch you all up on our activities as soon as I return! 

With love,

Leah :) 

A NGO kind of day

Today was full of adventure. We met our awesome guide for our NGO visits at 9 a.m. We decided that we were going to take public transportation instead of calling a taxi. I have written about public transportation before, and since then, things haven't really changed. Traffic is crazy, fast, busy, and hot, but the change this time around is that I am actually starting to enjoy it. My first few rides I would grip to my seat and pray that we wouldn't hit the person running through the traffic or the motorcycle making a quick pass around us. Now, I can take it in, and I actually really enjoy it. I even sat in the front seat, a challenge I NEVER thought I would take. 

After multiple bus changes and a decent walk, we reached our first NGO. At this NGO there are women who are amazing seamstresses who make headbands, purses, aprons, table runners, hats, etc. Their work was beautiful, and the fabrics are varied with different patterns and colors. The women were all so kind, and so willing to show us their work, but also to smile at us, laugh with us, and even to sit through 2 minutes of group picture taking. The women next to me hugged me tight, said she was blessed to meet me, and welcomed me back whenever I like. Even though we were with them for a short time, they brightened my day, and made me wish that I could spend a lifetime getting to know them and learning from them.

Some of the ladies :)

We then took a quick break, and headed on our way to our second NGO. At this NGO, there is a group of men who make products out of cow horn. I was stunned to see the beauty of craftsmanship, but also the connection they all have with each other. This group was created by bringing street boys together to focus on a craft skill. It was clear, even though I couldn't always understand what they were saying, that they were a close-knit group of individuals. Although most of their inventory was currently not at the site, they shared their work with us, and invited us back next Tuesday to see the whole cow horn process take place. We are still deciding if we can, and I really hope we will be able to! 

Unfortunately, our time at the NGOs took a bit longer than expected, so we were not able to visit the primary school today. I won't lie, I loved the NGOs, but I really did miss hanging out with the kiddos. Even more than teaching, I missed the walk back from school, when I have 2 girls who always take me by the hand, ask me questions, and share about their day. I felt slightly incomplete without them today, andI felt like there might be a small sadness that would follow me for part of the day. We had lunch quickly, and then it was time to head back to my room before leaving for the tech school. As I was walking, I heard a voice yelling, "Teacher Leah! Teacher Leah!" When I turned around, low and behold, one of my little girls that I walk with started sprinting up the hill to me. Automatically a smile came across my face and I started to walk to meet her. She continued running and running, until finally she collided into me with the biggest bear hug I have ever experienced. She said, "Teacher Leah, I missed you today! I am so happy to see you now. How are you today?"

Wow… honestly. Wow. I am in love with the children here. Beyond in love actually. This little girl's love and enthusiasm for her friendship with me blew me away, ad still continues to. I am really starting to worry about how much I will end up missing every little smile, every little hug, every little "I am fine", and every little laugh that I hear from so many children every day. 

I have been so blessed to work with all of them, and I am pretty positive that I will miss them every day for the rest of my life. They have taught me so much as well. They have taught me love, kindness, faithfulness, and thankfulness. Even though I am there teaching them something every week day, I think I am learning more than I every thought I would. Through this teaching, I can tell that there is a transformation happening. I can't wait to see what the next 21 days will bring. 

With my love, 

Leah