A YEAR AGO at this time, I was having the reoccurring dream of walking through St. Mary's turquoise gate with Brooklyn students. Seriously. In my dream, I couldn't see who they were, but I knew they were from Brooklyn, and I had the same dream over and over. This led me to send an email to my principal and assistant principal. I knew without their blessing, I wouldn't even consider the idea. Even though this project is not a "school trip", I needed their support. They gave it to me immediately. Then I asked the Brothers at the orphanage what they thought, and they sent me back emails with a resounding YES. When I sat down with Darren and Kahlil's parents, I didn't know what to expect. After giving as much information as I could, I told them to think about it for two weeks and get back me before the new school year. In both cases, they said they didn't need time. When I wrote an email out to my friends and family, and when the parents began fundraising, the task of raising $6,000 seemed enormous. Yet little by little, people responded with enthusiasm. Little by little, word spread and people (many who were once strangers) offered to help us get vaccines, Swahili lessons, funding, and supplies. We ended up with three diant duffel bags stuffed to the brim (in addition to our own bags), all the boy's expenses covered, and $750 to purchase supplies for the boys at the orphanage. It all kind of blows my mind, and is a testament to the idea that when things are right....they work, they happen...people come together.
TODAY, our departure day, has finally arrived after a year of planning, and anticipation. Every step of the way has been met with solid ground and for that reason, I have complete faith that the next 17 days are going to go smoothly.
I feel a healthy bunch of nerves, but my spirit is calm. The responsibility I feel is great-- I don't know exactly how to mentally prepare for it, except to take each moment as it comes. I foresee the most challenging part of this experience for me is going to be the next three days.
Although I've planned this trip as carefully as possible, I understand I am in control only to a certain extent. Darren and Kahlil are going to have their own experiences, and I need to stand back and let them unfold. For that reason, I know I need to continually remind myself not to say too much, and not to meddle. My hope is that Darren and Kahlil find patience and strength they don't know exist within themselves. At the same time, I also recognize that we may have a few "break downs" along that path, and I am prepared for that. From my own experience, falling apart is part of finding yourself. I remember the first time I traveled- I was "alone" and there were a few times I broke down completely. But when I came to the other side of that emotional state, the freedom and power I felt gave me a whole new perspective. New Eyes.
We should arrive in Nairobi around 10pm (3pm EST) on FRIDAY. We'll spend the night at Anna's house and head to Nyeri first thing in the morning.
"I See with New Eyes"....that was something that stuck in my mind when I lived in Ghana for five months in 2003. I had my headmaster there write it down in Twi. Me d'ani fofro ahu. I kept it in my wallet for five years. Then when I was is Kenya, I wrote it down again, this time in Swahili. Naona na Macho Mapya. Just like this project, that statement has evolved in meaning, and is bigger now than my own experience.
I'll admit I'm a bit tired.....the last few days my mind has been over-active and I've had trouble sleeping. But don't get me wrong.....I am beyond excited. Yesterday, while walking to buy a poncho, I realized I had a huge smile on my face. It's because tomorrow at 3pm, two worlds will meet face to face, hand to hand....and I simply cannot wait.
Let's go.
Love,
Hannah
ps. They probably won't be able to write until Monday, but the boys' blog addreses are
Keep an eye on us.
I'm sooo excited for you all. I hope this experience/ trip will lead to many more trips and experiences of seeing with new eyes... One who has not seen or had the experience of actually being in Africa cannot really grasp what it means to see with new eyes... We who have touched and been touched by Africa's love/ beauty in person have a duty I believe to at least tell our story... Which is why your blog and the boys blogs are important... Enjoy your times all of them good or not so good... See you when you return with New Eyes! Love and Joy to you all... Semelle
ReplyDeleteThis is a very exciting time. I believe you are are either on your way or in Nyeri by now. Prayerfully you are not too tired and have gotten some rest. May you all enjoy your experiences of the day. DeAnna
ReplyDeleteDeAnna- know that your notary practically got us on the plane in NYC....thanks again.
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