I finally got back to the village today! It was great to meet some new friends, and visit old ones! This refugee family ( below) from Congo just arrived last week, and I was able to take them some warm coats and clothes my home church had collected. In this family, there are two moms who are sisters, with 8 children between them. There are many Congolese coming now, having spent years in Rwanda and other parts of Africa in refugee camps. The moms have a long road ahead- but I am always amazed at how quickly the kids become " Americanized"... a mixed blessing !
It has been a few weeks since I had seen some of my friends, but even longer for others. It was a great day to catch up! I could hear my Burmese friend calling " teacher!" before she even opened the door, and my friend from Burundi greeted me warmly with " Hujambo!- I miss you", while her five children clamored around. Her oldest son- who was 4 and had no English when they first came-- is now in the second grade, and sounds like any kid growing up in America! Mom has definitely improved in her English as well- and it was fun to actually have a real conversation with her!
One last stop to a recently arrived Congolese mom of 8 to pass out the rest of the coats. They've been here almost a year- and now the kids are translating for mom in English! I also met some new Congolese families who have moved in across from them, having arrived about 4 months ago. The need for friendship and guidance is huge here. The opportunities to make a difference are endless!
