MY STAY ( WRITTEN BY HELEN GALVIN)
I didn't know what to expect when I first arrived. As my first time really travelling and with being on my own it was all rather daunting. As much as I tried to avoid it, all the images that are conjured up by the stereotypes and misconceptions surrounding the words 'orphanage' and even 'Africa' were rushing through my mind. Yet I am so glad to say that I have never felt more at home and my ill informed misconceptions were exactly that.
Even with a big language barrier and being surprisingly incapable of simple household tasks I really feel like I belong in this family. And it truly is a family, a rather large one at that. It is a place overflowing with love and laughter that has completely brought out the inner child in me.
It is also truly inspiring to see someone's love-centred vision become a reality for so many and to see first hand the impact that it has. The fact that the vision is constantly expanding and they're tirelessly seeking more for the children, reinforces the selfless nature of the people in this organisation. It's so refreshing and heart warming to see/be a small part of.
Being here has given me some invaluable experiences and taught me so much from how to milk a cow, Gertrude's wavy dance moves and even giving me a acute sense of rhythm! We're still working on washing clothes, basic Swahili and kanga tying but we'll get there!
I don't say this lightly but the embrace I've received at Karibu Nyumbani, by the adults and children alike, is one that I will always cherish and I hope that I can bring this warmth and love I have felt to people I encounter in my life. I feel that a part of me will always be here and I hope and pray I have the opportunity to return. I couldn't be more thankful.
Even with a big language barrier and being surprisingly incapable of simple household tasks I really feel like I belong in this family. And it truly is a family, a rather large one at that. It is a place overflowing with love and laughter that has completely brought out the inner child in me.
It is also truly inspiring to see someone's love-centred vision become a reality for so many and to see first hand the impact that it has. The fact that the vision is constantly expanding and they're tirelessly seeking more for the children, reinforces the selfless nature of the people in this organisation. It's so refreshing and heart warming to see/be a small part of.
Being here has given me some invaluable experiences and taught me so much from how to milk a cow, Gertrude's wavy dance moves and even giving me a acute sense of rhythm! We're still working on washing clothes, basic Swahili and kanga tying but we'll get there!
I don't say this lightly but the embrace I've received at Karibu Nyumbani, by the adults and children alike, is one that I will always cherish and I hope that I can bring this warmth and love I have felt to people I encounter in my life. I feel that a part of me will always be here and I hope and pray I have the opportunity to return. I couldn't be more thankful.
