Alex and Teddy took us to an orpanage about 45 minutes outside of town. We met the founder of the orphanage, Auntie Penny (Auntie and Uncle is used as a respectful term of endearment). She introduced us to four of the students, Charles, Susan, Beatrice, and Mugisha. The rest of the students were off to school for the day. They were neatly dressed in their pressed, cotton blue uniforms. We were greeted by their shining, bright smiles and shown around the orphanage. Their rooms were spotless with tightly made beds and dustless floors. Each bed had a personality trait that reflected its sleeper. We asked if they were required to clean their rooms daily, and Auntie Penny said that they did it on their own without being told to do so. I'm sure my parents and roommates would appreciate that! Auntie Penny went on to tell us that the orphans were usually found on the streets or in the back allies. The orphanage became a home for them to recieve help, food, a safe place to stay, and a community of friends and support.
After we looked around the orphanage, the 4 students gathered around as we started to ask questions. They politely went to go get chairs for us to sit in, and then one-by-one they came before us to speak. They told us how much the orphanage meant to them and that even though sometimes they missed the freedom of the streets, they knew the value of education, and understood that the orphange was a place of refuge and support. They loved school and were trying to seek leadership positions in their classes. With the World Cup right around the corner, they are anxious to begin watching and rooting on their favorite football teams. They told us that they wanted to go on to University to become 2 doctors, an accountant, and a judge. The wierd thing is, when they were talking to us, I felt as if they themselves were being held in front of a judge. With us sitting in high chairs, and them before us, I had an uneasy feeling. I turned to Michael and whispered, "This doesn't feel right." At one point, one girl was literally on her knees as she spoke. When she talked about how she didn't know where her family was or if they were still alive , she began to softly whisper as small tears rolled down her cheek. Teddy reached out to her and hugged her. She briefly told them that she too used to be an orphan and she understood their situations. She encouraged them to work hard and to do whatever it takes to get a strong education. "It's your ticket out, your way to go back to your communities and help your families." The kids began to smile at Teddy's wise words and gentle smile. With that, I could no longer "sit above" these wonderful students. I said, "You all take our chairs. We can sit on the floor! You guys are kings and queens, and we are your guests! Come sit on your throne!" All the kids thought we were crazy as Michael, Teddy, and I moved out of our chairs and sat on the hot, dusty concrete. They reluctantly sat down, but soon began to gleam in their newfound thrones, as if they were wearing golden crowns and royal cloaks. It was such a great feeling!
Later they sang two songs, we danced, and decided to become pen pals. I can't wait to begin writing them and seeing how they are doing. Right as we began to say goodbye, Michael nudged me and reminded me that Charles didn't have shoes that fit on. He had the brilliant suggestion that we buy him a new pair of shoes. We asked Auntie Penny how much it would cost, and she said 30,000 USX, a mere $15. We reached into our pockets and gave enough. Auntie Penny called Charles over, and told him that he would be getting new shoes soon. You should've seen the smile on his face. Teddy grabbed a piece of notebook paper and a pen. Charles put his foot on the piece of notebook as Teddy traced the figure of his foot to show the shoe dealer. Charles inspected it, and approved. On that sheet of paper lay the makings of his new pair of shoes... shoes fit for a king.
-Nick
Simon, Michael, Alex, on top of Marimbe Hill, where you can see beautiful views of Kampala.
Nick dancing with Susan and Beatrice Susan, Beatrice, Nick, Charles, Michael, Mugisha
View from the orphanage. It was such a nice day!
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