7/18/2012

Initial Review

It's been about 6 days since we have all left Kenya and returned home. Even so, there is still quite some digesting to do. I find it hard to put everything into a concise little blog post that explains it all perfectly. So much happened in such a short space timespan that even a 1,000 page book would not do justice to the time and energy that each event needs.

We traveled to Chwele with more money than we've ever had. Our plan was to buy land and get the dormitory started before the 'Mums' arrived. By God's goodness we managed to do just that. The land was not cheap due to sharp rises in the price over the last year or so. However, we are pleased with what we got for the price, and remain optimistic for the future in getting more land. The cost to lay the foundation of the dormitory wasn't cheap either. We decided to go for the bigger foundation that allow us to build up to 3 or 4 stories if need be in the future. This meant that the builders could finish the walls before we left but it will leave us in a good place in the future months and years. This progress, along with the schoolhouse, will take West Special School to a whole new level.

Aside from the construction side of things, the development of the children has been remarkable. They have put on some good weight since last (testimony to the hearty meals they've been getting), their learning skills have improved and there was a generally good atmosphere in the classroom and during play time. Although we don't have trained teachers in place at the moment, I was pleased to see the improved care and attention they give the kids compared to last year. The children now all have a new uniform, shoes, socks and underwear. It was a special moment to see the children walk home like real African children after receiving their uniform. I don't suppose many of us have seen children get so excited over the gift of a school uniform. Perhaps the children's perspective is one for us to emulate.

The ladies trip was nothing short of a resounding success. The whole idea of the trip was for the children to be cared for and loved, and to receive what every child should have, a loving pair of arms to be embraced by. The tears shed and the love administered, I believe, have changed the children's lives forever. On the ladies' last day, the children went home with springs in the their steps knowing that at least a small group of ladies from the UK and the USA love them dearly. No one can ever take that from them and we thank Father for that.

All this being said there is still a mountain to climb. The dormitory must be finished as soon as possible. The schoolhouse is on the brink of being finished and is in need of more funds. We need more classrooms and vocational training. More land, electricity and water is also imperative. The journey has only just begun. Although there is long way to go, we are thankful for how far we have come.

If you are interested in doing something about all of this please email:
westspecialschool@gmail.com

The following picture is students in their new school uniform.


2 comments:

  1. Wonderful report, James. Thank you, thank you, thank you for surrendering your heart to Jesus and His work. Blessings on you and Quince and babe.

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