Two Pineapples and a bag of Mangoes

This is Joyce. She came to see us a few weeks ago while we were visiting the Luwero Community Learning Center that we built in June 2018. Last year she was awarded a Teach the Children scholarship, and she wanted to tell us thank you and show us the progress she’s made in her academic performance. When she walked up to Dickson and me, she knelt in gratitude and took our hands in hers – and my eyes leaked a little.

The headmistress of the school that Joyce attends told us that Joyce’s caretaker (her parents have both passed away, so an older woman cares for her) was on her way to the Learning Center as well. A few minutes later a woman who looked to be in her late 60’s walked in from outside, soaking wet. She had come from deep in the village a few miles away, through a rainstorm, to bring us two pineapples and a small bag of mangoes – her way of expressing her deepest gratitude. We found out that she takes care of a few children – to whom she is not related – and does everything she can to keep them in school. The Teach the Children scholarship that was awarded to Joyce greatly relieved the financial and emotional burden she carried. She did not speak any English, but she handed me the fruit, and gave me the warmest hug. My eyes filled with tears as our hearts spoke to each other and said what words could not.

To those who have offered their time, energy, prayers, and monetary means to supporting our efforts in Uganda, I pass along the hugs and deepest gratitude from those who have been impacted by your kindness. I wish I could have shared the pineapple and mangoes with you too - they were the best I've ever had.