Kenya – My Time There

23Oct08

Many people have asked me since we returned from Kenya a very simple “So, how was it?”

Simple question.  Unfortunately I can never come up with a simple answer. 

It was awesome and horrible all at the same time.  Our team saw hope and despair within a few hours.  The team was encouraged by a lot of what was seen and, at the same time were wrecked with the enormity of poverty.  How does one answer a question like that?

First of all, for anyone going on a short-term mission trip, prepare to be an emotional wreck when you return home.  Be prepared to answer the “so, how was it” question with “do you want the short answer or the long answer”.  There will be well meaning people who don’t want to or can’t hear the long answer.  There is nothing you can do to prepare them for the real answer.  Living in the US doesn’t give them a proper perspective on what you experienced.  If you do find someone who is truly interested in hearing EVERYTHING, prepare to have your heart broken all over again as you share your story.  By the way, while the other people are well meaning, those who truly want to know are your true supporters.

On September 26th, 17 people left the friendly confines and surroundings of Cary, North Carolina for a 12 day trip to East Africa.  By the time they returned on October 8th, they were changed forever.  They left their hearts in a small community that doesn’t show up on any map.  They loved and were loved by some kids unconditionally.

So if you ask someone who has taken a short-term trip to bring some light in a very dark area, know that you are opening up a conversation that you may not be prepared to hear.  I love that each of the team were willing to step outside of themselves and their safe cocoon to open themselves up to others hurts, grief’s and trials.  I know that they have been changed forever by this trip. 

Just be prepared to hear the real story if you ask the question.

Filed under: church, kenya, missions   |  1 Comment