Thank you Kenya!

So here we are and another year has come and gone. I am so thankful for the year I had. in November of 2011 I had the privilege of visiting Kenya. I stayed in a slum called Kibera which is located in Nairobi. The experience was life changing and I even found love. It was in Kibera that I learned what the true sense of community is. People worked together without expectation of monetary compensation or a promise of a future favor; they work together because they know their survival is dependent upon it. If America can shift its culture from the individualist that it is to such a culture, we too would be prosperous. I guess it will happen when all other options have been exhausted. Don't get me wrong, I love my America, I just wish think we have a lot to learn when it comes to the spirit of community.

The best part of my travels was a visit to Lake Victoria where I ate the biggest and freshest piece of tilapia that I ever had in my life. Another unforgettable experience was when we visited Siaya county and took a casual stroll in the night. The only light that could be seen was the shining moon and stars which made for a peaceful moment. There is so much beauty in Africa that is yet untold. I plan to visit again shortly. The people have made me feel as though it is now home for me as well. I guess when you set out to help others you find you helping yourself too. Thank you Kenya!

Kibera!

People have asked my why I care so much about Kibera and so I thought I would share the story with you. Kibera is a slum in Nairobi, Kenya which is said to be 1 square mile big and estimated to be home to people between 400,000 to 1,000,000 dependent on who is reporting the information. I met a young man through facebook some time back and we built a good friendship and eventually started communicating through skype. I would always ask him to describe his home to me, the people, land, food, music etc. He seemed to be optimistic but had struggles there which he seldom told me about. One day after burdens became too much he asked the question: " I wonder if God still remembers we are here?" It was in that moment that I felt something come over me (holy spirit for those that don't know) and I knew that was my personal charge to do SOMETHING to help. What I decided to do was ask how I can help. What we decided to do was build a collaborative which will enable artisans in Kibera to bring there work to the American market. They are so grateful and hope has been restored to them. I care because of they are my friends. I care because I am able to do so and provide them hope. I care because that is the person that I am. I care because my friend Kevin should me how to. If you look at my profile picture it is a picture of the curious children there in Kibera. Despite there grave circumstances, they possess some of the biggest smiles I have ever seen. I care because of them. If we do not take care of them who will? I encourage you to learn more about Kibera and to make a friend with someone there or work with an organization that is reputable. There are SO MANY organizations that say they are helping but if you ask the people they will tell yo that they do not receive the benefits or it is so random they cannot rely on it. I hope I have peeked your interest in Kibera and you do take the time to learn more. It is a beautiful place. More to come...