We spent our last day here at the Okari School its late in the evening and we are getting ready to go to bed. There is a feeling of sadness to leave a place where we learned so much and feel we have been accepted into the Okari School as family members. From a youth perspective, there is so much for people to learn from the students here and the community of Kisii. They know how to live in the moment, and even though they don’t have much in terms of materialism, they are very rich in a spiritual context. They truly place great value on the simple things in life: a meal, a glass of water, the importance of rain, the necessity of shelter, and true respect for one another. Everywhere you traveled people would welcome you into their homes and were sincerely interested in you, your story, and how you are doing. God lives in these hills of Kisii and we are changed people because of it.
Tonight we had a celebration in honor of the students at Kisii and not surprisingly Kwamboka, Joanne, Bill, Glenn and Colton were the guests of honor. From preschool to eighth grade the kids performed eloquently for us. The final song was the best. The kids all danced in a circle and chanted the guest of honor’s names and before we knew it we were out there trying to keep pace with the students as they grooved to sound of their beautiful voices. Afterwards we had to say a few final words because we are leaving in the morning after an early morning skype with the Walden Summit. We promised the students that we would let the world know about these amazing young boys and girls who are so intelligent and talented. We asked them to keep working hard and believe in themselves and if they make it to sing in front of their President we would find a way to get them to the states and sing in front of President Obama. We will keep that promise.
We are grateful for all those who have supported our trip and endeavors in Kenya. We thank Colton in believing it is right to help others. We thank Heather, Summer, Solana, Nevada, and Harmony for supporting this special trip. We’d also like to thank Peg for believing in us for the last 15 years. Thank you to Kwamboka for her beautiful smile and for showing us what a true leader is made of. A big shout out to Joanne who has cared for us here in Kenya and is unique and powerful person in her own right. Last but not least is the AYS Family on Pearson Street - thanks for taking care of business and believing in us enough to give us this opportunity. It has been such a wonderful gift.
Love and Peace to you all,
Bill, Glenn, Colton and the 3 inch mosquitos
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