Dec 21, 2011- 11:44 AM
Over the years, Christmas has evolved into a materially driven holiday. Most people spend a small fortune purchasing presents and creating lavish dinners.
When children head back to school following the Christmas holidays, there is a competition to see who got the best present. I grew up accepting this, and enjoying every Christmas, but never truly understanding the meaning of the holiday.
For the next month, I will be living at Watoto Wa Baraka for training from my partner and his phenomenal staff. I am already learning so many valuable life lessons.
Sometimes it’s crazy to believe I’m actually here. After a year of planning and fundraising, I am now in the process of starting Zawadi la Tumaini. I feel as though the entire community is alongside me, even though we are oceans apart.
Without the support of generous Sudburians, I wouldn’t have been able to make my dream a reality, and support children throughout the Makueni of Kenya.
Together we have come together to help children receive care, support and have the opportunity to reach their full potential.
I’ve only been in Kenya for a very short period of time, but once again the children are opening my eyes to the important things in life.
The children at my partner’s orphanage, Watoto Wa Baraka, show me why Christmas is so meaningful.
These children aren’t excited because of the presents they will receive. Instead, they are most looking forward to having a Christmas dinner with the people they care about most. Each child has lost their families, but together we have all created a new family.
They have shown me that the gifts you receive aren’t important. Instead, what matters most is spending time with the people you love.
Hanmer resident Jacqueline Villeneuve will provide monthly updates to Northern Life on her work and efforts to build a home for HIV/AIDS orphans in Kenya. Type her name into the search bar at NorthernLife.ca to learn more.
Posted by Vivian Scinto
