The Day We Met the Students

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One of the verses from Deb’s evening devotion: John 14:1 (Jesus comforts his disciples) “Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in Me.”


Today was an outstanding day full of wonders, joy, and amazement… and eye opening sights.  We travelled to Mbuguni, which was quite a long way, through some rough and dusty roads.  Along the way we got a glimpse of how life is here.  Their way of life seems hard to us, but it is what they have.  It what God provides. Coming through the city we saw crowded streets, cars and motor cycles every which way.  Small shops lined the streets.  To us it would seem so disorganized. Then as we left the city, we saw the rural areas.  It was dry and dusty and homes were brick with chickens, goats, and cows in the yards. We saw children carrying water, famers in their dry fields, herders moving their (very skinny) cows to the fields. Certainly a way of life that we are not used to. 


On the way, we stopped off the road and had devotions, then continued to the Next Life Foundation school. We were immediately captivated by the students coming out of the building in single file - all singing and marching around our vans.  It was a beautiful sight and sound.   This school is such a blessing to the area - with the students learning carpentry and sewing and able and loving teachers, pastors and administration. 


We had a devotion service with the pastor, teachers and students.  After each student introduced themselves and where they were from. Some of the students walk 3+ hours each way to school.  They have determination and grit!  In the afternoon, we got to work setting up the eyeglass clinic.  Our first participants were students.  What a joy they are. And we are so thankful they are hosting us for this eyeglass clinic.



Patti is greeting “her” kids.  Patti is co-founder and president of Next Life Foundation


Devotions in the field (literally)

Students Greeting us!


Our first clinic participants!

Everyone gets sunglasses to help protect their eyes


Dry and dusty road (and skinny cow!).  Ahead of us is our other bus. 


Children walking to school - all in required uniforms

Children carrying water home


One of the many houses we saw

 






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