PLEASE, can I have a ball?

I think the kids kinda get it!!


This gate always makes me wonder if I am "protecting" myself from the true reality of Gulu. Only the well off and white enclose themselves in walled compounds. My heart is to strive to live a life similar to the people I am ministering to.
But the gate definitely seperates our two worlds even more. As I looked at the gate today, I noticed how the peep hole is large enough for a small face to shine through, a large arm to pull in and wide enough to see outside but still be inside. I can see the reality outside of my home with the perimeters that suite my protection, conscious and morality, yet still claim to be compassionate and reaching.....however, next to that hole is a lock. A clear and strong lock that determines all who enter. I don't want it; I would prefer to live in an ot, no door and walls - but the other reality is that not everyone thinks like I do or will treat me well. Unfortunately, in order to minister I must be protected. That being said, my ambition is to live out the love of Jesus everyday in everyway to my neighborhood so these "walls" and "gates" are no longer needed. That instead of maybe taking advantage of me, they will see me as their friend, sister, daughter, mother....someone who loves them.

I was sitting outside on the porch with Odie (who had seven LARGE ticks on him - PG for tweezers and a patient dog....it was nasty! where does he go during the day to get ticks?! I promise you my yard is small, clean and not full of ticks!!!), eating and reading my book when I see a little eye looking at me through the gate. Then I hear I my name - "Christine!"....sweet.

I see a few pairs of feet underneath the gate....I just knew today was the day we would play.

So I put down my book, go inside, grab the mini football (soccer), my camera and some candy that was in the house. I ran down the stairs and headed to the gate. I opened the dwarf gate and immediately the kids stood there with their hands open...thinking I was just opening the gate to pass something over. I walked through, closed the gate, said "Cam Karama Ma Ber" and passed out little candies...made sure they said thank you or apwoyo...not because I want to hear it but I want them to learn so others will see how wonderful they are.

Then I got the football and realized we needed goals. Ran back into the house to get the cones...we set the pitch (field) right in the road (don't worry, it is just dirt). And a game was started...







They played for a good time...final score was 6 - 10. My little Opio is an EXCELLENT player!! I was proud of him.

The girls and I hungout and watched....they didn't talk much....until I brought the camera out...then they laughed. And then all the kids came....and we took more pics.



Then, of course, we had to do some silly pics...


This girl is deaf and believes right out I understand everything she says...she always tries to convince me to come into the compound...she is absolutely hilarious!!! I think I am beginning to understand her. Still working on getting her name straight...hear different names...


This is Apiyo Nancy...she is a total diva...no joke. And, she is Cosmas' daughter. :)



Robacken Jeffrey and my Opio Erick.....



Sunday.....



My interpreter, Okello David. :)

After awhile the kids started getting ancy...so we stopped before anything serious occurred....it all works. They were really good about stopping...which I was surprised. I am used to kids whinning, but they didn't. YAY!! We said our goodbyes and it was a day. Fun. I want to do small little things outside with them just to get to know them and for them to get to know me before I do anything like tutoring or bible clubs...

Then the rest of the day has been catching up with people....boy oh boy! It has been nice...so I guess it is somewhat of a blessing that the van is STILL not done. Ai Vi.I give up. I give all control over to Simon on this one...he wants he can have it....lol :) Instead of getting mad, I am thinking of talking about the concept of prosperity through being honest, faithful and productive that is pleasing to God.

I was able to see squirmy Noah today - PG!!! He showed me his new toys from Grandma, said my name a few times, ran around the room, and then gave me a kiss through the screen. Sigh. I love that kid.

Now, since I really have not had sleep in two days because I've been talking to family at night I believe I shall call it a day and peace on out.

Thank you all for always praying and being so supportive. It blesses me. You are my blessings!!!