The Invisible Children

During my day shopping day with Kate she told me about an organization that she was involved with a couple of years ago called "The Invisible Children."

For over two decades, the LRA terrorized northern Uganda, which led to the displacement of nearly two million people. The LRA has been pushed out of Uganda in recent years, but continues to wreak havoc in the border region of northeastern Congo and southern Sudan. Under the leadership of Joseph Kony, the LRA has supported itself in part through the kidnapping of 66,000 children and forcing them to fight as child soldiers.

Kate gave me a documentary about "The Invisible Children" to borrow and I must say it was very impacting. Sometimes I think we (including myself) become so consumed with our own lives, stress and concerns, that we do not see the sufferings of others whether locally or globally. It is not that we are ignorant to suffering, I think we just are hesitant to extend our emotions beyond ourselves due to fear. If you are reading this blog, please take a moment to check out the website http://www.theinvisiblechildren.com. They have a great site with news updates, movies to view as well as ways to help the cause.

Retrieved from http://www.theinvisiblechildren.com on 5/25/09

Skirt Shopping

In preparation for my trip to Africa, I met with my new friend Kate to search for appropriate clothing. We were on a mission to find mostly skirts but also scrubs and scarfs. We searched hi and low in St. Pete with not much luck. However, we did end up purchasing one scarf each. Kate is modeling one to the right. I still don't know how to tie it up on myself, but I must admit I am kind of excited about it! We have not given up on the skirts just yet, but we may try to learn how to sew. It overall was a great day and good opportunity for good bonding with a new friend. :)

The Pearl of Africa

Uganda, a landlocked country in East Africa, consists of savanna plateau with mountains and lakes. "The pearl of Africa," wrote Winston Churchill of this former British protectorate that embraces Lake Victoria, source of the White Nile, and the misty Ruwenzori Mountains—a home of the endangered mountain gorilla.

http//:www.nationalgeographic.com

The first step of this journey is complete. As of today I have raised ALL the necessary money for this trip ($3500) thanks to the kindness and generosity of my family members, friends and even strangers to myself. I feel so unbelievably blessed and grateful to all who were able to give as well as those who have committed to pray for my trip and for the Ugandan people.

I have had this trip on my heart since I was 17 years old. I am not exactly sure as to why I have had this tug on my heart so heavily but I look forward to seeing God unravel the mystery of this purpose he has for my life. In some ways, I feel as if though this trip is overdue but then again, he has his own timing! I hope to blog about my preparation for this mission trip and also share with readers my research about Uganda's culture and people. Looking forward to this adventure to the "Pearl of Africa"!!