A Mission in Uganda

This post is a bit of a diversion from my usual but I am so compelled that I had to write it. My fiance's daughter and son-in-law are taking a huge trip. This is not just any trip, not a vacation to the south seas or europe but a 6 month trek to Africa to work with a group who is bringing clean water to a village in Uganda. You may say, Ok, lots of people do this type of thing but I am really impressed by these kids (they are in their early 20s) not only for what they are doing, but for the why.

Let's face it being married in your early 20s is tough enough since you are trying to find yourself as well as your way with another person to whom you have committed your life. That's not easy at any age but so young, it's especially difficult. These two kids are both extremely bright and well educated. Brittany (fiance's daughter) has a degree and has worked in high finance - please don't ask me specifics since I can barely balance my now depleted checkbook; and Steve, her husband, is an engineer specializing in water systems.

As they have been trying to find their niche in the world they have diverged from the usual. Rather than focus their energy on themselves and using their money to either plan for a house, kids etc, or spend their money on cars, clothes and nightlife (as I pretty much did at that age) they have embarked on a quest to find a place in the world where they can give back and grow in the process. After working for a couple of years in their chosen fields, they realize that there must be more, so they are seeking a deeper meaning for themselves in the world. I didn't figure that out until I was in my forties. I have a great deal of admiration for the both of them as a result. They are packing up their worldly goods into storage for 6 months and heading out into the unknown in Africa to be productive and useful with their hard-earned degrees. What a perfect time to do this, while they are young and can make a difference. They also will be changed, more than even they imagine, by this experience and what a wonderful thing that is. These two, who obviously already care for those in need will come back from this adventure with a true appreciation of what we all consider basic necessities but millions of others die for lack of every day.

One thing they do need though is financial help to fund the trip. If they had been making this trip a year ago, I'd have written them a check for the entire amount but now with my medical bills, I am no longer in a position to do so. However, all they need is $10K! I will let you read what the money is used for and more about the mission from their own website. Even if you can't donate, please visit the site as they will update when possible from onsite in Uganda and hey, prayers are free and I am sure that they will welcome those. See the link here: http://www.sbtrips.blogspot.com/

They are visiting us this weekend, probably the last time we will see them before the big trip, so I am going to research a little about food in Uganda and hopefully make them something tasty as a send off. I am proud to know Brittany and Steve and they inspire me to be a better human being.