Gone to GHANA!

Final thoughts

2009-06-19T14:49:00.008-03:00

Having been back in the states now for just over a week, I have struggled to try to tie my entire trip into one nice neat little package. While I did realize that it’s not going to happen, I also came upon a common theme over the months that culminated in the last two books that I read while I was in Ghana.

Taking a few steps back, or more like a year back to one of my first blogs that I wrote in June of 2008, I see that I asked specifically for prayer for humility. In all honesty I don’t quite remember why that was at the top of my list at the time. Most people getting ready to be separated from everything and everyone they know and love for 10 months probably would have asked for courage, boldness, or strength. I guess God knew that wasn’t what I needed most. He knew that in order to be used fully, I had to realize first how useless I really am. And I did learn that lesson, time and time again. Then, in case I didn’t really get it the first thousand times I fell on my face and cried out for help, I read two books in the first week of June, my last week there, that really nailed everything home. In Francine Rivers’ book, And the Shofar Blew, she tells the story of a man who becomes a pastor of a church to build it up in the name of Christ, but glorifies himself instead. In the end, the church crumbles and he is inevitably brought to his knees. Then in John MacArtuhur’s book, Hard to Believe, he first quotes from 1 Corinthians saying “Brothers, think of what you were when you were called. Not many of you were wise by human standards; not many were influential; not many were of noble birth. But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong. He chose the lowly things of this world and the despised things—and the things that are not—to nullify the things that are.” MacArthur then goes on to say “It is human nature to want to be somebody. So the Lord decided to do it in a different way, choosing as his messengers the impotent, nonintellectual nobodies who the world considers nothing by its standards.” I believe that passage of scripture does a couple of things; it humbles those who need a good humbling, and encourages those who need a good encouragement. In other words, it puts us in our place, a loved child of God made in His image, but one that should not consider equality with God something to be grasped (Philippians 2:6). After all, when countless people asked Jesus during his ministry on earth what they need to do to come after him, he said “deny yourself, take up your cross daily, and follow me” (Luke 9:23). It is not about us, for we are dirty wretched sinners (“there is no one righteous, not even one”) but it’s about who God is and who we are only through him. I am so thankful for those invaluable lessons in humility, as painful as they may have been at times.

Finally, I have one last child to tell you about. It is strangely fitting that he is the last child for me to introduce you to, as he was by far the most difficult kid for me to connect with. His name is Kobby and he is a beautiful and precious boy. He is 11 years old and is very guarded, obviously carrying more emotional baggage than I would ever wish on any adult, let along a child. He has a winning smile and a heart of gold, but a real hesitancy to have too much fun or get too close to any one person. At one point though in the last month that I was in Ghana, he sent a message to me via another kid who said “Miss Lindsay, Kobby wants you to know that you are loved by him.” While there was never physical affection or attention to back that up, that single statement meant more to me than anything else could have. I ask that you continue to pray for him and all of the other kids even though I am home. I may be back in the US, but they are still there, and their needs are just as real now as they’ve ever been.

Thank you.

Love,

Your dear obruni

Lindsay Hendrix

I'm Coming HOME

2009-06-07T05:55:00.003-03:00

The past week at Haven of Hope has been challenging and tiresome, but also rewarding and full of hilarious moments. I guess I don’t know why I expected my last week to be any different than the other 42 that preceded it. I struggled with a couple of my students in class and said a few goodbyes, but after school we put on plays with balloons on which we drew funny faces and had our final dance parties. In retrospect, if I weighed the good and the bad of every week, no matter how difficult it seemed in the moment, I think I always came out on top. I thank God for His goodness and faithfulness to see me through this ministry that He called me to. It is true that He will never give us more than we can handle with Him by our side!

There is one thing that made this week stand out above every other, and that is the fact that in the last 7 days, 10 boys from the home have come to trust Jesus Christ as their Savior and Lord of their lives! Praise God.

On another note… in case you weren’t already aware… I’m coming HOME. In 3 days, I will be taking off, making a pit stop in London, and traveling the rest of the way home to Phoenix again. I know it is time; I am more than ready to see my friends and family. And while it may be a few days before I am on a normal sleep schedule, I am anxious to have some real social interaction again!

Our child today just so happens to be one of the boys who chose this week to pick up his cross and follow Jesus. His name is Osumanu. He is 8 years old and kind of short for his age, but what he lacks in height he makes up for in personality and pure spunk! He is wild and crazy, but has a soft and tender heart!

Wrapping up...

2009-05-31T11:51:00.001-03:00

I don’t have a whole lot to say today. I hope that’s alright. Many of you have read all or most of my really lengthy blogs and for that I want to thank you. It’s been great to have an outlet for my thoughts and feelings, and even better knowing that someone other than my parents actually reads them! I hope that in some way you have been able to live vicariously through me and experience even a smidgen of the joy, satisfaction, and love that I have felt in this place. Now the trick will be to transfer all of these lessons to my life back in Phoenix and persist in pursuing God’s continuing will for my life. These kids are too much a part of who I am though for me to leave and never return. God willing I will be back, in due time. A teacher does get a couple months off in the summers you know! Maybe some of you would like to come with me next time (wink wink)!

With only a couple children left to introduce you to, here is one of our extremely precious and soft-spoken young ones. Aseidu is 6 years old and in P1. He is smart and helpful, and despite his quietness, even the older kids love and respect him. He has been such a joy and a constant source of smiles over the last 9 months.

Trust and Obey, there is no other way

2009-05-23T12:11:00.002-03:00

The past couple weeks have proven to be great object lessons in obedience and trust.

Ever since we attended camp with the youth from Calvary Baptist, it has really been on my heart (as I have written previously) to make a connection between them and the children at our home for a variety of reasons. So, in obedience to what I felt like I was being called to do, I got up in front of the church and spoke for a short time about Haven of Hope, what I’ve been doing here for the past 9 months, and invited everyone to come and join us in a “Happy Birthday Everybody” celebration the following weekend, May 16th. I asked that anyone who was interested see me after church so that we could have an idea of how many to expect. There were only 4 people who got my contact information and expressed interest. Extremely disappointed, I went ahead with the party planning and resolved myself to the fact that we were going to have a heck of a time whether or not anyone came to join us. And we did! We had music and dancing and cupcakes and ice cream and enjoyed ourselves very much. The 4 people who said they wanted to come did show up and enjoyed themselves as well. However, a couple hours into the party, 2 taxis pulled up at our gate and 11 boys poured out. Evidently on the same day that I spoke to the Youth Chapel, our pastor also announced it to the Teen Chapel. These 11 teenage boys transformed the party, really engaged the kids, played an epic soccer game, and their presence meant more to our kids than they may ever know. Many expressed a definite desire to come again and it was a great success in every possible way, despite my doubts. Obedience is one thing, but learning to trust that the Lord will work in your obedience is quite another.

It is funny to me how I can teach my own students certain things, yet not always believe them myself. A lesson I find myself repeating often is the plea for obedience. I also want them to understand that I do not ask them to do things “just because”. Every rule and therefore every act of obedience has a purpose. More often than not around here it is to keep the children safe and healthy. I say these things so often that the kids have begun to say them to each other, but when it comes to believing that God has a purpose when he asks me to do certain things, I struggle. He has a plan. I just need to understand that every act of obedience is part of a bigger plan, not “just because”. Faith and trust in my God need to both precede and follow my obedience, because He is good.

Please pray this week for Fausia. She is a hyper, hilarious 14 year old. She is a great dancer and a good student, but more than anything, I would say that she is a good friend.

Life to the FULLEST

2009-05-17T06:28:00.003-03:00

“The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the fullest.”

In this passage in John, Jesus is giving an analogy of the Shepherd and His flock, referring to his saving grace and the life that comes through salvation offered only by Him. Additionally, in Matthew, as Jesus is instructing the crowds how to pray, he says:

“Your kingdom come, your will be done on earth as it is in heaven.”

To me, this means that the fullness of life does not have to wait. It is not something that begins only at death, but a glimpse of his kingdom is available to us now on earth! What does that “life to the full” look like though? I believe that it begins with the little things. The other day, I had gone into town and was getting back in the late afternoon. I arrived at my trotro stop about a mile and a half from our home and the weather looked clear as I began my walk down the road. However, due to the fact that we are now back in the rainy season and the weather is very temperamental, it started pouring down rain while I was still a half mile out. I walked that last half mile becoming a human mop and splashing mud on the back of my legs with my sandals, but in the midst of it, I was ultimately very happy. I laughed at the situation and found myself singing, thinking “there is nothing better than this”. If you can see God’s hand in everything and find joy despite circumstances, then that is life to the full. The beautiful thing though is that is only where it begins… there are no limits to the freedom of that life in Him!

This week there are 4 children, 2 sets of siblings that I’d like to introduce you to. The first, Sammy (5) and Kwame (9), came from very desperate situations on the streets over a year ago. They are both very energetic and precious boys who are always eager to help, but also quick to get into trouble! The second is yet another new addition to our family… Ama (2) and Prince (4). Please pray for these precious young ones this week!

One Month Left

2009-05-09T11:16:00.002-03:00

Tomorrow, May 10th, leaves me with only one month left here in Ghana. Since Elise has gone, I’ve had a lot more time to think, which for me mostly means a lot more time to worry. I worry about the kids. Who will play with them when I leave, teach them Disney songs, laugh with them and tease them like me? I think that these are MY kids and I don’t know what I’ll do without them. What will they do without me? Will anyone ever be able to love them as much as I do? What can I do to solidify a good future for each of them in the next 30 days? I put an enormous amount of weight on my own shoulders to shape their futures. That is a lot of responsibility for any one person to carry; I thought I would have learned that lesson by now. Finally, after I’m stressed to the point of getting pimples and craving chocolate (which I have none of) I take a deep breath and realize how foolish my worries are. These kids at this home are not mine. They never were. They are precious children, created by God and they are held perfectly in His hand. I was simply allowed to be in their lives for a time. And while they have changed me and taught me, molded me into who I am right now, I cannot take them with me. I do not need to fret about the well-being of these kids. What freedom there is in the realization that we are not always in control.

In Matthew 6, Jesus says “Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable that they? Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to your life? And why do you worry about clothes? See how the lilies of the field grow? Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. If that is how God clothes the grass of the field which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you, O you of little faith?”

I know that these children are more beautiful than any lily and more valuable than any bird. They are made in the image of the Most High God. I need to be taking my faith, what little there seems to be sometimes, off my own head and placing it in the hands of the only One who is deserving.

One of those precious kids is Adjei. While I know that he is bold and brave and I have seen glimpses of that, he often finds security in hiding behind his supposed “shyness”. He is a very handsome 10 year old with a priceless smile who loves football, friends, and big hugs from Miss Lindsay (but only secretly, for he has a reputation to keep).

Missing my Wingman

2009-04-30T08:25:00.002-03:00

Tomorrow night I am losing my right hand man. Elise has been with me since the moment I stepped off the plane here in Ghana over 8 months ago. We have gone through everything together, both the good and the bad. We figured out how to get around the city and how to survive in a vastly different culture. We danced our hearts out at camp, and celebrated every major holiday together. We also have shared every frustration with regards to the kids and our feelings of missing home. We have experienced real Christian community and authentic fellowship. Now, she suddenly has to leave early in order to be with her family as her grandmother’s health is rapidly declining and the doctors don’t give her much more than a few days to live. That leaves Elise in a lot of pain and me still here, alone, for the last 6 weeks of my stay. I must admit that I’m nervous. I’m not so much nervous about getting around by myself or staying in our house alone. I’m a big girl and I was always the navigator anyways (sorry Elise but you know it’s true), but I am nervous about what God is going to do with me in the next six weeks. Recently I have been really craving social interaction with others my own age, and just as I start to feel that longing, the ONLY other person my age is taken completely out of the picture. I almost feel as though this is my final test. I’ve survived so far and relied on God for his strength and provision, but I’ve also had the unending support of a great friend. Now completely on my own, how will I fare? Will I falter? Will I thrive? God, test me and use me according to your perfect will. May my faith not be reliant upon that of those around me. May I stand firm on my own two feet and finish out my time here with a boldness, confidence, and strength that literally come from no one but You.

And friends, please pray for Aisha this week. She is a bright girl and loving sister to our handsome little Gabriel. She is athletic and witty, hard-working and hilarious. Keep this beautiful 11 year old in mind this week, as well as Elise and her family.

Slowing down, seeing stars!

2009-04-24T07:32:00.002-03:00

Something that has been both a source of enjoyment and annoyance since being in Ghana has been the drastic change of pace. Back home in the States, it seems the philosophy is to get as much accomplished in a single day as possible. I was no exception. I can even recall my brother asking me in college if I had more hours in a day than a normal person. However, my lifestyle has taken quite the turn in a culture where time is of little importance and it seems the only thing people really need to do in a day is cook. While this has been slightly frustrating for a multi-tasker of my nature, it is something I have also come to appreciate. A side-effect of that slower paced lifestyle and living in a remote setting has been that in the evenings, there is little to no light pollution from big businesses or busy streets, allowing the stars to be seen more vibrantly than I have ever seen them! What a magnificent way that God has chosen to reveal His awesome nature to us.

“To whom will you compare me? Or who is my equal?” says the Holy One. Lift your eyes and look to the heavens: who created all these? He who brings out the starry host one by one and calls them each by name.” ~ Isaiah 40:25-26

“When I consider your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon and the stars which you have set in place, what is man that you are mindful of him, the son of man that you care for him?” ~ Psalms 8:3-4

God’s very nature and presence can be seen in His creation day in and day out and I know that He has revealed marvelous things to me over the last 8 months through these children at Haven of Hope, created in His very own image.

One of those creations is our very own Bequin. He is a handsome little 10 year old with long skinny legs and knobby knees who can kick my butt in a 100-yard dash any day of the week. He is lively and hilarious, quite the character, but also shows a softer side in little notes he writes to Elise and I. He is a precious boy and I ask that you pray for him and his well-being as you continue through your week!

Thinking bigger!

2009-04-19T06:41:00.001-03:00

There comes a time when anyone is doing short term ministry that you begin to realize that you are not going to be in the field forever. I can still so vividly remember arriving here in Ghana in August and thinking that I would never be going home. Ten months felt like a lifetime. However, now with less than 8 weeks left, I am feeling a sense of urgency in accomplishing all that I set out to do here. In doing so, it has been very important for me not to look so closely at the next few weeks, but really examine the big picture and think about what lessons I can teach the kids and what experiences I can provide them with that will last long after I am gone. First and foremost, I want the kids to know that they are loved, that I love them and that God loves them. I think that goal has been in the slow process of accomplishment since the day we got here. More specifically, there are things I would love to instill in them in regards to their education.

I know that in one school year, I will not be able to equip my students with everything they need to know in the subjects of math, reading, and science for the rest of their lives. With that in mind, I am desperately searching for ways to show the kids that there is a purpose in their education and that if they work hard, they too can go to college and make a life for themselves with greater opportunities than their families were afforded. I understand that is a difficult task, so that’s where I ask for your prayers. At camp last week, Elise and I were able to meet some great Ghanaians who are our age, and nearly all are in some sort of college or University. Some already have jobs as engineers or nurses and are making a way for themselves via a quality education. My goal is to get the youth at Calvary Baptist connected with our kids here at the home so that they may see that even Ghanaians can go to college. That realization might possibly give them the motivation they have been so lacking in their school work. All the while I hope they will be developing relationships with young adults who can be good role models for them after we leave. I also think that connection would be great for the youth as well because it would help them to see the dire need just within their own country that many of them are oblivious to in their middle class neighborhoods and private schools only an hour and a half away. So I ask for your prayers as we attempt to make that connection in the next couple of months.

The other main point that I am trying to convey to the kids is the importance of reading. If these kids know how to read and read well, they can teach themselves everything else they’ll need to succeed. In order to emphasize that, while we are on vacation I have been doing a reading club with all of the kids from our school (whether they are from the home or the village) who are struggling with reading, as well as anyone else who would like to attend. Initially I thought my attendance would be low, but since the word got out, there have been over 35 kids in my class on Tuesday and Thursday mornings! What an awesome, fulfilling, and chaotic experience it has been. We have been making our own books, doing a variety of phonics activities, playing games, and even expanding our imagination through story writing!

It is definitely a change in perspective when you begin to realize your limitations, but I pray that I am being a good steward of my time here in making a lasting impression on these kids!

Today’s child is Abby. She is 10 years old and in P5! She is a subdued personality and can be overshadowed by others in her class, but she works hard and does well. She is also really great with the little girls and loves being a mothering figure for them. She can be quiet and hard to figure out sometimes, but I thank God for the glimpses into her heart that He has allowed us!

CAMP

2009-04-14T13:26:00.000-03:00

Over Easter weekend, I think that I experienced the widest variety of feelings in 72 hours that is humanly possible. I attended youth camp with over 160 other Ghanaians my age. We had prayer time, worship, speakers, bible study, alone time, outreach, and praise. Sounds like an average Christian camp, right? Wrong. I experienced hunger from fasting for 2 days, fatigue from 4:30am morning devotions, embarrassment from being called on all the time, loneliness from being the “new kid”, frustration from being the object of racism, happiness from making new friends, joy from exuberant worship, satisfaction from helping set up a medical clinic, and excitement (and a sore body) from participating in the most epic dance party I have ever been a part of! I learned more about myself, my faith, and the character of people in those three days than I thought possible, however I don’t think that I can remember much of what the speakers talked about. It goes to show that experience really is the best teacher.

To expound on a few of those highlights, I would like to start by saying that I hope and pray that anyone who has even an ounce of racist tendencies will look very closely at their own hearts and lives and let them go. The reason being, I now know first hand what it feels like to be discriminated against for absolutely no reason, based on nothing but stereotypes of other white people that have been buried in their minds and dwelled upon creating anger and resentment towards innocent people. Now, that being said, I would have you know that 90 percent of the people at camp were very welcoming, outgoing, and excited about our presence. However, the remaining 10 percent had no qualms about letting us know that they were unhappy about our being there. So please, I beg you to examine your own attitudes towards those who are different than you, whether they are black, green, purple, handicapped, homeless, or addicted. Jesus made no exceptions in those he chose to pour his love out on and instructed us even to love our enemies. God’s grace and forgiveness is abundant for all people and we should follow his example and allow his love to pour through us in the same unlimited fashion.

To make another point, I would also like to say that there is great importance in hospitality towards newcomers, especially within the church. But as the newcomer, you must also be willing to go out on a limb, step out of your comfort zone, and make the effort to meet new people. As many of you probably know, I have been a member of the same church since I was 6 years old and it is my home, the members are my family. Until this weekend, I didn’t really know what it felt like to be the new person. However, I did not just sit back and expect people to come to me. I sought out people to sit with, introduced myself to everyone who would listen, and even went so far as to dance with them for 2 straight hours, becoming a sweaty mess while we all laughed and carried on together. In the end, it paid off and I had the privilege of meeting a lot of great people, making some new friends, and creating hilarious irreplaceable memories. Every situation is what you make of it, and while it is reasonable to have certain expectations of loving members reaching out to others in the church, the end result is really in your hands.

All in all, I am very glad that I went, I learned so much, and even got a few compliments on my attempts at dancing! Great experience… great weekend.

As always though, I still missed my kiddos at home and was so glad to see them. There are two kids I’d like to introduce you to today. One of a few sets of siblings here at the home, Janet (15) and Isaac (11) are a beautiful part of our home. Janet keeps herself busy reading all kinds of books while Isaac will surely grow up one day to be a football (soccer) star! They are great with each other and set a good example of brotherly love for the other siblings within the home. Pray for them, their individual well-being, and their bond as family!

An Inside Look

2009-04-05T11:19:00.002-03:00

Fairly frequently, amidst all that can be difficult or disheartening, I am blessed to receive priceless little “nuggets” from the kids in the form of a funny comment, an unexpected hug, or a precious letter. These little nuggets do nothing less than sustain me, remind me why I am here, and give me the encouragement I need to continue on. This week I have had the benefit of many such nuggets in the form of hilarious pictures and videos.

Over the course of our time here, Elise and I have taught several of the kids how to use our cameras. They usually will ask to borrow them if we are all playing a game or doing some kind of activity. However, this week they have asked to borrow them in the evenings so that they can take pictures and videos of happenings in their dorms. What we have received from those nights in their rooms could never be duplicated! If there is one truth that I have discovered, it is that no matter the culture, background, or age of the kids, the idea of imagination, pretending, and playing, is paramount. It is a universal truth. The boys turned in pictures of themselves in karate stances, doing marching exercises, singing songs, and even dressing up like girls. They put together a play and took videos as they acted out everyday scenes and made up ones. The girls gave us pictures of themselves with pillows stuffed in their shirts and blankets draped over their heads as they pretended to be famous singers and beautiful queens. I am so thankful for these precious inside looks at their unhindered imaginations.

Another unintentional benefit of these pictures and videos has been to provide a funny introduction to our home and a welcoming environment to another new addition to our Haven of Hope family. Joshua is a 13 year old boy who just came to us from Accra. He has a bright smile and an outgoing personality, but I pray that his transition to our home will be smooth and filled with 46 new friends!

Additionally, I’d like to introduce Regina who is a beautiful 11 year old girl and younger sister to Mary. She is in P6 and is very smart, always working hard on her school work. She is a gentle spirit, but her quiet demeanor does not fool us, as she can dance and sing better than most! Please keep Regina in your prayers as she thrives and continues on to Junior Secondary School next year.

Pool Times!

2009-03-29T06:54:00.002-03:00

“Swimming, swimming in the swimming pool. Days are hot, days are cold, in the swimming pool. Side stroke, back stroke, fancy diving too….”

Sorry, that’s all I can remember… but that was part of a song that I sang when I took swimming lessons in the backyard of a big house with a funny lady who gave out Skittles, many years ago. In America, learning to swim and enjoying a relaxing day at the pool are things that we take for granted, along with many other things, because they are so readily available for us. However, here in Ghana where an underground pool is extremely hard to come by, we have been fortunate enough to expose our kids to the joys of a pool along with their first swimming lessons.

Thanks to a generous gift from back home (you know who you are), Elise and I have had the privilege of taking small groups of kids to a hotel pool in Accra for the past two Saturdays, and we will continue to do so until all have had the chance to go. It has really been a thrill to watch some of our kids, who with both feet on solid ground are as tough as they come, cling to you for dear life when brought out into the water. While the kids have been to the beach a couple of times before, the feeling of being completely submerged in water is something very foreign, and frankly quite frightening to them. In a funny way, this fear on their part has brought me a happiness that I did not anticipate. Due to their uncertainty with this new environment, the kids tend to express quite often and quite loudly that they need me… and feeling needed feels good. That is a satisfaction that I have never felt before, but I’m going to venture a guess that most mothers out there can relate. However, I must also say that I have been very impressed and proud of how quickly they have picked up the basics and how rapidly their confidence can return. It is such a fun experience that I am so glad to have the ability to share with them!

This week’s boy is someone who is quite precious to me, whose first impressions are not always the greatest, but who has a heart of gold! His name is Enoch and he is a 7 year old boy with more energy than should be contained in only one child. Though his attention span is not long and that often gets him in trouble, he wants so badly and tries so hard to do the right thing. He is a young boy whose character is solid and I can’t wait to see what the Lord does with him in the future!

JOY

2009-03-22T12:29:00.001-03:00

Frustrations were aplenty this week as a small group of boys decided that I am the worst thing that has ever happened to them! I have the uncanny ability to scatter a crowd now!

It’s humorous to write about now but a few days ago, I was not in such a light hearted mood. Following some misbehavior on their part, they received a punishment from their house mother. When I did not “take their side” and supported the mama’s decision, they snapped and began unleashing every hurtful thing they could think of. Later, a hilarious little spy hidden among the boys came to us and rambled off a list of insults that had been thrown out and then said that their main goal was to “pain us”. In other words, these few boys wanted so badly to make Elise and I miserable and they knew that because of our intense love for them, their words would cut us deep. And they did. It’s true what they say, that us humans have the capacity to hurt those who love us the most!

Their initial success in “paining me” was overcome after a little venting and much thought and prayer. I quickly realized that I do not need their approval. I did not come halfway across the world to be liked. That’s what friends and family are for. Rather, I came here to help these kids and to show them the love of Christ, whether that is displayed through a hug or a spanking. Besides that, my joy is not something that is contingent upon the consent of pre-teen boys, but it is something that comes only from the Lord and cannot be stolen. With my revised outlook on the situation, I continued my week killing them with smiles, waves, and as many hugs as I could grab. It frustrated them to no end and while they have not come around yet, I am confident that they will soon forget while they were even upset in the first place! In the meantime, please pray that they will have eyes to see the reason for our discipline and will learn to accept our love.

Additionally, please pray for Kofi. She is a quiet 9 year old girl who works hard in school, especially English. She enjoys playing dress up with the little girls and is a great football player. It took us a much longer time to get to know the real Kofi because of her shyness, but her amazing character is now very evident to us. Pray that the Lord would bless her with a boldness to accompany her other great attributes!

Reflections...

2009-03-15T06:26:00.001-03:00

Throughout the course of this past week, much of my time after school has been spent writing the final exams for the end of second term. I can hardly believe that that time has already come around… again. Having been here for nearly 7 months now, I find myself thinking more and more about coming home. However, in thinking about coming home, I find myself thinking even more about how much I will miss these kids that have been my whole life for so long. So along that line of thought, I’d like to share a short list of things that make me happy as I think about my time here so far.

- The greenness of Ghana
- A crowded tro tro playing country music
- Having a baby tied on my back
- The way the kids take care of each other
- Rainy afternoons
- Getting stuck in that afternoon rain
- The kid’s laughter
- When they talk really fast to each other in twi
- The white powder they put on their black skin after they bathe!
- Taking them on walks
- Teasing them and letting them tease me back
- Prince’s prayers
- Kwame’s laugh
- Abigail’s dance moves
- Gabriel’s dimples
- Bernice’s voice
- Stephen’s stubbornness
- Sylvester’s goals
- Reading bedtime stories
- The joy that is found in small pleasures
- Drawing Disney characters with them
- Being independent and learning how to get around in a foreign place
- Seeing the stars at night
- Dancing to High School Musical
- The look on a student’s face when they “get” something
- Hearing that student teach another student
- Super speedy worship music (with a double clap)
- Seeing bright white teeth outside my window at night
- Fried plantain and honey
- Our vegetable lady
- When the kids hold my hand
- Trying to kiss them goodnight as they pretend to hate it!

Fifi is our precious 10 year old boy this week. He is a rock solid kid who you can always count on and who can withstand more pain than most, but is as tender hearted and caring as any I’ve ever met. He is also a big help with the little kids and has a sweet spirit about him. Please pray that he will be encouraged and that his spirit will be lifted up and he grows in age.

A week of CELEBRATIONS!

2009-03-08T06:24:00.003-03:00

A burial celebration, my birthday celebration, and Ghana’s 52nd Independence Day celebration were all mixed into this week’s regular schedule.

While the first may sound slightly strange, it was actually a very unique and joyful experience for Elise and I as we attended on behalf of one of our students from the village nearby whose uncle had passed away. I have only been present at a couple of funerals in my life and both were rather somber, but this was a party in every sense of the word! The whole village attended, bringing out hundreds of friends and family. They were all dressed in bright clothing. There were traditional drums and dancing going on in one area while an enormous sound system played music in another area. People all around us were dancing, playing, laughing and singing (and bringing us into it all as well) as they celebrated the life of the deceased. It was wonderful and it is exactly the way that I think funerals should be!

Two days later, I celebrated my 23rd birthday with a full day of school, lots of hugs from the kids, a conglomeration of cards, letters, and drawings, a little bit of laundry, some homemade meatloaf, brownies, and a good movie! While it was pretty low key and much like an ordinary day here, I know it was probably the most unique birthday I will ever have.

Then on Friday, the kids and I, the house mamas and the cooks all piled into the small dining hall to watch the Independence Day parade on the television. Unlike our fireworks and festivals in the United States, kids from schools all over the country travel to march at Independence Square in Accra, Ghana. They are accompanied by the nation’s soldiers, and the military is put on display by land, air, and sea. It was interesting to watch, but what was even more interesting was the pride and patriotism that our kids display in regards to the love of their country. Maybe it is something that has been lost throughout the generations in America, and maybe our independence is something that we simply take for granted, but having achieved their independence only 52 short years ago, this nation of Ghana is well aware of it’s value and they thank God daily for it!

Now, Victory, Victoria, and Comfort are our children of the week, being our three baby girls. These three beautiful toddlers are two years old and bring so much life to the girl’s dorm and to the entire compound. Please pray for the growth and development of their bodies and individual personalities as they are raised in this place!

Beautiful Misadventures

2009-03-01T05:19:00.001-04:00

Haven of Hope Academy got two days off this week to mark the midway point of our second term. So to celebrate, we took the kids to a place that is a favorite among locals called Boti Falls. We inquired whether or not this would be the best time to go since we are right in the middle of dry season, but everyone assured us that it would be great! So we all piled into the vans with 2 huge coolers full of rice and headed to the falls, but upon our arrival we discovered that the falls were really not falling at all. I was pretty disappointed as we walked a couple hundred steps down to where the waterfall pools and was afraid the kids would be severely disappointed as well. Instead of feeling bad for themselves though, they ran as fast as they could, shedding clothing along the way, and dove straight into the small pool of water where the falls usually descend. It was a beautiful sight. I was so proud as my kids taught me a lesson in making the most out of every situation!

After the kids had their fill of swimming in only a few feet of water, we went on a little hike to an area nearby that is the sight of what the Ghanaians call “umbrella rock.” Elise and I braved it and climbed the shaky bamboo ladder to the top and were met with a breathtaking view. We all ate our lunch, piled back into the vans wet and smelly, and drove home full and happy. That trip could have gone a lot differently and in the end made all of us miserable if it wasn’t for the glorious optimism of our children! There is so much they can teach us if we have the patience to listen and observe.

Paa Kwesi is the boy of the week and is also a student of mine! He is 8 years old and has a smile to melt even the hardest heart. He is very bashful and gets embarrassed easily when I smile back at him. He is a very smart kid but struggles with motivation in school, as I think is the case with many of the students. In a culture that relies very heavily on manual labor and street sellers, I can understand that it would be difficult to see a different future for yourself and therefore see a reason for your hard work in continuing education. I ask that you join me in praying that these kids see a glimmer of hope in a continent that has very little, and that they will remain motivated to work hard in school and change their futures and the future of Ghana!

Where's Waldo?

2009-02-22T09:15:00.001-04:00

I never thought I would feel so comfortable being in a position where I stick out like a neon zebra!

For the past two weeks, I have been singing in the temporary choir (while the regular members get a break) at Calvary Baptist Church, the church that we attend in the city. I am one of two white people in the choir and only one of five in the whole congregation. It has been such an exhilarating and eye opening experience for me. First of all, I love being in a position to watch a congregation of several hundred Ghanaians worshipping in a manner that is more free and uninhibited that I have ever witnessed before. There are so many things that often stand in our way of expressing our worship to God so unreservedly. If any of you are anything like me and even the slightest bit honest with yourself, you may worry about any variety of things: who is standing next to you, what they may think, or what they may say to other people after church? Am I acting too conservative, too charismatic? Do I appear authentic, or will others think I’m faking? Or best of all… how do I look? Sometimes it can be just as hard or harder to focus on God in church than anywhere else. I know that there have got to be concerns of a similar nature here and all over the world, but it is apparent that those superficial concerns are of far less value to the people here. Then, in addition to enjoying the observation of that unrestrained and natural worship, I absolutely love the fact that I can also express myself so freely without fear of being judged. When there is less to hinder our communication with God and less junk fills our minds, the intimacy with Him is unreal! It is not our outward actions or appearance but the condition of our hearts that conveys our adoration. I hate that it has taken me so long to really realize that. Better late than never.

In a powerful song, “Clear the Stage” by Ross King, he describes what true worship looks like and in some cases, what it may take to get there.

“Clear the stage and set the sound and lights ablaze if that’s the measure you must take to crush the idols.
Jerk the pews and all the decorations too until the congregation’s few then have revival.
Tell your friends that this is where the party ends; until you’re broken for your sins you can’t be social.
Then seek the Lord and wait for what He has in store and know that great is your reward so just be hopeful.
‘Cause you can sing all you want to. Yes you can sing all you want to. You can sing all you want to, but don’t get me wrong, worship is more than a song.”

This week, I’d like to introduce you to Attah. While I think that all of our kids here are beautiful in their own way, I think that she is a truly gorgeous girl. She is 11 years old, in P5, and almost too mature for her age. Please keep her in mind and in your prayers as you go through your week!

Security or Service?

2009-02-15T08:01:00.003-04:00

Monday through Wednesday of this week provided a much need respite from the daily stresses of working with these needy kids. I joined Elise’s family in traveling west of Accra to a town called Anomabo to enjoy a stay on the beach for a couple of days. The weather was beautiful, the waves were large, the food was great and the company was pleasant. I boogey boarded, read some books, listened to music, walked along the shore line, and watched the locals drag in their fish nets. All in all, it was a wonderful trip.

While I was gone, Carolyn, one of the other women here, offered to take my class for me. I prepared extremely detailed lesson plans for her and did everything short of threatening the kids that if they did not mind Miss Carolyn, they would have to deal with me when I got home. I have dealt with a number of trials with my students, some small and others much larger, but in the end, I love them dearly. The funny thing about my trip to the beach was that in the midst of my relaxation, I couldn’t stop thinking about my kids and how they were doing, whether or not they were obeying, and if they missed me. It was all too clear to me how much I missed them. As I sat on the lounge chairs and stared out at the sea, I realized that no matter how big my class is or how overwhelming it gets, how bratty the kids can be or how much they fight me, I love them and I wouldn’t have it any other way. If they were any better, I'd probably be bored. I know and have known for a long time that I am a person that NEEDS to be challenged. I thrive on the difficulty of my class. Complacency, security, safety, routine, and comfort are not words that excite me. God has placed in me a desire to be tested and stretched and pushed to the limits. It is then, at my breaking point, that I feel most alive. It is then that I am able to be used most effectively. I feel like it is in those situations that my pride is destroyed and my focus is really where it should be. Often times, whether it is intentional or not, I believe the church can stifle the passion in people by emphasizing things like security and comfort. Prayers to prosper us are often more common than the humble prayer to use us, no matter the cost. The places that need the influence of Christ the most are often the places that Christians are afraid to go. It is true that we are God’s children and he will never abandon us, but it is crucial that we understand that he promises us spiritual security, not always physical safety or financial well-being. He has big plans for us if we can put our fears aside and let Him take us where He wants to take us and challenge us like we need to be challenged! He promises us life and life to the fullest but we must make the choice to take advantage of that life. To live a fearless life of reckless abandonment with a full faith in God’s guiding hand is the greatest thing I can ask for!

Abraham is a young boy who demonstrates that fearless attitude in his everyday life! I can’t tell you how many times he fell off the skateboards they got for Christmas, or how many scars adorn his legs from climbing trees, playing football, or creating games of his own. All of the kids really display that zest for life and the passion to live it to the fullest; and it’s contagious. Abraham is a 10 year old in P4 and has been such a joy to get to know! I pray that he, and all of the kids, never lose that fearless passion to get the most out of life!

Breaking Down Walls

2009-02-08T04:59:00.002-04:00

Again, we had a busy week! We went on walks, played with water balloons and bows and arrows, killed snakes, practiced our times tables, and welcomed two new kids into the Haven of Hope family! We had a blast, and then to top it off, Elise’s family arrived here in Ghana for a two week visit late Thursday evening.

However, in the midst of all the excitement I found myself extremely homesick for the first time since I have been here. As Elise showed her sister around the compound, I thought about all of the people at home that I would love to be able to experience what I am doing here. I got caught up in the moment and shed my fair share of tears. Visibly upset, I had to pull myself together and head to my classroom for the morning assembly. Because the kids are the most observant and blunt kids in the world, I was suddenly swarmed with attention and questions as to the cause of my tears. Instead of pretending I wasn’t sad, I decided to humble myself and explain to the kids that I was missing my family and friends at home. I believe my answer actually took them by surprise and they asked “Well then do you want to go home?” After I thought about it for a second, I realized it was an easy answer, “No”. While I miss you all very much, I know beyond a shadow of a doubt that I am right where I am supposed to be, following God’s will for my life, whether I can see the purpose in it or not. And just when I thought I couldn’t see the purpose, a small bit was revealed to me. Through our discussions about how I was feeling about home, many of the kids opened up for the first time about their feelings about their home. Particular kids who have been very hard and guarded were able to see my humanity in my emotion and came around to sharing some of their thoughts, even if just for a short time. I am always blessed to see how God can use the moments that try us the most at the times when we question our purposes, to encourage others and in turn encourage us. He is faithful. God is good.

Seeing as though they are new to our home this week and are probably experiencing some homesickness themselves, I ask that you pray for Anna and Douglas, 8 and 11. Pray that their transition into the home and the school will be smooth and that the rest of our kids will be welcoming and supportive of them during this time. Our other child of the week though is Abigail Yawson. She is a 12 year old girl who walks with more sass in her step that anyone I have ever met. She gives great hugs and has a laugh that instantly makes you crack up. Her spunk and joyfulness are contagious, and I just pray that she learns to use them to spur others on!

Harmattan

2009-02-01T05:39:00.002-04:00

When I come home, one of the first things that I will do is stand in a blistering hot shower for a very long time. Why, you might ask? Besides the fact that our faucet trickles cold water, the weather here in Ghana has been quite strange recently. In fact, I have never seen anything quite like it. The evenings are cooler and the days are still hot and humid, but there is a constant haze in the sky like the morning fog never lifts. This all started a couple weeks ago, around the same time that Elise and I realized our apartment was getting disgustingly dirty really quickly. Finally, when we asked what was going on, someone explained to us that every year during the dry season when the winds pick up and the weather cools down, sand from the Sahara desert gets blown all the way down here. That being said, I thought I was getting a tan when I realized it’s only a layer of sand from the Sahara. Some things you just don’t get used to.

This week I began teaching my kids about the eye and how it works. We used a spoon to simulate how the lens flips things upside down and made 3D paper-maché diagrams of an eyeball! I gave the Wednesday morning message at chapel and made the kids do the YMCA, but with LOVE. I played a lot of basketball and got a lot of letters from pre-pubescent boys. I read some, cleaned some, and cooked some. I was frustrated and stretched, overjoyed and blessed. I went to the youth chapel at Calvary Baptist, which is outstanding, and now I’m ready for another week. “Restore to me the joy of your salvation and grant me a willing spirit to sustain me.” ~ Psalms 51:12

Dua is our boy this week. He is 11 years old and is extremely shy but has been really coming out of his shell recently. He’s very smart and is the fastest at the home (which is no surprise considering he has the longest lankiest legs in the world!). He’s also great with the toddlers and has an enormous heart! Please keep him in your prayers this week!

Of Waakye and Reggae

2009-01-25T05:26:00.003-04:00

“To the weak I became weak to win the weak. I have become all things to all men so that by all possible means I might save some.” ~ 1 Corinthians 9:22

This verse has been one of particular significance to me for several years, but has taken on a whole new meaning since my arrival here in Ghana. While I do not boast any previous experience in missionary work or any degree in such a thing, it has been made very clear to me that in order to reach a people, you need to become like them. If I came to this country whose culture is so vastly different than my own and refused to learn their language, eat their food, ride their transportation, appreciate their music or attempt their dance, I might have saved myself from a lot of embarrassing moments, but I also would not have been able to develop relationships with their people. Elise and I have gotten to know several ladies in the local markets because we choose to do the majority of our shopping in nearby villages rather than at the mall, a location which would maybe be more comfortable for us. We have had countless encounters with the local people in tro tros who are shocked that the obrunis are joining them, but are eager to hear our stories. We eat dinner with the kids several nights a week and have even learned how to pound fried fish, pepper, and onions into a delicious sauce that you eat with yam! And even though it is extremely difficult and opens me up for endless ridicule, I try to learn phrases in Twi from the kids and let them teach me their favorite dance moves. While I thoroughly enjoy all of these things, I also believe that they let the kids here and Ghanaians elsewhere know that we care about them and their culture. Who wants to listen to what you have to say if they think your only purpose in being here is to change them?

Jesus set the ultimate example for us in the fact that He “made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness.” I have rarely heard a more difficult yet feasible challenge. If only we can selflessly humble ourselves to such a point!

In a musical interpretation of the great commission, Derek Webb puts it well.
“Take to the world this love, hope and faith.
Take to the world this rare relentless grace.
And like the three in one, you know you must become what you want to save,
‘Cause that’s still the way He takes to the world.”

This week’s child is Matilda, a sweet 9 year old girl in my class. She is precious and extremely smart, but also extremely chatty. She always finishes her work early and tends to distract the others. Please pray that we work together to find a way to keep her challenged and on task! She has also recently been struggling with an infection in her right eye that is affecting every area of her life, so pray as well for the pain to ease and for complete healing!

Half Way There!

2009-01-18T05:28:00.002-04:00

This week, I have a confession to make. While some may look at what I am doing here in Ghana as brave or noble, I have to admit that I absolutely love every minute of it and there’s nothing I’d rather be doing right now. In that regard, I feel completely undeserving of any praise, as I may be enjoying it all too much to consider it a sacrifice. However, on Friday I was humbled as I learned what it’s like to serve when you don’t particularly want to.

Due to the fact that our weeks are so busy, Elise and I cherish our weekends very much. For us, the weekend starts on Friday at 2, right after the bell! Last week though, Madam Salome, a Ghanaian teacher at our school had a death in the family and invited all of the teachers to attend the funeral for her aunt this Friday afternoon. We debated for some time about whether or not to go because due to commute time, it would take up the entire day. My own selfish attitude thought about how much I could get done during that time or how relaxing a few hours by ourselves would be. After a little coaxing, we decided to make the trek into Accra for the funeral to support Salome during her time of grief. It was the last thing I really wanted to do, but after seeing her face light up at our presence and recognizing her sincere appreciation for us being there, it was worth it. God does not call us to serve others only when it is enjoyable for us, but whenever he presents us the opportunity for service! Let’s jump on those opportunities!

The two boys this week are part of the reason I find little hardship in my service here in Ghana. As you can see from the pictures, their smiles pretty much melt away any anger, frustration, or difficulty I may have faced throughout the day and truly bring joy to my heart. Moses and Gabriel are both three years old and are loved not only by us, but also by all of the other kids here at the home. They are blessed with wonderful “older siblings” who enjoy torturing them as much as they enjoy hugging and kissing on them, but I ask you to pray that they are blessed as they grow up in this loving environment!

A Tribute to Parents

2009-01-11T08:14:00.002-04:00

To anyone who is a parent… I applaud you!

To my own mom and dad, I hate to tell you, but you were wrong. You always said that you only disciplined me because you loved me but that I would never understand that until I had kids of my own. I’m afraid that understanding has far preceded my own children.

Being a surrogate parent of sorts to 45 kids has the tendency to break you quite quickly and teach you to do things you swore you would never do. I always envisioned myself being a “cool” parent and being able to treat my kids more as friends than children, but after only 4 months here at Haven of Hope, I have been made well aware of the fact that children need boundaries and discipline whether it is “cool” or not. This week I have had to deal with one of our oldest boys in a way I never thought I would have to. In addition to disciplining him as his teacher because of disrespect and disobedience in the classroom, I have had to carry out that discipline after school as his mother. It’s terrible. It makes me want to cry. It breaks my heart to punish a boy that I love like my own who has a great heart and an even better smile, but I know it is in his best interest to teach him these lessons now rather than later in life when the consequences will be far greater than extra chores or isolation from his friends!

While I may very well have failed Parenting 101 miserably during the first term, I have high hopes for a passing grade the second time around! In the end, I stand in great appreciation to all you parents out there who struggle with your children day in and day out. Your unconditional care is the closest thing to Christ-like love that we can see in this fallen world. If you are lucky though, your children may have the privilege of seeing how much you loved them one day, even prior to having kids of their own!

Our beautiful child this week is Maabena. She is 5 years old and in Kindergarten. While she is an extremely petite little girl, she plays just as hard as the rest of them and is even growing accustomed to our beastly puppies! She is quite a joy. Please pray for her throughout the week that she would grow strong in the Lord and be a small girl of great courage!

Love,

Lindsay

Happy New Year

2009-01-02T13:27:00.002-04:00

Happy New Year Everybody!

As cliché as it may seem, I spent a good portion of my day yesterday reflecting on some of the ups and downs of 2008. I usually like to set some goals for myself for the New Year, resolutions if you will, but this year I decided that I will forego setting those goals for myself and focus my efforts on the unchanging resolutions that Christ has already set before us, to love our God and love others. I know that is broad, but there’s nothing that can really be added to or taken away from that idea. Despite that simple yet lofty resolution, I know that I will fall short many times. I will continue to experience drastic highs and lows as have been common the past four months. I will know joy and failure, love and loss. But in the end, I look at the following passage from Ecclesiastes and take comfort in Solomon’s wise words and the fact that whatever 2009 may bring, God makes everything beautiful in its time.

There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven:
A time to be born and a time to die,
A time to plant and a time to uproot,
A time to kill and a time to heal,
A time to tear down and a time to build,
A time to weep and a time to laugh,
A time to mourn and a time to dance,
A time to scatter stones and a time to gather them,
A time to embrace and a time to refrain,
A time to search and a time to give up,
A time to keep and a time to throw away,
A time to tear and a time to mend,
A time to be silent and a time to speak,
A time to love and a time to hate,
A time for war and a time for peace.

Our first kid of the new year is Emmanuel Kwesi, an amazing 12 year old boy. Though reluctant to get attached at first, Kwesi has really opened up in the last few weeks, allowing us to see more of his beautiful smile and kind heart. Please pray that we continue to be able to foster our relationship and that he would feel comfortable enough to get out some of the hurt that he keeps neatly tucked away inside.

Merry Christmas!

2008-12-23T07:08:00.001-04:00

As I write this now, small beads of sweat are building up on my face and the closest thing to a Christmas tree is the green construction paper that is taped to our wall. Instead of being near friends and family, I am surrounded by 45 little black kids which 4 months ago were strangers, but now feel like my own. By all typical standards, it does not “feel” like Christmas. However, in many ways, separated from the inundation of the commercialization of the holidays in America, it feels more like Christmas than ever. The calm atmosphere of our remote village, the animals everywhere, the innocence of the children, the warm weather, and the brightness of the stars are all great indications of what it might have been like that first Christmas night. I am thankful for this new perspective I have been given on a holiday whose very origin defines my faith. That being said, please understand that I do not think that decorations, sugar cookies, and shopping are terrible things; we have strung snowflakes from the ceilings, poured sprinkles on doughy reindeers, and were able to purchase a variety of gifts for the children, thanks to the generosity of people at home. The only issue arises when their emphasis minimizes the importance of the baby in a manger. Needless to say, despite those that I miss at home, I am so appreciative of the opportunity to share in this Christmas season with these kids I cherish so much!

This week I ask that you pray for Bless, our second oldest in the home, at 16. I introduced her to you only a couple of weeks ago as she joined us on our excursion to the Volta Region. She is energetic, sarcastic, and has the most contagious laughter! In addition, she thoroughly enjoys attacking and tickling me until I can hardly breathe. I have loved getting to know this amazing girl and look forward to Christmas morning with her and the rest of the family!

Now…

Merry Christmas to all and to all a good night!

Love,
Lindsay

Success?

2008-12-14T07:59:00.001-04:00

This week I fully intended to write a blog inviting you all to a huge pity party I was throwing for myself. After administering the student’s final exams this week I was ultimately very frustrated; however, on Thursday night I got a glimpse of my real purpose here and was again reminded of all that I have to be thankful for and those once insurmountable aggravations were quickly forgotten.

Every Thursday evening in November and December, we have been teaching the kids Christmas songs in the hopes that they may perform them for their mothers if they are able to visit during the holiday season. This week, after feeling emotionally drained and not desiring to teach a new song at all, I trudged down to the dining hall and set up the stereo. My spirits were lifted somewhat as I began to read them the words to “Do You Hear What I Hear”, traditionally one of my favorites. But the real joy came when I watched them sing the words themselves. Encircled by such beautiful children enthusiastically singing about the goodness and light that is brought to us by a sleeping child was more fulfilling than anything I could have asked for. Witnessing that was more rewarding to me than if every student of mine had passed their exams! I suppose I should learn to evaluate success by the standards of the Lord and the knowledge of His love, rather than the standards of the world such as wealth, fame..… and grades.

I want to introduce you to and ask for prayer for Bismark. I guess it is fitting that he be yet another one of my students! He really is a joy and I love him dearly, but he is an 8 year old boy and would much prefer running around catching lizards or playing hot wheels to sitting in school. When forced to sit in class however, he excels in math. He and Richmond are the dynamic duo in P3 and never allow for a dull moment in my class!

I am thinking of you all this Christmas season.

Love,
Lindsay

The REST of the Big Picture

2008-12-05T06:56:00.001-04:00

Last weekend I spent a few days traveling through a part of eastern Ghana called the Volta Region. It is in this region as well as other parts of West Africa including Togo and Benin, that the practice of Trokosi slavery is widespread. It is this region that four of our children at Haven of Hope used to call home.

Trokosi is a belief system in which entire villages believe in and worship a variety of gods. However, in addition to idol worship, this religion requires that in order to atone for sins and appease the gods, one must offer a child, preferably a virgin daughter to the Trokosi priest over the local shrine. That child is then enslaved for a lifetime, at the will and whim of the priest. They are his, for work or for pleasure. There are hundreds of these shrines throughout West Africa, but thanks to the concern and efforts of Every Child Ministries and its full time employees in the Volta Region, three shrines have agreed to the liberation of their slaves just in the past few years and another is being negotiated at this time, hoping for another liberation ceremony in the summer of 2009!

As I mentioned, four of our children come from this region of the country and our mission last weekend, at their request, was to take them to their former homes in order to greet what may remain of their families. While each reunion had its own unique circumstance, their commonality was a lack of attachment, emotion, and love in each instance. As we passed from Sogokopie to Aflau over countless rivers and through soaring coconut trees, I began to ask myself what it was that made these reunions different from those we had witnessed previously in Accra. As much as I tried to avoid the Sunday school answer, it was the only answer that made any sense. The difference was God. Even though they have struggled through poverty, prostitution, and despair, many of the mothers in the streets of Accra know God and believe in the sacrifice of His son. These families in the Volta Region, who participate in an idol worshipping, child enslaving religion completely devoid of the knowledge of the one true God, know nothing of love because God is love. Today I ask that you pray for ECM and its employees in the Volta Region ministering daily to those trapped in the Trokosi traditions, that they may radiate Christ’s love in a land where there is very little.

Additionally, I ask that you pray for our child of the week, or in this case, children. Grace is a 17 year old girl with a beautiful one year old baby boy named Seyram. She and her baby accompanied us on our venture to the east. Once a Trokosi slave herself, she now bares the scars of her tribe etched on her face, a constant reminder of her thorny past. Please pray the she will be able to see herself as a desirable young woman and not something that has been simply used and discarded. Pray that she will be encouraged as she cares for her child and sees the miracle of life that she has been blessed with.

Thanks!

Love,
Yevu (the word for white girl in yet another tribal language of Ghana!)

Is Laughter the Best Medicine?

2008-11-22T10:48:00.005-04:00

Veering off from the thought provoking entries of late, I want to fill you in on some of the more humorous happenings!

You know you’re in Africa when…

… A lizard crawls up your leg, across your body, and jumps off your neck while you’re in church.

… Your most boyish boys wear pink velvet shorts, a pink Winnie the Pooh t-shirt, and watch Barbie’s 12 Dancing Princesses.

… You hear a Celine Dion song as a ringtone on a grown man’s phone and nobody laughs but you.

… You get proposed to on a daily basis, even if you haven’t shaved your legs in weeks.

… A simple trip to the market is also a muddy danger zone. But don’t worry, the heavy rains will clean you off on your walk home!

… A tractor is the equivalent of a roller coaster.

… A 14 year old boy’s favorite song is “Kiss the Girl” from the Little Mermaid.

… Kids don’t wait for fruit to ripen and fall off. Instead, they scale 20 foot paw paw trees and pick it off themselves.

… Laundry day turns into a fashion show.

… A child’s idea of a pet is a beetle that they caught and tied to a string.

… Your class time is disrupted when the students spot a crab and a bird chasing each other outside your room (see video blelow).

… You are hardly recognizable in your visa photos due to the layer of dirt, beads of sweat, and lack of makeup that adorn your face.

… Instead of “Sweet Home Alabama”, kids think that Lynyrd Skynyrd once sang about “Sweet Home Obama”.

… You lose in a foot race to 10 year old boys who are half your size.

… Friday night entertainment consists of coloring a cardboard refrigerator box! (Ok, so maybe that one isn’t just for Africa. Can you blame me?)

In addition to praying for my sanity in dealing with all of these ridiculous events, please pray for Richmond! He is one of the little honeys in my class (and I do mean little). He is only 8 years old and in P3 which means he is ahead of the game! He is an absolute joy to have in class because not only is he bright, but also more than willing to volunteer and participate (which is always much appreciated). Pray that his sweet personality will flourish in this place and that the older boys surrounding him will lift him up!

Love,
Lindsay

Two Sides of the Same Coin

2008-11-16T08:06:00.003-04:00

This past week at the street ministry, I simultaneously experienced firsthand the joy and the despair that an unexpected or unwanted child can produce. What an overwhelming rush of emotions that can be for just one day!

Under the advice of the street ministry director Felicia, we have begun taking a handful of children from our home each week to Accra to see their mothers. Some of the mothers are able to visit the children once a year at the home, but most of them have not seen their kids since they were brought here nearly 7 years ago. This week, we took 6 kids with us, one of which was Stephen. He is a kid, who as I have explained before, is wild and stubborn and has absolutely stolen my heart. Naturally, I was eager to see the relationship between him and his mother. Almost immediately after exiting the van, he spotted her and they literally ran to each other and embraced. All of that hardness and resistance that he uses to guard himself, simply melted away in his mothers arms. Their smiles were beautiful and there was a visible joy shared between them. This child who at one time was nothing but a burden was now an incredible gift!

Now on the other hand, I also had an encounter with some of the most distraught women I have ever met. In an attempt to find the mother of a young girl who was new in the area, Felicia and I wandered from the common area where the service is held to some outlying places near the railroad station where people make their permanent homes in makeshift tents and abandoned marketplaces. In our meanderings, we came to a public shower room. Felicia quickly explained to me that this is where she spends a good deal of her time, and I would soon understand why. Inside this shower room were several very pregnant women sprawled out on the floor. One woman was completely naked but lacked the dignity or self-respect to be fazed by these strangers seeing her and her enormous belly entirely bare. Their few belongings were in scattered piles and smiles were nowhere to be seen. These are the women who already cannot take care of themselves and are stuck in the deep depression of wondering how they will ever take care of a child. Felicia explained that she spends much time here in order to discourage them from aborting their own babies. While clinical abortions are illegal here in Ghana, the grief that can lead to one is still very real.

In his book The Irresistible Revolution, Shane Claiborne says “If I am going to discourage abortion, I had better be ready to adopt some babies and take care of some mothers.” I saw the need for both of those things very clearly that day and will never be able to forget it. May we all have the courage to back up our beliefs with unwavering action!

Our girl today is Afua. She is 10 years old, fun-loving and very energetic. She enjoys getting together with girls to learn dances, and teaming up with boys to play basketball. I told her that I was going to be writing about her this week and she told me to let you all know that she needs prayer for her homework right now, as she is in P5 and struggling with the concept of area in math. Please pray that she continues to thrive in her studies, but that she also continues to be a good influence on the younger girls (like the ones in my class!).

Love,
Lindsay

Poverty

2008-11-08T11:43:00.011-04:00

Sometimes poverty is difficult to grasp when it’s such a far cry from the comfort and ease of the places we call home. Sometimes the idea of 22 percent unemployment leaves you speechless. This whole concept and what we can do about it is something that I have thought much about and struggled with for a long time, but even more so being here. Strangely enough I keep being brought back to a handful of lyrics from a couple different songs that coincide with scripture. Just something to think about…

Solution – Hillsong United
“It is not a human right to stare not fight, while broken nations dream. Open up our eyes so blind that we might find the Mercy for the need! It is not too far a cry, too much to try to help the least of these. Politics will not decide if we should rise and be Your hands and feet!

Singing, hey now fill our hearts with your compassion. Hey now as we hold to our confession. God be the solution, we will be your hands and be your feet…

Only You can mend the broken heart, and cause the blind to see, erase complete the sinners past and set the captives free. Only You can take the widow's cry and cause her heart to sing, Be a Father to the fatherless, our Savior and our King. We will be Your hands, we will be Your feet, we will run this race for the least of these. In the darkest place, we will be Your light, we will be Your light!”

And believe it or not:

Man In the Mirror – Michael Jackson
I’m gonna make a change for once in my life.
It’s gonna feel real good, gonna make a difference, gonna make it right.

As I turn up the collar on my favorite winter coat this wind is blowing my mind
I see the kids in the street without enough to eat.
Who am I to be blind, pretending not to see their need?

A summer’s disregard, a broken bottle top, and one man’s soul,
They follow each other on the wind you know, cause they got nowhere to go.
That’s why I want you to know…

I’m starting with the man in the mirror. I’m asking him to change his ways.
And no message could have been any clearer: If you want to make the world a better place, take a look at yourself and then make a change!

I’ve been a victim of a selfish kind of love, it’s time that I realize.
There are some with no home, not a nickel to loan
Could it be really me, pretending that they’re not alone?
A widow deeply scarred, somebody’s broken heart, and a washed out dream.
They follow the pattern of the wind you see, cause they’ve got no place to be.
That’s why I’m starting with ME!

Please pray this week for Christian, who is an incredibly handsome 14-year old boy from the Volta Region of Ghana. From his positive attitude and huge smile, you would find it hard to believe that he was formerly enslaved in the Trokosi traditions, his father being a Trokosi priest. He has come so far and exudes such a joy that you are simply drawn to him! Lift him up this week, praising God for the young boy that he is and for the young man that he will soon become.

Love,
Lindsay

Tricks and Treats!

2008-11-02T08:01:00.002-04:00

Well friends, on Monday of this week I experienced a setback as far as the progress of my students. As usual, we have been getting a lot of rain, but this day we could see the clouds very dark and low in the sky for the majority of the morning. Reminding you of the fact that I teach in an open activity center with a tin roof and no walls, you can only imagine the kind of work that is (or is not) completed during times of rain. However, this particular day not only did we lose valuable class time, but a lot of our supplies as well. Sure enough at about 1:30, the rain came pouring down. Combined with the wind, the rain more or less flew in sideways through the activity center, showering my class, all of our textbooks, and many of the notebooks we use for exam notes. I was so frustrated! It wasn’t like we had much to begin with, and now what we did have was either damaged or ruined! I stood there soaked and defeated.

The next morning, I was able to gain some perspective on my situation as my devotional referred to the story of Jesus feeding the 5,000 with just a few loaves and fish. At first glance I thought little of it since it was a story that I had heard a “million” times and I “obviously” knew everything about it. But after a little thought I realized the stupidity of my assumption and discovered much more. I so often limit God by not truly believing that He can do all He promises to do. If He was able to feed 5,000 hungry people with very little food, who am I to say that He can’t simply help educate 15 eager students with very little supplies? The rest of the week went well and much was accomplished with very little. Praise Him!

Other highlights of the week included teaching some of the boys how to play baseball, having a candlelit dinner club with our older kids due to power outages, trick or treating as ghosts at the other missionary’s homes, and enjoying our second of many dance parties in the dining hall (it would have made my roommates so proud)!

To finish, Bernice is our woman of the week! She is a beautiful 15 year old girl who is very gifted academically and has read nearly every book that I brought with me! Additionally, she displays a sincerity in her faith and a passion for her Savior that is unmatched by any girl her age that I have ever met, and even more so than most adults. Please lift her up this week, praising God for her life and asking him to utilize those gifts that she has been blessed with.

Love,
Lindsay

Facing the Waves

2008-10-25T08:07:00.002-03:00

It is true that God chooses to speak to his children through a variety of avenues. He may choose to reveal Himself through a piece of art, literature, or music, through His creation, or even in silence. I have never in my life experienced His majesty so great though, as I have here through the lives of these kids. I am constantly being taught more and more about the character of God through tiny moments with the children.

This week at the beach was just as amazing as I had hoped. The kids were well behaved and we all had a blast. Besides sparing the Obrunis from our sunburns, we couldn’t have asked for anything more! There was one peculiar behavior that I noticed was common among all the children though. They all stayed in only inches of water and flopped around enjoying themselves wildly, remaining where they were comfortable, fearing the unknown. However, I decided to take one child at a time further out into larger waves. I have never felt such an unyielding grip on my arms as I did when they saw a wave, bigger than they were used to, heading towards us. There were seconds of terror followed by shouts of laughter and glee! All the while, the grip on my arms never loosened. After those first couple waves, they had full trust in me that I would not let them go. That is real faith! Clinging to the only one who can keep you from harm and trusting that they know what is best for you. More eloquently put, Oswald Chambers said, “Faith never knows where it is being led, but it knows and loves the one who is leading.”

Hebrews chapter 11 tells countless stories of regular people who, by faith, “conquered kingdoms, administered justice, and gained what was promised; who shut the mouths of lions , quenched the fury of the flames, and escaped the sword; whose weakness was turned to strength” (33-34). However, it also tells stories of numerous others who “were tortured and refused to be released, so that they might gain a better resurrection” (35). I pray that, while we may be clueless as to what our futures have in store, we will press on with full faith in our Creator, facing the waves and clinging tight to His arm!

This week, the child I want to share with you about is one that I have been particularly drawn to. His name is Stephen and he is 11 years old. He is an extremely lively and passionate boy with great artistic ability, leadership, and an unbelievable stubborn streak! Somehow I have been able to fight stubbornness with stubbornness and connect with him in a rewarding little friendship. He is very dear to me because I see that if his energy is directed at something positive, he has incredible potential! Please pray that God will continue to bless our friendship and guide him as he develops his various talents!

Thanks!

Love,
Lindsay

Break Time!

2008-10-19T10:17:00.002-03:00

I am writing today having just completed the first half of the first term of my school year here at Haven of Hope! Only 4 more to go! I can’t believe how fast the time is going and can’t possibly comprehend how difficult it is going to be to leave these kids when the time comes. It has been such a joy, in just the two short months that we have been here, to see each one of the children begin to display their individual personalities with their funny quirks and attitudes. Even though the time has gone quickly, it has not been easy. This coming week we are receiving a much needed rest from the daily frustrations, the ups and downs of being in the classroom with these needy children!

School will be not be in session for the midterm break this coming week and we will have a chance to relax and do some fun things with the kids. One thing in particular, I am just as excited about as they are. On Wednesday, we are taking a trek to the beach! I am looking so forward to enjoying one of God’s most awe inspiring creations with them, some of whom have never seen the ocean before. It will be an amazing time of soccer playing, swimming, learning, and worship… and I can’t wait. And because I can’t wait, I have already begun preparations for our grand adventure. How? You may ask. Well, by painting all of the girls toenails of course! For the past few days in the afternoon, I have become the town pedicurist and I have enjoyed every tiny toe! It has been a great time to spend with the girls, pampering them and reassuring them that they are beautiful, loved by me and by God! They have just been eating it up, enjoying the one on one time and showing off their freshly colored toes to anyone who cares to listen. I know that I have enjoyed the one on one time just as much though. Fyodor Dostoyevsky once said, “The soul is healed by being with children”, and I think he nailed it! The sound of their laughter and the joyous chatter between themselves somehow helps to bring clarity to your thoughts, and delight to your heart.

Finally, this week’s child is Georgina. She is a gorgeous 10 year old girl who is a talented artist with a gentle spirit. She is a quiet leader among the girls and I pray that she will continue to grow spiritually and academically, setting a great example for the other children!

Thanks!

Love,
Lindsay

Let That Be Enough

2008-10-11T07:33:00.002-03:00

Some moments in time stick out in your mind much more than others. It always seems that those moments, no matter how far removed from the present they become, are never any less vivid as you replay them in your head. This week, I experienced several of those moments, but the circumstances of one seemed especially precious. On Wednesday night, Elise and I headed to the boys dorm to read their nightly story. Only a couple of minutes after stepping foot in their room at about 7:30, the lights turned off for the evening. We thought about just waiting until the next evening, but due to the desperate pleas of the boys, decided to read the chapter by the light of a torch (what they call a flashlight). It was Elise’s turn to read, so I took my place along one of the other walls and was instantly surrounded by little white eyes and bright white smiles amidst the darkness. The boys in particular are always affectionate, but the extent to which they longed to be right by my side was greater than usual. As she began to read, some placed their heads on my legs, my hands, my shoulders, and stomach. They just wanted to be near, to be held, to be loved. One of the boys actually took my arm and placed it around his shoulders so my hand rested gently on his chest. I couldn’t decide whether I should cry out of joy at the privilege of being with these kids, or cry out of sorrow at the fact that the reason these boys longed to be touched so badly is because it was something they were deprived of for so long. I still don’t know which reason it was, but my eyes welled up and eventually streamed down, landing on one of the boy’s cheeks. He didn’t move. Neither did anyone else. All of them had fallen fast asleep.

Needless to say, I have been learning a lot since my arrival here. One of the lessons I keep being brought back to, is what it means to really rest in Him and not need anything more. I think that moment on the evening of October 8th was a beautiful picture of the contentment that can be found in Christ. Those boys wanted nothing from me, but to be near me. They didn’t ask for anything, not even a back rub or a blanket. They simply nuzzled themselves as close as they could and rested. I mean really rested. The Psalmist writes “Find rest, O my soul, in God alone; my hope comes from Him” (62:5). Being literally hurled out of my comfort zone, there has been little to find rest in. My friends and family are many miles away and my intellect, abilities, and even my college education continually leave me longing. Thankfully, after my many failed attempts at success by my own might, I crawl back to Him and find a place to lay my head on His shoulder. There I find rest. It is only there that I find hope.

“Let me know that you hear me
Let me know your touch
Let me know that you love me
And let that be enough”
~Switchfoot

This week’s kid is the oldest boy at our home. His name is Sylvester and he is 14 years old, but cannot read at all. For most of his life, he worked small jobs on the street and tried hard to survive along with his siblings. As can be imagined, school was never really a priority. He is a passionate and caring boy who has big dreams and aspirations. He often talks of his goal to be a lawyer one day, but right now we are starting small. Please pray that progress in his academic subjects would be quick as he has much catching up to do, but more importantly that he will not lose hope in the process!

Please also continue to pray for Abdul as we attempt to contact authorities and social welfare in order to locate his father and bring about his return.

Thanks!

Love,
Lindsay

(we are now becoming recognized faces in many of the places we frequent, so the cries to Obruni are heard less often)

Soccer Mom

2008-10-05T10:04:00.004-03:00

If the town of Medie had a newspaper, this week’s headline would read “Haven of Hope and Rafiki Split Matches!” In other words, we had the most anticipated football (soccer) matches in Medie history this weekend! Our boys and girls formed two teams and played against the boys and girls at Rafiki, the orphanage nearby. On Friday night, we pulled out 3 large bags of cleats, shin guards, and socks that had been donated, and dispersed them to as many kids as they could fit. I then told them all to be at our porch at 9:00am to begin the half hour walk to the field. Not to my surprise we heard most of them stirring around on the porch at about 7:30. Some of the kids said they couldn’t sleep because they were so excited while others said they had dreams that we beat them 1,000 to 0. The final scores were 1-0 in favor of Haven of Hope girls, and 0-2 for Rafiki boys. Now I am not a mother and don’t know what it is like to cheer for my child or applaud my own flesh and blood, but I do know that on Saturday morning, I felt like I had 30 kids of my own that were playing with all their hearts and I couldn’t have been more proud. While washing 30 little pairs of socks and smelling 30 little pairs of cleats was not that much fun, I wouldn’t have traded the whole experience for anything!

Even though the anticipation of the “big game” lasted all week, life did proceed as normal. On Thursday, another American couple arrived who will also be staying long term. Jerry and Ruth Ann Gowin will be taking over leadership of the school which is much needed. I am excited about Jerry’s urgency to get things into shape and can’t wait to see some organizational changes around here!

The child of the week this week comes with a very specific and urgent prayer request. Abdul is an 11 year old boy (another student of mine) who comes from a Muslim background. Earlier in the week, his mother came to the home for the first time in the six years that he has been here, stating that she wanted to take him for a few days so he could celebrate Ramadan. The contracts that are signed when the children are brought here allow the parents short periods of visitation off campus. Social services agreed that he could leave, under the condition that he be returned before Saturday evening. He still has not been returned. Please pray that they will return Abdul as soon as possible, or if need be, that we would all have the wisdom to deal with the situation as quickly and effectively as possible to locate him and bring him back home!

Thanks!

Love,
Obruni

Push Start Public Transportation

2008-09-29T16:00:00.002-03:00

Awesome week this week friends! I have been able to see a distinct difference in the behavior of my students. By Tuesday, the majority of my students were focused and on task, completing their work, asking questions, and working together! I think that the change was instigated by my altered perspective and therefore lessened visible frustrations. In turn, they are responding to me even better. All relationships within the classroom are much more positive and now, the learning can occur, though very slowly (huge sigh). It doesn’t hurt that I have also begun a type of reward system in which the students can earn points for positive behavior throughout the week and then on Friday, the student with the most points receives a butterscotch candy! Oh the wonders that food can do around here! At dinner club this week, 6 kids, all but one under the age of 10, ate 2 full packages of spaghetti noodles. We were absolutely shocked as they all continued to file into the kitchen and refill their plates! Shortly after we first arrived here, Prince told us that “whoever has food has power”, a bold statement that is right in more ways than he could have possibly understood.

Now for those of you who have ever seen the movie Little Miss Sunshine, this next story may be a little easier for you to visualize. Elise and I have been taking the tro tros everywhere since we got here and are getting pretty good at getting around downtown. So, on Saturday, we took Miss Carolyn with us to try and find the Accra Mall (which ended up being really nice) and just wander around some. On the way there, prior to our first stop, our tro tro stalled and would not start back up again. A few men piled out of the van and started pushing it until it hit first gear, they were able to start it up again, and then struggle to jump back in the moving vehicle. This happened several more times before we reached our destination. Then on the way back, we apparently chose a faulty car again and continued to witness this hysterical event all the way home to Medie! This experience not only provided us with a lot of laughter and a really good story, but also a new perspective on thankfulness. I found myself in those moments thanking God for the little things. I was thankful for the laughter. I was thankful for the cool breeze. I was thankful for the kindness of the people here. In Paul’s first letter to the people in Thessalonica, he says “Be joyful always, pray continually, give thanks in ALL circumstances.” It does not say to give thanks only when things are good, only when your tro tro works properly and you arrive at your destination in time, but in each and every circumstance. While I experienced a single moment in which I thanked God in a slightly unpleasant circumstance, I have been so humbled by seeing that thankful heart in our children here day in and day out. They constantly thank Him for waking them up in the morning and giving them a bowl of rice for lunch and dinner. They thank Him for the health of the little kids, and the chickens and goats. They thank Him for the chance to go to school and for our families letting us come here to stay with them. These children who have very little are the first to thank Him for every single thing that they do have. May we, who have so much, not take anything for granted, and learn to thank Him in ALL circumstances.

This week’s child is Mary, though she is not much of a child anymore. She is 12 years old and is better at soccer than most of the boys. She is very athletic and very smart, but her standoffish attitude can make it difficult to get close to her. We are in the process of breaking through those walls and connecting with this beautiful girl. Please pray for our efforts!

I love you all and hope things are going well at home too. Keep me updated!

Love,
Obruni

Dancing Baptists!

2008-09-21T16:54:00.001-03:00

Again, first things first, I believe that I should let you in on some big praises and answered prayers! Now a month in, Elise and I have remained healthy as ever and are optimistic about it staying that way. We also met a few other Americans last week that work at an orphanage called Rafiki only a couple of miles away. They are all very sweet and have offered to have us over any time we like! I firmly believe that God knew that my social personality couldn’t do this alone and He has surely provided me with the companionship that I need to keep going! Thanks for those prayers!

“Let them praise his name with dancing and make music to him with tambourine and harp.”
~ Psalms 149:3.
I think that I have a much better idea of what that really looks like after last Sunday. Elise and I were invited by one of the teachers that we work with to attend church with her at Shepherd Baptist. So, after hopping 3 different trotros (which come to find out, are what “cho chos” are actually called), we arrived at a school building with hard metal chairs, a pulpit, and few drums and a large red rug in the middle. Immediately I knew I was in for a treat. Most of the service was conducted in Twi, which is their common vernacular, but they threw in some English here and there to help us out. However, there is a language that needs no interpretation and that is DANCING! And that is what we did, sure enough, in the middle of that large red rug. We might have been worlds apart in language and background, but here we worshipped the very same Almighty God! Amazing. Plus, who needs workout videos when you tote children around everyday and have 3 hour dance parties every week?

Besides church, a few other highlights of this busy week have included, getting stuck in the mud trying to walk to the market, teaching the kids jump rope tricks, getting to the “good part” in Prince Caspian, the incredible storms, and celebrating our one month anniversary by finding a pizza place in Accra!

School is still challenging, but it makes the little improvements all the more exciting. More than anything though, I am beginning to understand that for these kids who have grown up with very little encouragement, my purpose as their teacher is to let them know that they are loved, smart and capable people! Besides that, if I can get them to use their manners and keep from hitting each other from 8:00 – 3:00, then it is a successful day!

On Thursday, a huge blessing arrived from America. Their names are Jim and Carolyn Driscoll and they are going to be long term missionaries here, helping to organize and run the home. The kids absolutely adore them and really respect them more as a mother and father figure, which has already helped in enforcing behaviors and setting schedules. It has also been a welcome change to have someone look after us as we look after all the little ones!

This week’s kid is a sassy little girl in my class. Her name is Tawiah and she is as loud and loving as they get! She is very smart, one of the brightest in my bunch, but can’t keep herself from talking and distracting everyone else. Somehow it’s hard for me to get onto her though, since she kind of reminds me of myself at her age! Please pray specifically for Tawiah this week, that she, with time, would learn how to channel her passions and energies!

Love,
Obruni

The Bigger Picture

2008-09-14T15:35:00.003-03:00

First things first, I want to thank all of you for your overwhelming response to my first update! Your emails and comments were unbelievably encouraging and enjoyable to go through at the café last week. It is so nice to know that I am literally covered in prayer by so many wonderful people throughout the country! So, thank you! Additonally, many of you have asked for my mailing address here in Ghana. Unfortunately, like many other things here, the postal system is extremely unreliable and somewhat corrupt. If packages are sent, they will most likely never be received. So for now, your electronic words of encouragement will have to do, and believe me they are more than enough!

Shortly after my last update, I came across some very insightful information that I feel necessary to share with you so that you may understand the big picture of the organization that I am working with. I got a first hand look at the background of many of the children that live at Haven of Hope, where I am staying and teaching. Contrary to what I had originally thought, Haven of Hope is not an orphanage because that term implies children without parents. Most of these children indeed do have mothers, but it is doubtful they have any idea who their fathers are. After leaving the internet café last week, Elise and I headed to the railway station in Accra where we will be working with ECM’s street ministry every Sunday. Haven of Hope was actually birthed from this original ministry, when they saw the glaring need to bring as many children as possible out of their situation on the streets. In the area where we hold the street ministry, there are sheets and blankets, beer bottles and empty food cans marking the territory of various “families”. This is their home, where they eat, sleep, live, and “work”. A large portion of the women in the area have turned to prostitution as a way to support themselves, but in turn have brought many hurting children into this world. When we walked into the station, we were immediately bombarded with over 50 smiling faces! These were the children that daily live with the consequences of their mother’s poor choices, and they were beautiful. Each week, our organization provides a message, a meal, games, and basic first aid to these amazing children. It was humbling and heart-breaking. Soon after we had arrived, an old woman came up to us and simply said, “Regina and Mary” and pointed to herself. I quickly realized that these two girls that she named from Haven of Hope were her daughters. Again teary-eyed, I tried to explain to her that they are doing well; they are very strong and smart young women. Having now a better understanding of where these children come from and the lives that they have led up to this point has provided me with a new perspective and an abundance of patience as I interact with them daily.

Despite that patience though, the beginning of the school week proved to be quite a challenge. Most of my struggles stem from the fact that my class is the largest in the school with 14 students, 10 boys and 4 girls. Half of them can read at a 1st grade level, and the other half can hardly read at all. Most of them also do not understand respect or hard work because of their backgrounds, providing me with a tough disciplinary issue. And finally, we spend a good deal of time figuring out ways to keep our papers from flying away with the wind, and then chasing them when we are unsuccessful. In the face of those challenges though, by Friday, Ms. Lindsay’s P3 class was having a blast. We were able to laugh and enjoy each other while reading Hop on Pop (my personal favorite), playing flash card games, and digging for earthworms in the black soil.

Elise and I remain busy after school as well. In an attempt to provide some structure and organization for the kids, we are facilitating various clubs Monday through Thursday. Small groups can choose to participate in art, bible, puzzles, and cooking clubs (which leaves Friday and Saturday for market trips and laundry)! We also help the kids with their homework for an hour each night and read a chapter of Prince Caspian before bed. Needless to say, I am usually ready to go to sleep before the kids are! Please pray for endurance for me and Elise as we are completely exhausted, physically and emotionally, by the end of each day!

Finally, the child of the week this week is a little boy that I am extremely fond of (who we affectionately refer to as my hunny bunny). His name is Nii and he is 3 years old. He and his little sister Comfort are the most recent additions to the home. He is such a happy boy (especially when he can play with a ball of any kind) but can also be extremely withdrawn. He has strange scars on his hands and chest that tell stories of his previous situation. I ask that you pray that he will learn boldness and be able to overcome whatever events in his past inhibit his interaction with other children.

Love,
Obruni

The Two Week Mark

2008-09-07T12:53:00.005-03:00

Well friends, it has been 2 weeks now. The days are starting to get busier and the only thing that keeps them from absolutely flying by is my desire to see all of you!

The kids started school on Monday. My classroom consists of one corner of a large covered concrete gym, an old blackboard, and a few wooden desks. One thing is certain, I will never complain about a lack of materials in a classroom in America! As I mentioned before, I am teaching P3, but still do not have all of the books or materials necessary to teach. Also, the age range is more like 8 to 13. Hmmm. Normally, in America, I would be completely stressed out, but nothing seems to be of any urgency around here. We have met the other Ghanaian teachers and they are very sweet, but the lack of organization or motivation is unbelievable. It is not simply an issue with the school or orphanage though; it seems to be pretty common among the rest of the population as well. Frustration! Elise has recently gotten to witness my sarcastic side coming out, as that is how I seem to deal with this frustration best! Sarcasm, along with the occasional reading of Oh, The Places You’ll Go by Dr. Seuss. Both have been pretty therapeutic, but nothing has helped as much as the further understanding of what it means to really abide in the Lord; to remain or endure in Him. It is one thing to say it, and another thing entirely to rely on it in every moment.

On a brighter note (no pun intended) we finally got some electricity this week. It comes on at about 6:00 pm and turns off at about 10:00, but we are usually in bed by then. The running water is still minimal. My roommate and I dart for the shower anytime we hear the generator running. Despite the occasional shower though, it remains absolutely impossible for me to obtain clean feet. I know that many of you may know my tendency for “grocery store feet” but you really have no idea!

Some other highlights of the week have included showering in the rainwatching the Ghana vs. Libya soccer game on the tele, catching bubujas (fireflies), riding a cho cho (their public transportation), putting flying beetles on a string, and watching the Little Mermaid with the kids. They have a small TV in the dining hall and can watch movies on occasion, but I had to spend most of the movie explaining to the kids that we do not have mermaids in America.

Finally, I would like to start sharing with you about specific children that live at Have of Hope from time to time, with specific prayer requests for each. So this week’s child is a boy named Prince. He is 11 years old and we have immediately become buddies. He loves retelling me bible stories and is constantly asking questions about anything and everything. We have been able to share some sweet moments reading books on my porch, and he has an intense desire to learn. I think this is a child that has amazing potential, but is many years behind in his schooling, having arrived here only a year and a half ago. I ask that you pray that he will be provided with all of the necessary tools to not only carry on his education, but be successful and challenged; realizing his full potential.

I hope you are enjoying looking at the pictures I send over email, because I cannot seem to attach them to the blog over here. If any of you are not receiving those emails and would like to, send me a quick note at lindsay.hendrix@gmail.com.

Love,
Obruni

My New Home!

2008-08-28T08:11:00.004-03:00

After 25 hours of travel, we arrived in Accra on Monday at 8:30 pm (we being me and my roommate Elise). At first glance, it looked like most other large cities with lots of billboards and hotels right near the airport. However, as we began traveling away from Accra, towards Medie where Haven of Hope is located, the roads quickly deteriorated. After that ride, I promised that I would never complain about the condition of Tucson roads again.

Arriving late at night with no electricity, and trying to unpack with no place to put anything, was a little depressing. I was totally and completely overwhelmed. Teary eyed, I went to bed beneath my mosquito net to try and get some rest, hoping the morning would be a bit brighter.

And it was. In the morning I saw what I was here for. We were introduced to the kids and got a tour of the orphanage. After a short trip to town to get some groceries and a phone card (so we could finally let our families know that we were still alive), we returned just in time to play a rousing game of “wolves and humans” or something like that. Mostly, it just consisted of us chasing the kids around for an hour. When we went back to our “apartment” to shower, we realized that we had no water and we were out of fuel to pump it. Bummer. I pretty much am planning on smelling myself for 10 months.

The following days have been filled with picking maize (corn) from the farm nearby and learning to carry it on my head, playing in the rain, catching bush rats, taking long walks to see the neighbor’s pigs, chasing snakes through the weeds, and playing red rover in the dark (which is really difficult with black kids J). The kids have more energy than I can handle, being fueled mostly by peanut butter, strawberry jam, beans, and rice. However, I did eat lunch with the kids today. It was a maize cake thing that you eat with your fingers and dip in a super spicy sauce. It tasted decent, but I probably won’t know how it sits until later tonight. Yikes.

There are a few things that I have seen so far that I wish you could experience for yourself because they are hard to comprehend. One being the fact that everywhere you go, there are people on the side of the road selling everything from calling cards to toilet paper to hard boiled eggs. Something that might not be strange to some of you, is that there are goats and chickens everywhere! Finally, the kids here are unbelievably self-sufficient and take care of each other. It was strange for me to see a 6 year old carrying a baby on his back, a 4 year old picking corn, or a 1 year old standing in line to eat lunch just like everybody else.

School starts on Monday, and I am teaching the level P3 which consists of 8-10 year olds according to skill level. I am a little nervous because it is younger than I am used to teaching so I ask that you all pray for the first week to go smoothly and that I will be able to communicate the knowledge and skills necessary for the students’ success.

Also continue to pray for strength from the Lord to persevere through homesickness and long days. I know that if He has brought me this far, he will continue to renew my strength and lift me up on wings like eagles. I will run and not grow weary. I will walk and not be faint!

Thanks again for your prayers! Feel free to comment or ask questions if you have any! I hope to post again next week! I love you all!

Obruni (white girl)

Last update from America!

2008-08-19T19:18:00.003-03:00

5 days and counting...

I took my first of 319 malaria pills this morning. I guess that means there's no turning back now huh?

Please continue to pray, specifically for wisdom and contentment, the ability to rely on God in the absence of my friends and family.

I can't wait to send my first update from my new home! I love you all!

Lessons from Unlikely Places

2008-07-19T20:51:00.006-03:00

For those of you who did not know this about me, I love homeless people. I thoroughly enjoy spending time with them, and believe it or not, homeless people have been a constant source of encouragement in my life.

Today, I was asked for the first time why I wasn't scared to hang out with these homeless men at the park not too far from my house. I hesitated for a moment, which was obviously too long because one of the men answered it for me, meanwhile paying me one of the greatest compliments I have ever received. He said simply, "Don't you see, she's as bold as a lion" and then continued on to quote from Proverbs as well as Paul's second letter to Timothy.

"The wicked man flees though no one pursues, but the righteous are as bold as a lion." - Proverbs 28:1

"For God has not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind." - 2 Timothy 1:7

Just about 5 weeks away from leaving, I am increasingly anxious. Today, I was reminded of where my strength comes from. Thanks Michael!

Closer...

2008-06-29T15:42:00.004-03:00

8 weeks and counting.

My room at my house in Tucson is now filled with boxes and feels pretty empty. In a few weeks I will be making the move from this place I have called home for the past three years, back to my parent's house in Phoenix. So, in addition to preparing for Africa, I have been preparing myself for this move as well. So many changes, so little time.

Anyways, I wanted to share a few pictures with you all from the orphanage and school where I will be working. If you want to see more or have any questions about the organization, please don't hesitate to check out their website at www.ecmafrica.org

It's coming...

2008-06-10T18:25:00.017-03:00

11 weeks and counting...

First... a quote, courtesy of a friend who is currently experiencing life in sub-Saharan Africa. Thanks Jeff.

"if you go to africa with a hard heart, you come back with a soft heart,
if you go to africa with a soft heart, you come back with a broken heart,
if you go to africa with a broken heart, you don't come back."

I'm nervous. Terrified. Ecstatic. Overwhelmed. Anxious. Overjoyed.

It has been a real trial recently to get a grip on my emotions, but I think that's normal... I hope that's normal. While I have never been to Africa before, I know that it will be so completely and utterly different than what I am used to. I know that I will love it... this ministry is a combination of all of the things that I am most passionate about: kids, education, and the impoverished. But at the same time, I feel extremely incompetent. How am I supposed to make any kind of a difference in the lives of these people who are of a different culture, race, religion, skin color, and economic status. I guess that my only comfort is that it will not be me who is making the difference, but God working through me. There is one problem with that statement though. In order for God to work through me, there is one attribute that I need to obtain a lot more of; humility. I know that I need to humble myself to the point that I am fully usable. To the point where there is nothing left of me and my own agenda.

I am leaving on August 24th but I ask that you begin praying for that supernatural humility NOW! Also know that I thank you in advance for your prayers and support!

"God uses men who are weak and feeble enough to lean on Him." --Hudson Taylor