tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-90807875849172222542024-03-05T10:17:14.493+01:00Gems of OnenessEvery human being is created noble, endowed with spiritual attributes that shine as brilliant gems, revealing the beauty of God in humanity. Our spiritual nature reflects this beauty through pure and goodly deeds in service to the human race. Each soul can attain its highest purpose in this world and contribute its unique spiritual capacity toward building an ever-advancing civilization.gemsofonenesshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01377759449480163725noreply@blogger.comBlogger263125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9080787584917222254.post-14632177653914204282015-04-09T15:43:00.007+02:002021-04-09T07:17:25.612+02:00Dorphan performing ~ Spiritual Cafe<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="344" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/L1iYW5SgJlA" width="459"></iframe><br />
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We first saw Dorphan - Poetically Speaking a few months ago at a <a href="http://www.standupshoutoutworld.org/" target="_blank">Stand Up Shout Out</a> event called <a href="https://www.facebook.com/video.php?v=994912560524432&theater" target="_blank">Be a Champion</a> where our daughter was invited to sing. It was there that we heard them perform and instantly loved their style and spirit of being conscious, positive artists. Soon after that event I wrote and asked Ian, their marketing/drummer guy, if they would be interested in coming out to Dagoretti to meet and perform for the jr. youth group. It wasn't meant to happen at this time but it established an association between us & we became friends on Facebook. They invited our family to attend one of their events and though we weren't able to go, it further developed that sense of association amongst us. I decided to ask Ian if he would like to come to our devotional/spiritual cafe; it felt like he would be receptive to such a gathering. When he came that night he brought many members of the group with him! All of us who were there were so happy that they came! When they started performing it was like time stood still and we were all mesmerized by their spirit, their vibe, their consciousness, their love and joy!<br />
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When Ian and I had a chance to talk he started to explain how touched he was by seeing the photos of the jr. youth group on Facebook. He said it affected him how a foreigner was working/serving in a community that was full of suffering -- it made him feel that I understood the difficulties associated with poverty and that I could relate to their lives, their stories. This is what opened his heart to coming to the devotional. I was able to express a mutual respect for the work they are doing, for the spirit they are releasing through their artistry. It was a special evening of soul to soul connections like that, with everyone interacting naturally and spiritually. No one wanted to leave or say goodbye..Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9080787584917222254.post-14150240539442483992015-02-06T05:57:00.001+01:002015-02-06T05:57:19.490+01:00'My Dream' - Billian Music Family and Ayana<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="270" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/oecGyV69Zow" width="480"></iframe> Here is a music video with a positive message and beautiful spirit of striving to overcome one's difficulties in life, featuring Ayana and <a href="http://www.billianmusicfamily.com/about%20us.html">Billian Music Family</a>. <br /><br />
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We were introduced to Billian when we moved to Nairobi; he is a close friend of Marie-Eve Lemieux of <a href="http://www.dunkgrassroots.org/">DUNK</a>. Billian immediately welcomed Ayana into his life by inviting her to sing at the opening of BMF's office in <a href="https://www.google.com/search?q=mathare+nairobi&tbm=isch&tbo=u&source=univ&sa=X&ei=VUnUVNOBN-vV7AbW0IGQDg&ved=0CCwQsAQ&biw=1366&bih=618">Mathare</a>. After a year of getting to know each other better and collaborating with friends like Patrick Sampao of the local music industry, this song came into being. <br /><br />
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It is an important story to tell, a dream to be realized by all who face great obstacles and challenges in life, especially in impoverished areas where opportunities are hard to come by. This video demonstrates how leadership, combined with good character, attracts divine blessings along the path of striving to do good. Billian has instilled into these kids -- and all around him -- the qualities of working hard, gaining an education and developing one's talents, no matter what the difficulties one faces.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9080787584917222254.post-56150530428576875442015-02-03T12:48:00.000+01:002015-03-05T11:33:59.883+01:00Wealth/Poverty ~ a Baha'i viewOne of the most important principles of the Teaching of Bahá'u'lláh is:<br />
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<b>The right of every human being to the daily bread whereby they exist, or the equalization of the means of livelihood.</b><br />
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The arrangements of the circumstances of the people must be such that poverty shall disappear, that everyone, as far as possible, according to his rank and position, shall share in comfort and well-being.<br />
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We see amongst us men who are overburdened with riches on the one hand, and on the other those unfortunate ones who starve with nothing; those who possess several stately palaces, and those who have not where to lay their head. Some we find with numerous courses of costly and dainty food; whilst others can scarce find sufficient crusts to keep them alive. Whilst some are clothed in velvets, furs and fine linen, others have insufficient, poor and thin garments with which to protect them from the cold.<br />
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This condition of affairs is wrong, and must be remedied. Now the remedy must be carefully undertaken. It cannot be done by bringing to pass absolute equality between men.<br />
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Equality is a chimera! It is entirely impracticable! Even if equality could be achieved it could not continue -- and if its existence were possible, the whole order of the world would be destroyed. The law of order must always obtain in the world of humanity. Heaven has so decreed in the creation of man.<br />
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Some are full of intelligence, others have an ordinary amount of it, and others again are devoid of intellect. In these three classes of men there is order but not equality. How could it be possible that wisdom and stupidity should be equal? Humanity, like a great army, requires a general, captains, under-officers in their degree, and soldiers, each with their own appointed duties. Degrees are absolutely necessary to ensure an orderly organization. An army could not be composed of generals alone, or of captains only, or of nothing but soldiers without one in authority. The certain result of such a plan would be that disorder and demoralization would overtake the whole army.<br />
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King Lycurgus, the philosopher, made a great plan to equalize the subjects of Sparta; with self-sacrifice and wisdom was the experiment begun. Then the king called the people of his kingdom, and made them swear a great oath to maintain the same order of government if he should leave the country, also that nothing should make them alter it until his return. Having secured this oath, he left his kingdom of Sparta and never returned. Lycurgus abandoned the situation, renouncing his high position, thinking to achieve the permanent good of his country by the equalization of the property and of the conditions of life in his kingdom. All the self-sacrifice of the king was in vain. The great experiment failed. After a time all was destroyed; his carefully thought-out constitution came to an end.<br />
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The futility of attempting such a scheme was shown and the impossibility of attaining equal conditions of existence was proclaimed in the ancient kingdom of Sparta. In our day any such attempt would be equally doomed to failure.<br />
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Certainly, some being enormously rich and others lamentably poor, an organization is necessary to control and improve this state of affairs. It is important to limit riches, as it is also of importance to limit poverty. Either extreme is not good. To be seated in the mean [1] is most desirable. If it be right for a capitalist to possess a large fortune, it is equally just that his workman should have a sufficient means of existence.<br />
[1 'Give me neither poverty nor riches.' -- Prov. xxx., 8.]<br />
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A financier with colossal wealth should not exist whilst near him is a poor man in dire necessity. When we see poverty allowed to reach a condition of starvation it is a sure sign that somewhere we shall find tyranny. Men must bestir themselves in this matter, and no longer delay in altering conditions which bring the misery of grinding poverty to a very large number of the people. The rich must give of their abundance, they must soften their hearts and cultivate a compassionate intelligence, taking thought for those sad ones who are suffering from lack of the very necessities of life.<br />
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There must be special laws made, dealing with these extremes of riches and of want. The members of the Government should consider the laws of God when they are framing plans for the ruling of the people. The general rights of mankind must be guarded and preserved.<br />
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The government of the countries should conform to the Divine Law which gives equal justice to all. This is the only way in which the deplorable superfluity of great wealth and miserable, demoralizing, degrading poverty can be abolished. Not until this is done will the Law of God be obeyed.<br />
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(Abdu'l-Baha, Paris Talks, p. 151)<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9080787584917222254.post-67038117505120333602014-10-02T21:01:00.005+02:002021-04-09T06:47:15.351+02:00Sponsoring Students ~ Gems of the Futurei have recently realized the significance of what it means to 'sponsor' a student. basically it is providing the necessary funds to cover the fees for secondary school which is not covered by the government in most countries throughout Africa.<br />
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once a student with very little financial means finishes primary school -- which is free in a country like Kenya, as long as one can provide a school uniform and basic stationery for oneself -- the chances of progressing through secondary school diminish drastically because the fees are beyond what the masses of citizens can afford, even for day school instead of boarding (which is very common throughout Africa).<br />
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as i am now working with a group of 14 year olds that are preparing to take their exams and graduate from <a href="http://www.stlukeseducationcentre.kbo.co.ke/">St. Luke's Educational Centre</a>, i am moved by their high resolve to work hard in the most meager of institutions to educate themselves even though most cannot afford secondary school.<br />
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when i think of the loss of potential revealed in every child in this world who does not have the opportunity to attend even a basic school beyond primary, it staggers my mind what a waste of human capacity that is..what a tremendous loss to every community that is not educating its youth..and what a responsibility we have to care for each child if we want this world to be the best place it can be..<br />
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i do not understand the intricacies of governmental policies, taxes and laws which can ensure that every community provides free education for its young people, but i do know that if it's not set up that way then there is surely something wrong with the system.<br />
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i wish i could sponsor all of these students but cannot. i explained to them that it wouldn't be just to sponsor one of them and not the others, as i am working with them as a group. they know i am going to try and reach out to our friends and see if any support can come that way. i thought it's possible, too, to write about it here in case anyone reading may be inspired to sponsor one or more of them as well. the <a href="http://serveafrica.info/kenya/secondary-schools">websites </a>about <a href="http://www.kenyaeducation.org/httpdocs/sponsor/sponsor.php">sponsorship in Kenya</a> explain that it costs about $50/month to sponsor one student. it is best if it is a 4 year commitment. if you want to reach the students at St. Luke's who are not connected by these organizations helping other schools, please <a href="http://www.stlukeseducationcentre.kbo.co.ke/">contact St. Luke's</a> directly on their website or send me a message.<br />
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<i>"Regard man as a mine rich in gems of inestimable value. Education, can alone, cause it to reveal its treasures and enable mankind to benefit therefrom."</i></blockquote>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">~ <a href="http://www.bahaullah.org/">Baha'u'llah</a> </span></div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9080787584917222254.post-47796841917252928292014-09-25T13:16:00.008+02:002021-04-09T07:13:44.418+02:00Kenyan Students - Shining Examplegems of oneness, gleaming with radiance, eagerness to learn, purity of heart, hopeful of spirit.. these are the young souls of St. Luke's Educational Center in Dagoretti Market, a distant neighborhood of Nairobi where there is rampant alcoholism and endemic poverty. inside the school yard there is almost nothing to depict it is an educational institution except for the obvious benches and chalkboards with some hanging sacks hung by nails that have grammar words written on them. there are no bookshelves, no posters, no computers, no cafeteria, no sports field, no music room, no pool, no auditorium, etc. the students use one notebook for most subjects, taking notes from the board instead of books because only the teacher has a workbook to read.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg_g08FTE8zpYe1pIh5jsqYK2yj9U-hfmO0XLshNnJQ7yDTwvZo82LCgHhEbl-B-R1aFK13-jvaVFGLc3I0llUA1uynz9vgaGiry4bNyaoYdd0rDyJOhVQ6hpa3jpnDXYE7QS3B9N8vwo8/s1600/IMG_4521.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg_g08FTE8zpYe1pIh5jsqYK2yj9U-hfmO0XLshNnJQ7yDTwvZo82LCgHhEbl-B-R1aFK13-jvaVFGLc3I0llUA1uynz9vgaGiry4bNyaoYdd0rDyJOhVQ6hpa3jpnDXYE7QS3B9N8vwo8/s1600/IMG_4521.JPG" width="400" /></a>what shines as a gem is the students' volition to learn. despite the physical and material obstacles in their life -- such as being orphaned, or having no shoe laces, or going to bed hungry -- they come to school by 7am with joyful and dedicated hearts to advance as much as they can so they are prepared for secondary school. their entire attitude is positive toward learning, and striving to learn. they don't get to be surrounded by clean, colorful walls with all kinds of stimulating materials; they don't get to have enough light in their classrooms because there is no electricity to light the rooms; and they don't have any of the typical embellishments to a school that make it a desirable environment to be in. yet they are there for six days a week of their own volition and they actually desire to learn.<br />
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when i think of schools in America with computers and sports programs that have metal detectors and fear within the halls from all sorts of societal ills for many reasons, i think how fortunate these kids at St. Luke's are. they are like a family. they are a community. they don't fight each other and bring the ills of the society around them into the school. in fact all of them will profess how wrong it is to drink alcohol. they know it is killing their community. the 14 year olds at the school are mature for their age; they are focused on education to get them beyond what surrounds them. these gemful souls shine in the ways of loving God, of desiring to do service, and of striving to learn. i am illumined in their presence..<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">children's class playing the game 'Giants' to practice the principle of unity</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">children's class drawing a picture and writing a sentence from the board</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Joan, a 14 year old jr. youth - contemplating an answer to a question</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">working on a lesson in Walking the Straight Path in the field behind the school</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">playing 'monkey in the middle' - boys against the girls</td></tr>
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9080787584917222254.post-32762058232492807032014-08-14T04:07:00.001+02:002014-09-23T16:00:05.747+02:00I Can't Breathe<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="270" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/FpfTos6NroM" width="480"></iframe>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9080787584917222254.post-43506454274984838142014-06-19T16:47:00.001+02:002014-06-19T18:18:34.737+02:00Dagoretti jr. youth 1st service project<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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yesterday twenty-nine jr. youth traveled from <a href="http://www.stlukeseducationcentre.kbo.co.ke/home">st. luke's educational center</a> to the Kikuyu Hospital for their first service project. we began the morning by walking to the closest <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Matatu">matatu</a> station; the drivers asked for more money than the kids had brought, so we walked further up the main road to the next stop so we could afford the fare. we waited for an empty matatu and thought only half would travel first, but one by one the kids piled into the taxi with us 3 adults and we all rode together, smooshed but very happy! the kids started singing songs with great joy as the 5 minute ride got underway. it reminded me of the days when the Delft kids would sing loudly whenever they were together doing something that made them happy.<br />
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we joined the congregational service that was being held at the hospital. this was recommended to us by the chaplain who welcomes all guests. the kids were to sing some songs for the gathering. after listening to a short sermon and some singing, the group was recognized as special guests -- they were invited to come to the front and sing. i had appointed Peter, one of the older jr. youth, to introduce the group. when he went up, none of the other kids followed him to arrange themselves for singing; instead they all remained seated. he spoke quietly and without confidence yet i felt so proud of him for his courage. this is the first time these students are being exposed to anything related to the power of expression in public. they are all learning so much in the process of trying to do new things.<br />
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as soon as Peter finished speaking, one of the chaplains invited the 'teacher' (while looking at me) to come and introduce the group. before i could respond, Bilha, one of the mothers, and the friend who introduced me to st. luke's, walked to the front of the congregation and explained briefly who we are and why we had come. the children had started to gather around Peter but they did not organize themselves well. some tall ones were standing in front of shorter ones, and they were overcome by a sense of shyness. all of the joy that i have seen them sing with was hiding inside of them. they managed to sing 2 songs with the help of the congregation's guitarist but they didn't convey the joy or spirit that is in their hearts. as soon as the service was over and we assembled outside to wait for the chaplain, one of the older students came to me and said, 'That was a shame'. i responded that it is a learning, something we can reflect about and learn from.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">listening to instructions</td></tr>
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after figuring out with administration what our tasks would be and how to organize ourselves, the housekeeper came to give the students instructions. we divided ourselves between the 'shining stars' (11-12 year olds) and the 'spiritual warriors' (13-14 year olds) and then set off to different areas of the compound. the jr. youth were eager and excited to clean! some did garden work; others cleaned toilets and picked up trash. everyone worked for an hour before going to visit patients. i was with the shining stars and could see their interest but hesitancy to actually go and greet the patients -- they stood together and sang different songs to the patients they visited in different rooms. after taking one photo of them and disturbing their concentration i decided to step back and let them go with the matron of the ward. afterwards we met up with the spiritual warriors before eating a snack and walking home.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">washing hands before visiting patients</td></tr>
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there are some significant aspects of this outing. they were more than willing to come up with the money for the matatu even though their families are materially poor and many cannot afford to pay school fees. in the same way did they collect money to buy fruit to offer to the hospital even though some of them leave school and have no food to eat until they return to school and have tea for breakfast. it is also significant how their hearts served so willingly and sincerely; they felt so good after working hard. they all care about those who are ill; they consciously pray for others who are not well with that deep gratitude that God has kept them well today and that their health is dependent on God's Will. lastly, they were so happy to walk 3km back to school instead of take another matatu. it was such an opportunity to show friendship to one another, to laugh and run..to be kids. i had such a great time talking with them that i wished we could have walked another 3kms so i could get to enjoy our time together more! i also felt so happy to be on the back roads of kenya and see the rolling hills of planted maize and banana trees -- sights i never get to see on the main roads in a car. i kept telling them how fortunate they are to live like this -- ie., to be surrounded by natural beauty and walk to many places with a sense of community that they all share so naturally.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">singing to patients</td></tr>
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it's important for me to explain that these students prepared for this service project without any material support except for printing out indemnity forms. i guided and supported their ideas of serving at the hospital and called the chaplain to see if it was ok to come. in our sessions we discussed the math involved for transport and buying fruit; they came up with the idea to walk home to save money on transport which they couldn't afford. they knew which gospel songs they wanted to sing and came up with a plan on how to cover the cost of buying fruit -- some volunteered with pure-hearted joy to contribute extra money to compensate for those who didn't have any money to contribute. they met their financial goals and worked together like a family who protects each other from any sense of loss.<br />
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we ended the day with reflections and discussion about what we felt and learned from the experience. i felt like we all grew closer as a group, as well as having shared something special together.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">walking home</td></tr>
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9080787584917222254.post-21881098984498403522014-06-11T15:58:00.000+02:002014-06-17T07:25:56.371+02:00Dagoretti jr. youth group evolves<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the Shining Stars singing 'Regard man as a mine rich in gems..'</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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today at st. luke's educational center the jr. youth groups went through the fun process of naming their group. the 11-12 year olds came up with many suggestions and finally chose 'shining stars' for their name. the 13-14 year olds tried coming up with their own suggestions but ended up unanimously voting for one of the two remaining possibilities up on the board: 'spiritual warriors' (which i had added without them knowing amongst the younger group's suggestions). it was a joyful moment that brought the students closer together as a group.<br />
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a great process of learning how to be a group occurred when we consulted about the money needed to buy fruit for next week's service project. originally they all agreed to contribute 20bob (which is like 30 cents). today we learned that 6 of them are not able to do so. we calculated 6x20 to get a total of 120bob remaining. we discussed how others may be able to contribute just 5bob while others may be able to contribute more to add up to 120. a handful of students raised their hands to contribute more than the 20bob they already had in order to cover the amount needed to buy fruit to bring to the hospital. it was a thoughtful and honorable process because they are learning to trust as well as help each other.<br />
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i learned today - while we were playing with a soft ball that i had brought - that there is a rift between the girls and the boys. the girls feel that the boys are not sharing with them and then they ruin the ball and now the girls do not have a chance to play with it. when the boys were playing with the soft ball the girls started complaining. it was definitely challenging to face this issue all of a sudden with a large group of arguing kids. i tried diverting their attention away from the ball issue by introducing step dancing as a new skill to learn (which ended up attracting almost all of them). but by the end of the session the boys asked if they could keep the ball and the girls started arguing again. i gathered them all together and described how half of the world of humanity is like one wing of a bird and how the other gender is the other wing. i explained the necessity of cooperation and mutual respect. i then asked them to offer suggestions about what to do with the ball. one girl said alternate days; another girl suggested alternating between break and lunch times; and then a boy offered that they already have a ball so the girls must have this one. i asked them all to vote and they all voted for the boy's suggestion. it was a brilliant moment of practicing consultation and establishing a sense of justice amongst the group.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9080787584917222254.post-89686964644845381872014-06-06T07:43:00.053+02:002021-04-09T18:51:50.484+02:00Jr. Youth Group ~ Dagoretti<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Today was the 4th session at St. Luke's educational center in Dagoretti for embarking on the Junior Youth Spiritual Empowerment Program. The group of 11-14 year olds (which we combine for group activities, not the study books) consists of 29 students. Today they were asked what they like about the group. One girl said she is growing in morals; another said everything is new and interesting; another added that he is growing spiritually. They all agree that it is fun!<div><br /></div><div>After the opening prayer and an update about our first service project, the theme of being a noble soul was introduced. i drew 9 lines around in a circle which made it look like a light, then lightly made a stick figure attached to it, explaining that our body is a temple for our soul. They easily named 9 virtues to describe some of the powers of the soul which, when practiced and developed, enable us to grow spiritually. We defined the words 'unique' and 'potential' as well as the 3 forms of 'exercise' and how growth involves pain.<br />
<br />They were then given a blank sheet of paper on which to write their name and pass it to the person on their left. Each student had to write something good and positive about this person's character. When they received their name back the page was full of virtues and admirable qualities that others see in them. I asked them to keep in their jr. youth notebooks.<br />
<br />I asked them to stand and sing something to give us energy. They started clapping and went joyfully into 3 gospel songs that made me smile from ear to ear. Their enthusiasm and love for God is so natural and communal that I am convinced that having less money means nothing when it comes to true happiness. These beautiful children have very little in terms of material comforts, or even essentials, yet they are spiritually rich and fulfilled. When they pray they exude genuine thankfulness and remember those less fortunate than themselves.<br />
<br />We then endeavored to do an experiment with sprouting seeds by using a ziploc bag, cotton balls and water. The analogy of our hidden potential being discovered from within just like a seed was discussed. I made the mistake of not bringing enough bags so they had an opportunity to exercise the qualities necessary to share willingly.<br />
<br />We then went outside and enjoyed some group games, including relay races which were a lot of fun. As we stood in a giant circle on the field, we closed with prayer and many happy goodbyes. </div><div><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The 11-12 year olds beginning Breezes of Confirmation at the 3rd session</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The 13-14 year olds are studying Walking the Straight Path on their own in a separate room</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZHNoCSPNvvfl5QxHZaoeZipn0JA7xr6TdxW9Uu60eam4Eor05jYtW7LILIS836rlpTDoSF03ejrGrWmThPzzkkvIsI-_gb6_hG8V5k5poeeL0MR1yhDDzUBPhYT4s0CYtGmhbd9_qDMf3/s1600/dagoretti+study+circle.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZHNoCSPNvvfl5QxHZaoeZipn0JA7xr6TdxW9Uu60eam4Eor05jYtW7LILIS836rlpTDoSF03ejrGrWmThPzzkkvIsI-_gb6_hG8V5k5poeeL0MR1yhDDzUBPhYT4s0CYtGmhbd9_qDMf3/s1600/dagoretti+study+circle.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The teachers, principal, Mr. Kamau, and neighbors studying book 1 in preparation for becoming children's class teachers and animators</td></tr>
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</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9080787584917222254.post-65548396096264951122014-05-30T14:23:00.000+02:002014-05-30T14:23:14.885+02:00veils to spiritual perception<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>"Our spiritual perception, our inward sight must be opened, so that we can see the signs and traces of God's spirit in everything. Everything can reflect to us the light of the Spirit." </i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">~ Abdu'l-Baha</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidQAQ6GccBXZJC_y6oC0k4Z6h0lVjxnm397a5BNXJpi1KaZmNRAWSQQwcj9mItLRYGwS_-auNr4trRvdNbn0foMTO23lUgDGc4PEljdHageJG6zVovvkK28L3dLQqjX5kOa_nFEx-K6GeH/s1600/Heart-and-the-Environment.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidQAQ6GccBXZJC_y6oC0k4Z6h0lVjxnm397a5BNXJpi1KaZmNRAWSQQwcj9mItLRYGwS_-auNr4trRvdNbn0foMTO23lUgDGc4PEljdHageJG6zVovvkK28L3dLQqjX5kOa_nFEx-K6GeH/s1600/Heart-and-the-Environment.jpg" height="268" width="640" /></a></div>
spiritual perception is one of the powers of human beings that distinguish us from animals:<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>"It is clearly evident that while man possesses powers in common with the animal, he is distinguished from the animal by intellectual attainment, spiritual perception, the acquisition of virtues, capacity to receive the bestowals of Divinity, lordly bounty and emanations of heavenly mercy. This is the adornment of man, his honor and sublimity. Humanity must strive toward this supreme station."</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">~ Abdu'l-Baha</span></div>
</blockquote>
there are 3 essential qualities necessary for us to develop spiritual perception:<br />
<ul>
<li>a pure heart</li>
<li>the knowledge of God</li>
<li>the love of God</li>
</ul>
yet there are many veils which hinder our inner eye from seeing the reality of all things:<br />
<ul>
<li>material senses</li>
<li>literal interpretation</li>
<li>vain imaginings</li>
<li>imitation</li>
<li>egotism</li>
<li>pursuit of passion and desire </li>
</ul>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>"..we must endeavor with heart and soul in order that the veil covering the eye of inner vision may be removed, that we may behold the manifestations of the signs of God..and realize that material blessings as compared with spiritual bounties are as nothing."</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">~ Abdu'l-Baha</span></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9080787584917222254.post-50703969309043193482014-05-24T09:16:00.000+02:002014-07-23T15:58:09.833+02:00arising to serve humanity <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwJ4KWLV2y83lj-OHSnre6lDJl4dKpMXjzzRL6Raze0w8e-4w1AF60AcVvWODkLeXq-YTSWv-Val1Mr7yVsqWraxpDl1wea2wNPgU37uDXUitH6sb28VO8hxjUnZ0PrXAE8BacMxEVA41B/s1600/IMG_3783.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwJ4KWLV2y83lj-OHSnre6lDJl4dKpMXjzzRL6Raze0w8e-4w1AF60AcVvWODkLeXq-YTSWv-Val1Mr7yVsqWraxpDl1wea2wNPgU37uDXUitH6sb28VO8hxjUnZ0PrXAE8BacMxEVA41B/s1600/IMG_3783.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a>a new story is beginning in the Dagoretti market area on the Karen side of Nairobi. it began when i walked to the small, local grocery store to buy vegetables. outside of the market is a shop to buy flowers. with joy i greeted the young woman behind the table as she pruned roses. she was immediately attracted to the joy. after warm exchanges of courtesy she asked me if i was a Christian. from there we have been exchanging heart to heart desires for a better world. she is a woman who does not want to wait for people to come into the church to be saved. she is about helping other people; she wants her community to be free of alcohol and drugs and all that is hurtful to children. i introduced the Baha'i-inspired spiritual empowerment program for jr. youth, providing the vision for long-term investment in young souls to ultimately change the neighborhood. then one day by surprise she announced that her cousin is the principal of <a href="http://www.stlukeseducationcentre.kbo.co.ke/">st. luke's educational center</a> in that neighborhood and that he'd like to meet with me to discuss initiating the program in his school.<br />
<br />
i was excited beyond words, as if God had clearly answered my prayers to be able to be of service in this capacity in an area that is relatively close to where we live, but i was also very hesitant because i didn't have transport to get there -- i don't have a car to drive and i'm not willing to take a matatu alone because i feel anything can happen that will threaten my safety. so i called the one Baha'i mother in this area and asked if she could drive me to this meeting and she took me a few days later.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxlDdq8ggmzDEna_Y4QbX3YKTL9WYRDLFjW6XP7uCLWqGCJ5WZEgcyExOCqf89VHGotkqamL3FOaoKUKdATkW8yiHPZiB9RnnNaEw_BRnj9cDHj5Otek0jHFxD1NZaLayThxhZtw28YtqM/s1600/IMG_3789.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxlDdq8ggmzDEna_Y4QbX3YKTL9WYRDLFjW6XP7uCLWqGCJ5WZEgcyExOCqf89VHGotkqamL3FOaoKUKdATkW8yiHPZiB9RnnNaEw_BRnj9cDHj5Otek0jHFxD1NZaLayThxhZtw28YtqM/s1600/IMG_3789.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a><br />
after a very positive and receptive meeting about the program, we agreed with the principal, Mr. Kamau, that we would consult about the logistics and get back with him. while driving home, my friend generously and lovingly offered that the woman who works for her could pick me up and take me every week to the school. she explained that this could be part of her work during the week, in the spirit of being of service which is the highest expression of all work we do as Baha'is. the woman who works for her is also a Baha'i.<br />
<br />
that moment made me offer up the deepest praise and thanksgiving to God. i have been longing to engage once again in a service-oriented activity at the community level here in Nairobi. the only limitation to the program being held in the school was my transport and now it was sorted so effortlessly through the willingness of a friend whose heart feels connected in the spirit of service to offer her car.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6XrPpCuS0AJAkRWBA3fbzAwE49f9nFuH52Ys1pdkpWvoaF5puIgve5gDV8Qw7YiUmv_n3cD5T2L3xS1acGGFv1lODJx1NcsSuc9I_bPhTJP0NCqsd29oKRZf3xFJPgADysMPq_RUkjLH7/s1600/IMG_3786.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6XrPpCuS0AJAkRWBA3fbzAwE49f9nFuH52Ys1pdkpWvoaF5puIgve5gDV8Qw7YiUmv_n3cD5T2L3xS1acGGFv1lODJx1NcsSuc9I_bPhTJP0NCqsd29oKRZf3xFJPgADysMPq_RUkjLH7/s1600/IMG_3786.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a>it has been 3 weeks since that initial visit to st. luke's educational centre. since that time, the principal and teachers have begun the study process for becoming animators of their own jr. youth groups and/or children's class teachers. there is word that another school has found out about it and wants to be trained as well. the kids are enthusiastic and grateful. i have led 2 out of the 3 sessions and have heard from the principal that the kids are really happy with the program. they are discovering that the potential for excellence lies within them and must be exercised by their own volition. they are beginning to feel their own uniqueness in how God has created them in order to make this world a better place. they have chosen going to a hospital as their first service activity which we will begin planning next week. the school is abuzz with new energy and it's such a bounty to see.<br />
<br />
i am already thinking about all of these kids as if they are my own children. i look forward to all that lies ahead in terms of learning and growth, challenges and successes, service activities and transformation.<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>"The betterment of the world can be accomplished through pure and goodly deeds, through commendable and seemly conduct." </i> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">~Baha'u'llah</span></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9080787584917222254.post-86011749525675038812014-05-08T12:49:00.001+02:002014-05-08T14:03:42.274+02:00'Ending Violence Against Women' ENDING VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN: <span style="font-size: small;"> </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Bahá'í International Community statement presented to the 51st session of the United Nations Commission on Human Rights<br /><br />Geneva, Switzerland<br />30 January -- 10 March 1995</span><br />
* * * * *<br />
<i><br /></i>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>"The friends of God must be adorned with the ornament of justice, equity, kindness and love. As they do not allow themselves to be the object of cruelty and transgression, in like manner they should not allow such tyranny to visit the Handmaidens of God."</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">~ Bahá'u'lláh</span></div>
<br />
<br />
..Violence against women is a yardstick by which one can measure the violation of all human rights. It can be used to gauge the degree to which a society is governed by aggressivity, dominated by competition and ruled by force. Abusive practices against women have frequently been and are still being justified in the context of cultural norms, religious beliefs and unfounded "scientific theories" and assumptions. But whatever its political or religious system, a society patterned on dominance inevitably gives rise to such distortions of power as violence against women.<br />
<br />
It is becoming increasingly evident, however, that all forms of violence against women degrade not only the victim but the perpetrator as well. Those who inflict violence on women are themselves among the casualties of power-based systems. When unbridled competition, aggression, and tyranny destroy the fabric of society, everyone suffers. In the Bahá'í view, "the harvest of force is turmoil and the ruin of the social order" and violence against women is a grave symptom of this larger disorder.<br />
<br />
Our challenge is to search out new strategies and adopt fresh models that will encourage a healthier, more cooperative society at all levels. We need to move consciously away from patterns of force and aggressivity and towards methods of consultation and peace-making. Because of the rise in crime and pornography, the increase in ethnic violence and the collapse of the family, more and more individuals, organizations and governments are seeking alternatives to violence in managing conflict.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT97xKe9tSx6TNXBGwoWV0dTv1N8YlO0w3ub2TTAu9rBTx4xOzTxM5Hs0PNFuoLwWbBm4OoSb61LEHp6LLB2XYWCH8IS90nSsbPEeyNYXWjbYXnZuJCPjdqev0Kxcw_3fpElzy7htzelBM/s1600/share+dreams...jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT97xKe9tSx6TNXBGwoWV0dTv1N8YlO0w3ub2TTAu9rBTx4xOzTxM5Hs0PNFuoLwWbBm4OoSb61LEHp6LLB2XYWCH8IS90nSsbPEeyNYXWjbYXnZuJCPjdqev0Kxcw_3fpElzy7htzelBM/s1600/share+dreams...jpg" height="286" width="320" /></a>One of the essential ways to encourage more cooperation is through education. While economic disparity and legal inequality are known to contribute to incidents of violence against women, it is obvious that violence arises from ignorance -- the failure to understand such fundamental realities as the oneness of the human race and the mistaken notion that force is the only honorable way to resolve conflicts. Education -- moral, material and practical -- is therefore not only a fundamental right but a practical necessity in today's world. Any attempt to curb societal violence that does not educate individuals to overcome gender prejudice will certainly fall short. At a time when illiteracy is increasing among women in the developing world and levels of learning are falling for both sexes in industrial societies, it is vitally important to reemphasize the role of education everywhere if violence against women is to be controlled.<br />
<br />
Ironically enough, the place where women and girls are most subject to violence and neglect is within their own homes, at the nerve center of the family. If families educate their daughters, and if the community systematically encourages the education of girl children, both the family and the community benefit. Bahá'u'lláh, the Prophet-Founder of the Bahá'í Faith, has emphasized that mothers are the first educators of the next generation, in the broadest interpretation of those terms, and that where resources are limited priority must, therefore, be given to education of girl children.<br />
<br />
But the problem of violence cannot truly be resolved unless men are also educated to value women as equal partners. Any effort to protect women against male aggression which does not involve the early training of boys will necessarily be short-lived. Likewise, all attempts to understand the causes and consequences of violence against women which do not involve men are bound to fail.<br />
<br />
The Bahá'í International Community, therefore, warmly welcomes the inclusion of a full analysis of violence against women in the mandate of the Special Rapporteur. It also welcomes the invitation by the Commission on Human Rights to "recommend measures to eliminate violence against women and its causes, and to remedy its consequences."<br />
<br />
Since the Bahá'í International Community has invested considerable effort at the grass roots in the education and training of both men and women in partnership, we would gladly offer to share our experience. For example, our recent collaboration with UNIFEM in three projects using traditional media as a change agent in society has drawn the attention of UNICEF because one result of the project was a decline in family violence.* In this respect, we look forward to further collaboration with the Special Rapporteur.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">[This essay was published in The Greatness Which Might Be Theirs, a compilation of reflections on the Agenda and Platform for Action for the United Nations Fourth World Conference on Women: Equality, Development and Peace, published for distribution at the Fourth World Conference on Women in Beijing and the parallel NGO Forum in Huairou, China, August/September 1995.]</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9080787584917222254.post-34688033542612832132014-05-06T11:52:00.001+02:002014-05-06T11:53:50.276+02:00'Happy' cover by Ayana<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="270" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/5QoQXJ7_47c" width="480"></iframe> <br />
after living in Nairobi for 9 months, our lives are gradually being woven into the life of the community. our daughter was invited to perform at the 'Just Kids Extravaganza' recently. it was definitely a happy moment for everyone!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9080787584917222254.post-6605898969353792812014-04-08T08:08:00.001+02:002014-04-08T08:09:25.956+02:00Kikuyu song and dance<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="270" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/DCyCWdowz1U" width="480"></iframe>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9080787584917222254.post-30876863048620428512014-03-31T08:52:00.001+02:002014-03-31T15:12:11.257+02:00Sizzla - Be Strong - Video Lyrics<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="344" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/iUKlJzraqfI" width="459"></iframe>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9080787584917222254.post-14702174559741583352014-03-19T18:06:00.001+01:002014-03-21T12:49:36.456+01:00gardener of heartsfor seven months i have been quietly taking in Nairobi, unable to express the journey of connecting with the Oneness of the human race, in all that pertains to experiences, emotions, circumstances, difficulties and joy. my life is completely full and yet ever-evolving into absorbing more and more people and activities into our lives.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYLq5EQpnxTQ_0ILXVjWFZCB9YrNm8rjjRxeaZdXgJBQHREBuZyBMrulHB0neoDuqXIr7hI9h2Zw1eIAgBDURgBhGxGZtqZ8PhvEogYUtiw6uGgzaWP3L54ISzzcV_qDR4RMiwYf_EG8gA/s1600/IMG_3107.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYLq5EQpnxTQ_0ILXVjWFZCB9YrNm8rjjRxeaZdXgJBQHREBuZyBMrulHB0neoDuqXIr7hI9h2Zw1eIAgBDURgBhGxGZtqZ8PhvEogYUtiw6uGgzaWP3L54ISzzcV_qDR4RMiwYf_EG8gA/s1600/IMG_3107.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">World Religion Day devotional</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
it feels like the world is always opening itself with more and new wonderful opportunities to serve, love, readjust the lines that keep people socially separated, and most of all learn how to be a better human being.<br />
<br />
with every new soul who crosses my path i am treading a path of justice, letting my heart burn with loving-kindness, and thinking of a way to be of service to him/her..<br />
<br />
nairobi is a city in which to thrive. many kenyans are involved in social action. many ngo's are here with good intentions and high-minded endeavors. many inter-racial couples and adoptions lend to it feeling progressive and integrative. and many hard-working, humble souls imbue our lives with radiant acquiescence.<br />
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXN4LvYiMJa8C8SRmG6wAnync1yB9KRhXODS929U_AT9rRUpQWYDUQe5_KULYt8_anQET3-y0tR8ymSgPulpAyn4vslXTAQD_aMezQ5h011UKCresKY1R25v1j4A3gWOk0RkgrGWBfnDP6/s1600/IMG_3357.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXN4LvYiMJa8C8SRmG6wAnync1yB9KRhXODS929U_AT9rRUpQWYDUQe5_KULYt8_anQET3-y0tR8ymSgPulpAyn4vslXTAQD_aMezQ5h011UKCresKY1R25v1j4A3gWOk0RkgrGWBfnDP6/s1600/IMG_3357.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">singing at the Baha'i Center</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
i haven't quite found the words in all these months to depict my own experience here. it's definitely different than living in Cape Town or Accra yet in some ways it's the same -- because i am the same: i love the heart of African people. i look into eyes and see the Beauty of God emanating therefrom. i see worn shoes and shoes that do not fit properly while observing the long journey taken each day. i feel the pain while listening to story after story of people being orphaned at a young age. i am never tired of seeing someone's face light up when greeted with a simple 'Jambo!' and at the same time i am disturbed that they are still surprised that an mzungu (white person) is greeting them. and i desire for every child to grow up knowing they are 'a mine rich in gems of inestimable value'..<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwEeBcWDAy340FV_UCmIdPhz2LFfTbM86cNPVfjUbkA90d11R4bkvvP2j_xuVJ4doE2rPCx0DxwAoFIKvp1pISks78APZ3ayB85bMjI68nUNiAWUDuRw9yjZel63rzYRsEqw6vJ0IMtM-o/s1600/IMG_3365.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwEeBcWDAy340FV_UCmIdPhz2LFfTbM86cNPVfjUbkA90d11R4bkvvP2j_xuVJ4doE2rPCx0DxwAoFIKvp1pISks78APZ3ayB85bMjI68nUNiAWUDuRw9yjZel63rzYRsEqw6vJ0IMtM-o/s1600/IMG_3365.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Alvin & his little brother who came for a devotional</td></tr>
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we were living in an area of Nairobi for the first 6 months. we used to walk our children to the school bus each morning at 6:30am. we greeted people in kiSwahili. at first they were skeptical and a bit unsure of our intention -- how could we be so friendly and happy they must have wondered. this is true of the children as well. but after a short time they knew we were genuine and they, too, started greeting us, sometimes even before we greeted them. after a couple of months we would stop and meet people, getting to know their names, walking with them if we were going the same direction, and sometimes hugging each other with great warmth and joy.<br />
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sometimes i brought a little something to give the kids, like a notebook or a pencil. they were so grateful and received it in a humble manner. once we knew their names well they welcomed our affection and even looked forward to seeing us! when we told them we were moving they were saddened. by this time i had one of the boys' mom's number and they had come to our home for a devotional. they expressed hope of seeing us again on 'their side' of the city -- we hope to cross their paths when helping a youth with his proposed service activity in the area where they live, Kawangware, one of the slums of Nairobi.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicBWR2boTSGLhrLCdfPgA5fZL0My17KyWd9U9v5KV4DxH3hFBm99dwqpET20EulZq8lC3DXChg-zMWnWvQ4Ic02FLvl8xykLWA1-hUx_wWmKg98eT43xZy-E9udqOcDbtv4XqTrP5_P1j2/s1600/IMG_3397.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicBWR2boTSGLhrLCdfPgA5fZL0My17KyWd9U9v5KV4DxH3hFBm99dwqpET20EulZq8lC3DXChg-zMWnWvQ4Ic02FLvl8xykLWA1-hUx_wWmKg98eT43xZy-E9udqOcDbtv4XqTrP5_P1j2/s1600/IMG_3397.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
before we moved, i coordinated with the kids to come by during Ayyam-i-Ha to receive some cookies. they didn't stay for a visit but were happy to come inside the compound and take some homemade cookies with them on their long walk home. one of the boys who came by is an orphan. he lives with his older brother. i had noticed early on how torn his school sweater was. i let him know that when he came for cookies he could leave his sweater with me to mend and that i would give it to him the next morning. the next morning i caught up with him before he was about to pass the bus stop. he was indescribably happy to receive his mended sweater. he kept turning around as he walked ahead; we continued to wave goodbye to him. it was the last time we saw him before moving. i have received sms's from 2 other kids since we've moved. each time they want to know when we are coming to visit them.<br />
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i am still settling in to the new neighborhood. i haven't met any local children but am developing relationships with neighbors and workers in the area. life for me is about building community, thinking of 'rendering some service to every member of the human race' and taking care of my family. it is also about planting seeds, both in the earth and in human hearts -- seeds that are destined to sprout and create more beauty in this world. i'm concerned just as much about the soil of the human heart as i am mother earth upon which our feet tread. i hope in time to be working with children, visiting their families' homes, having more gatherings in our home, and nurturing the seed of the human heart with the soil of my love. i feel like a gardener of hearts..Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9080787584917222254.post-75788043449029443562014-03-19T12:20:00.001+01:002014-03-19T12:25:54.739+01:00spiritual bonds ~ holiday in SA<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDX-tMecYbES-YF302Yp-vARksKagkbZCRpRKNzdpWtRRrPnVWyY9XmCyb5UTQd9TBgYXJKSB4mFQyOxmrk8iBfPmz5iSnSBEeUbTOEFimgR0mnmQV59Y1wnfqzSTNH2C24eZBMOGDO3om/s1600/DSCN2687.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDX-tMecYbES-YF302Yp-vARksKagkbZCRpRKNzdpWtRRrPnVWyY9XmCyb5UTQd9TBgYXJKSB4mFQyOxmrk8iBfPmz5iSnSBEeUbTOEFimgR0mnmQV59Y1wnfqzSTNH2C24eZBMOGDO3om/s1600/DSCN2687.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a>spending time with friends is a source of pure delight for the soul when the relationships have a spiritual foundation and the ways in which time is spent are noble and free of things that are unworthy of our station as a soul.<br />
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this sums up how our time in South Africa was recently spent. we returned after a 3 year absence to see friends with whom we developed familial and spiritual bonds. it was pure joy to be reunited.<br />
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after mingling with everyone in the two townships where they now live, we took a few of them with us each day so that we could be together in a different environment from which they live. six days later when we relocated to a rented, unoccupied house, we had decided to ask their parents if 5 of them could stay with us for the rest of our holiday. with their parents' approval, we spent the last 9 days of our holiday with this group of young souls who are like our sons. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz36AJVdS64G1hEA3q8AVdNKQ1TqsGkoQ1MM_jSVaA6GHuQd349aiaDs8P2W6HwGnO1BV0eZeu7zKOq2qbpLZTqd1sJsX1gekpyRvCPhnbuMYIxiS522AVLYTu_m5MM_Vpa4AvxDCNM1kw/s1600/IMG_3033.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz36AJVdS64G1hEA3q8AVdNKQ1TqsGkoQ1MM_jSVaA6GHuQd349aiaDs8P2W6HwGnO1BV0eZeu7zKOq2qbpLZTqd1sJsX1gekpyRvCPhnbuMYIxiS522AVLYTu_m5MM_Vpa4AvxDCNM1kw/s1600/IMG_3033.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
we lived together, cooked together, ate together, cleaned up together, prayed together, listened to music together, danced together, played games together, went on outings together, and completed a study book together! for our family, and for them, it was a long-awaited dream come true.<br />
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a photo display of our holiday this past December/January:<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6r5s7j5YZW9fe3iWUbfPg3ZQ9e6S-WEjX-lmDZVgEAkBNgMYavikwgzprMI67EnWW6tq4d0Fxi5T03XC5nB1c5HA0TtLfOczOCXLvGlrOzQHyf_kvxteR7P2ZgYomTux_VmV5uhKedSgl/s1600/DSCN2436.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6r5s7j5YZW9fe3iWUbfPg3ZQ9e6S-WEjX-lmDZVgEAkBNgMYavikwgzprMI67EnWW6tq4d0Fxi5T03XC5nB1c5HA0TtLfOczOCXLvGlrOzQHyf_kvxteR7P2ZgYomTux_VmV5uhKedSgl/s1600/DSCN2436.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">we always love to do the water balloon toss with the kids</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMHPaxWSKSxKxbp4cSPqiTjWQR61mTjmMfY-jli7OQlqu76BnJL83EMFTVnEmb6Try47YE3yC-qz81QZ0MadUO1mXuZcdkdQyBmI_ffkuKLEKZg4rlgJY0rW5mZsM7tbj-FyeUf6OJ4vB9/s1600/DSCN2479.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMHPaxWSKSxKxbp4cSPqiTjWQR61mTjmMfY-jli7OQlqu76BnJL83EMFTVnEmb6Try47YE3yC-qz81QZ0MadUO1mXuZcdkdQyBmI_ffkuKLEKZg4rlgJY0rW5mZsM7tbj-FyeUf6OJ4vB9/s1600/DSCN2479.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">their first time up in a ferris wheel</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDqPEWLQ3kofCUhShoJ7NBpg7JPeUX13ABbYkVXGCsk3U-9-CBVT-VIRKPf63kO3tFrn56TGTvAz0Meh3jXQbBgeWK4sDcN7OnFpejRvAPaRjmLBv38Wrc8EyQSrVKK6ALcf-ncebD2kiO/s1600/DSCN2639.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDqPEWLQ3kofCUhShoJ7NBpg7JPeUX13ABbYkVXGCsk3U-9-CBVT-VIRKPf63kO3tFrn56TGTvAz0Meh3jXQbBgeWK4sDcN7OnFpejRvAPaRjmLBv38Wrc8EyQSrVKK6ALcf-ncebD2kiO/s1600/DSCN2639.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">running for a pass playing American football with 'Coach'</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8jtK-JVrWHr5RECDvYPRzpmeOPNLdev6QJAkBcQ5J1h1eQJB9YR-5g70YB-VWQFqwdmG6vRDeeBuisySHyIl6CutdZLv_bOi2DpOFkzrnXYakdUoyTExP9sJ1OQRhfjpYmiMDyhPwAGRu/s1600/DSCN2672.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8jtK-JVrWHr5RECDvYPRzpmeOPNLdev6QJAkBcQ5J1h1eQJB9YR-5g70YB-VWQFqwdmG6vRDeeBuisySHyIl6CutdZLv_bOi2DpOFkzrnXYakdUoyTExP9sJ1OQRhfjpYmiMDyhPwAGRu/s1600/DSCN2672.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">pyramid on the very windy beach at Camps Bay</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTp3Jqc9HAvLeh2Ufui37VmeWPzZe6zu_FvDHDIRFX4dH8btxpRQV0eUKyxAxU5t71kHwdWl3JBY4dXJTDanyYHLCqJDHALzFRFyc-Tc6wMT4ESXxc6xLN6B0BkV7kEXZUpS2e53BcAiSZ/s1600/IMG_2838-001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTp3Jqc9HAvLeh2Ufui37VmeWPzZe6zu_FvDHDIRFX4dH8btxpRQV0eUKyxAxU5t71kHwdWl3JBY4dXJTDanyYHLCqJDHALzFRFyc-Tc6wMT4ESXxc6xLN6B0BkV7kEXZUpS2e53BcAiSZ/s1600/IMG_2838-001.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">brothers</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6EssTEIhUOapF9-XqeJQ2QMwQmVMAAXlV4hC4x9cSKGQrUP1oediSo3D2_PXNCQ9CGnYIo3Lj5SDkjefhuW2N9UY_iHcoRT-faTQGIeK91VwR7K0QygDnEiDsq6LY4mhhcS-yg-4ZBra0/s1600/IMG_2909-001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6EssTEIhUOapF9-XqeJQ2QMwQmVMAAXlV4hC4x9cSKGQrUP1oediSo3D2_PXNCQ9CGnYIo3Lj5SDkjefhuW2N9UY_iHcoRT-faTQGIeK91VwR7K0QygDnEiDsq6LY4mhhcS-yg-4ZBra0/s1600/IMG_2909-001.JPG" height="223" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">cooking together</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiql2OHEI2xOIcWZt_SIw-wHyH890PTS6evYbQZnnil58isu46GBDx6WQ2XWFQUcdmQLe1xTy4sx5lVidD-_eA3XHp-NfIGSm3JlZPegGoLJ1g4E24LThERIECWsETrjPByyZagnHD7DtLw/s1600/IMG_2923.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiql2OHEI2xOIcWZt_SIw-wHyH890PTS6evYbQZnnil58isu46GBDx6WQ2XWFQUcdmQLe1xTy4sx5lVidD-_eA3XHp-NfIGSm3JlZPegGoLJ1g4E24LThERIECWsETrjPByyZagnHD7DtLw/s1600/IMG_2923.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">mac cheese, fried fish & salad</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj63bFF3JoyhQ-_olaIm4C_Bb39-IuZZjt4TCGYbRkr0Kmh97gKg1OFwTw77t1cwO3I4rY85ItQqNCBKZ2APmiD8TkFy9xlMIuNd4yjJ-YbcLRdHFiu-37WD1zRafEEMBQub8CjYwf7h46/s1600/IMG_2967.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj63bFF3JoyhQ-_olaIm4C_Bb39-IuZZjt4TCGYbRkr0Kmh97gKg1OFwTw77t1cwO3I4rY85ItQqNCBKZ2APmiD8TkFy9xlMIuNd4yjJ-YbcLRdHFiu-37WD1zRafEEMBQub8CjYwf7h46/s1600/IMG_2967.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">playground in Greenpoint</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlzsKm6vQS5uek2z8SR31RJpOdgkoiW-Qg4P1exIPRTPTPo8CgufTv2vIRWiFaUcQDwjgzxm_9uQavuIWB1YDYW0uRTPRmmVXV5rOqX48-ch9iPAY6ZKdMky0cMY6_pSuLDYNOnA7lh6cp/s1600/IMG_3030.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlzsKm6vQS5uek2z8SR31RJpOdgkoiW-Qg4P1exIPRTPTPo8CgufTv2vIRWiFaUcQDwjgzxm_9uQavuIWB1YDYW0uRTPRmmVXV5rOqX48-ch9iPAY6ZKdMky0cMY6_pSuLDYNOnA7lh6cp/s1600/IMG_3030.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">roasting marshmallows</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFyW85Htv2Hy8MfemAIBgSKtzzlO7SqzpaZXa969sljqyYny4Ba1O5acwBcTGwZNheczftwGcIrkIJA_cG5sB1zWJaBwG2rCllZJUniw136_0rQTvOWaIC2ownWJjFB6rxVHXsX6G0UoO9/s1600/IMG_3058-001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFyW85Htv2Hy8MfemAIBgSKtzzlO7SqzpaZXa969sljqyYny4Ba1O5acwBcTGwZNheczftwGcIrkIJA_cG5sB1zWJaBwG2rCllZJUniw136_0rQTvOWaIC2ownWJjFB6rxVHXsX6G0UoO9/s1600/IMG_3058-001.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">brotherly love</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf65NH6fmwOdQDzeV9irh5rxCHKyaqE-AVpX89GUbZyA5ueCJUZIHbW_RnmWW6qxGJAf7syRmurRzlqA3WqsMPbsefrczif3HEa2WuBeO-2xCiDicGlqZGlhvJDQbXJHHX4IDQidsnsu60/s1600/IMG_3130.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf65NH6fmwOdQDzeV9irh5rxCHKyaqE-AVpX89GUbZyA5ueCJUZIHbW_RnmWW6qxGJAf7syRmurRzlqA3WqsMPbsefrczif3HEa2WuBeO-2xCiDicGlqZGlhvJDQbXJHHX4IDQidsnsu60/s1600/IMG_3130.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mphati and 'Coach' at Boulder Beach</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkDLsBYmyiUDJ5_wMAQmH7qdZrD2PVjxEgH_eaLlnL26eNgwrIIZPCw2tfYHP9I_r7MAfIa3JfsCokqQqj16f4MtjYRvU-KLbQxx95vNRFZdGuz27ybYLodoDjq7iXRF82x36NcnShm9yV/s1600/DSCN2731.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkDLsBYmyiUDJ5_wMAQmH7qdZrD2PVjxEgH_eaLlnL26eNgwrIIZPCw2tfYHP9I_r7MAfIa3JfsCokqQqj16f4MtjYRvU-KLbQxx95vNRFZdGuz27ybYLodoDjq7iXRF82x36NcnShm9yV/s1600/DSCN2731.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">hangin' out after playing ball..someone always on a cell phone!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxuLhCbCSU0R0vzkJw0xZaeuze4xLP-61AduhLzHYonQC6VCNeaeYk7n7_etcRYf0sIpyJ0U4qQekEaMzv1n5z9vBtClHp9S4ad6N_MI3f2rct-YE-HGY8-WS_Wxzhpl5ulkbyq0tooOAB/s1600/DSCN2841.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxuLhCbCSU0R0vzkJw0xZaeuze4xLP-61AduhLzHYonQC6VCNeaeYk7n7_etcRYf0sIpyJ0U4qQekEaMzv1n5z9vBtClHp9S4ad6N_MI3f2rct-YE-HGY8-WS_Wxzhpl5ulkbyq0tooOAB/s1600/DSCN2841.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sami & Bintyi on the field in Century City</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-J1WJnIxHVFQ6lM1HdFp2Beq4kPPkCsKZc-bkvAtiFUVjUu8TSYyCzRfCv6YRobTR7NroWpOLbVl_DhnWCkICdBwtIhNsGbScIHqleKMkAfxtYNXqWkfqHO0Lq0-4gy2olQ70QqWadz5Q/s1600/DSCN2886.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-J1WJnIxHVFQ6lM1HdFp2Beq4kPPkCsKZc-bkvAtiFUVjUu8TSYyCzRfCv6YRobTR7NroWpOLbVl_DhnWCkICdBwtIhNsGbScIHqleKMkAfxtYNXqWkfqHO0Lq0-4gy2olQ70QqWadz5Q/s1600/DSCN2886.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">best of friends..</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOaRWuABBA719HDirb3GK7xgE6mfQIE0yqwRwU_6mVtMtwS9JF15Q-tI-LMLLbRzdNlht252qRI0zgTG72jfAJvd1IKJFA7HWs1CQ8CEe_3Wy9nJt4PkyF0T_G30ibAmPa9xKpnIb_Zk-R/s1600/IMG_2815.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOaRWuABBA719HDirb3GK7xgE6mfQIE0yqwRwU_6mVtMtwS9JF15Q-tI-LMLLbRzdNlht252qRI0zgTG72jfAJvd1IKJFA7HWs1CQ8CEe_3Wy9nJt4PkyF0T_G30ibAmPa9xKpnIb_Zk-R/s1600/IMG_2815.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">hanging out at the ice skating rink</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOUalfE4Ffk4naYIv-gAZkMERtHng3Dvb5xwXTi4L-fXXOYPhkiFHeyw5qO54ZtDLnCCrAGRmZ-yW4jGJilJY-tXDtss0opsiw7eJ8jDdZs2utAHozv5W5zBiPNzCqDhOpS_9wqymo3PiY/s1600/IMG_2816.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOUalfE4Ffk4naYIv-gAZkMERtHng3Dvb5xwXTi4L-fXXOYPhkiFHeyw5qO54ZtDLnCCrAGRmZ-yW4jGJilJY-tXDtss0opsiw7eJ8jDdZs2utAHozv5W5zBiPNzCqDhOpS_9wqymo3PiY/s1600/IMG_2816.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Linda singing 'I'm Building Me a Home' in Malmesbury</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeeC1DgTWU5cDX67Sg5oQ810pIHRdutv843OsIsnpX3HHUf6wwy4LJqHAmYo8KO0o77G_G52P8VJ_z1i7k8mhXLYUBm1hny1CsCXPRjeDW-XGDsUOJXCYHtqRGdn9BkgTFv9U8FtJ51Rsq/s1600/IMG_2864.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeeC1DgTWU5cDX67Sg5oQ810pIHRdutv843OsIsnpX3HHUf6wwy4LJqHAmYo8KO0o77G_G52P8VJ_z1i7k8mhXLYUBm1hny1CsCXPRjeDW-XGDsUOJXCYHtqRGdn9BkgTFv9U8FtJ51Rsq/s1600/IMG_2864.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">everyone loves Coach</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitJk1kNgEhFK4KttRoe3xcwMk6jywakB2IWz3uR5h5cJYhdjIcMQSugRgIUk56rfVLPN-UmFZq16bT0-QcVEiRVKQfbnFUmNE_D4DW8TS8DSDsR29GtS1h-mBtbGwk2DqCgj20HUE815KU/s1600/IMG_3099.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitJk1kNgEhFK4KttRoe3xcwMk6jywakB2IWz3uR5h5cJYhdjIcMQSugRgIUk56rfVLPN-UmFZq16bT0-QcVEiRVKQfbnFUmNE_D4DW8TS8DSDsR29GtS1h-mBtbGwk2DqCgj20HUE815KU/s1600/IMG_3099.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dyami showing his card trick at the V&A Waterfront food court</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi19pk4ufnRxNzEZMekP1PS0X-bZaAwp_wuSYRRPYhDdRaU6ciDX-V6K0vwlywQ7FakcjSMTZonBfnszAh__tR-CVRH2GFziVC3LMUKR9pFOE8vZg__WTn0ADkWjLB1LfB4ZKIiJMsu1wMG/s1600/IMG_3121.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi19pk4ufnRxNzEZMekP1PS0X-bZaAwp_wuSYRRPYhDdRaU6ciDX-V6K0vwlywQ7FakcjSMTZonBfnszAh__tR-CVRH2GFziVC3LMUKR9pFOE8vZg__WTn0ADkWjLB1LfB4ZKIiJMsu1wMG/s1600/IMG_3121.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">such a beautiful day at Boulder Beach by the penguins</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF9_QyP1Yc-3S6W4x1pD3NDMLaN6DdjeTLf2cQh-Arvp7ohQQxgnoAUZCOvTWD-Hgv-yPVCtYSXaHi-kHMAKInH2Dyd8FvegDCQZa3gB1a3AOh58KMwZ7ENjWy6pL1olyQ1244RWR6SjGk/s1600/IMG_2994.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF9_QyP1Yc-3S6W4x1pD3NDMLaN6DdjeTLf2cQh-Arvp7ohQQxgnoAUZCOvTWD-Hgv-yPVCtYSXaHi-kHMAKInH2Dyd8FvegDCQZa3gB1a3AOh58KMwZ7ENjWy6pL1olyQ1244RWR6SjGk/s1600/IMG_2994.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">working on a rap together in English and Xhosa</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHfkPq1nxw_IRIcBzMbKe8_k30bdTCv6W8H85mpEWo7OuICWcWRJZLfDQCG780OthNhZ-KlFgR3OFVyqUY0dEFOceQZ5wRvj18hI-Ip6Vn5oJIeuoA_6hxXKDd1EuhJW01kC1rlHf-9M3F/s1600/IMG_2886.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHfkPq1nxw_IRIcBzMbKe8_k30bdTCv6W8H85mpEWo7OuICWcWRJZLfDQCG780OthNhZ-KlFgR3OFVyqUY0dEFOceQZ5wRvj18hI-Ip6Vn5oJIeuoA_6hxXKDd1EuhJW01kC1rlHf-9M3F/s1600/IMG_2886.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">in front of the Christmas tree at the V&A Waterfront</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjL9aaoAIyJxIjXgY8pgktVbTjN6pWy504qrFDOE1Z0qc1cnIFoq7vcDaxLmfwSVUlP5yLHdZ2e7o_BQTkj1sdhtGQkP2PwbWCzUpYkYaodipXVSZ_s60rAGYmX0f9eJHxVg77frES0MI6l/s1600/IMG_2943.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjL9aaoAIyJxIjXgY8pgktVbTjN6pWy504qrFDOE1Z0qc1cnIFoq7vcDaxLmfwSVUlP5yLHdZ2e7o_BQTkj1sdhtGQkP2PwbWCzUpYkYaodipXVSZ_s60rAGYmX0f9eJHxVg77frES0MI6l/s1600/IMG_2943.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">unity in diversity :)</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKYWjIMIyoglRrgG0yyRa62mpeRaUL8-PfeKT85iNDog3ET6MgScqiaVXYW7LdXG5be98PB__gZfDNaoQTCgQtrxZZfYbZHxU7bdTw6B-blEOFtaBU6gO9INtqF66Jg78kGFO3GWzJ8N3t/s1600/IMG_3072-001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKYWjIMIyoglRrgG0yyRa62mpeRaUL8-PfeKT85iNDog3ET6MgScqiaVXYW7LdXG5be98PB__gZfDNaoQTCgQtrxZZfYbZHxU7bdTw6B-blEOFtaBU6gO9INtqF66Jg78kGFO3GWzJ8N3t/s1600/IMG_3072-001.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">playing Pictionary</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisAcpMI8cz4W7Ewq39R84wVWKhJnIYZk5xA65oJtRv1uMb3iCCBbIUosFWmWsUPRzJq52PxTuU84q9asSLdA44sGGN4J3O73SKtSQrd4P7rzyqd4-Atzhh6xXPzgGWY50_Uf180YCAEUww/s1600/IMG_3082.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisAcpMI8cz4W7Ewq39R84wVWKhJnIYZk5xA65oJtRv1uMb3iCCBbIUosFWmWsUPRzJq52PxTuU84q9asSLdA44sGGN4J3O73SKtSQrd4P7rzyqd4-Atzhh6xXPzgGWY50_Uf180YCAEUww/s1600/IMG_3082.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">rotating sleeping together..on the floor</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhsRxFf40UDnLvVZsI111BXGJyfh2QyW6l2q_e0CGW0fuASEKX6pv7H-clxOEHmuUKriRqDizKdTxQf-fxEoTiILS5VFrXnOn4cxPAseVL_xRJz95pyZzvlnWO1YT-2_ZsL2bSWC5swYG5/s1600/IMG_3089.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhsRxFf40UDnLvVZsI111BXGJyfh2QyW6l2q_e0CGW0fuASEKX6pv7H-clxOEHmuUKriRqDizKdTxQf-fxEoTiILS5VFrXnOn4cxPAseVL_xRJz95pyZzvlnWO1YT-2_ZsL2bSWC5swYG5/s1600/IMG_3089.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">intensive studying book 1</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIJASnZzZMK0AIyJvOSTms9TiDjZtEEMvYKXIs0Kw-Ry9LoLLroWzdb8oGhGSC2HSlirzWtwC8CEyNkGBEqVC_oX4Xom-7bXXgdFySU2VkQWnwllmCjHVyB04-sXuWqqWR93MKUUjDSiZU/s1600/IMG_3147.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIJASnZzZMK0AIyJvOSTms9TiDjZtEEMvYKXIs0Kw-Ry9LoLLroWzdb8oGhGSC2HSlirzWtwC8CEyNkGBEqVC_oX4Xom-7bXXgdFySU2VkQWnwllmCjHVyB04-sXuWqqWR93MKUUjDSiZU/s1600/IMG_3147.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">exhausted and smushed in our small rental car together (all 7 of them)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsyzpH4-Ok-RWscFMP6qYHXGQES4MZZBRFaXPRQp85tvEEXcLcWmGBXmL-Mrzv9Fmmc7yWTBUwipJBY52i_8nPq5QoX5ONszdA94tjH0_Y-kFV9O-1t9-ZsPRBIq4l_I1W3zNQjoUGzz6Y/s1600/IMG_2986.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsyzpH4-Ok-RWscFMP6qYHXGQES4MZZBRFaXPRQp85tvEEXcLcWmGBXmL-Mrzv9Fmmc7yWTBUwipJBY52i_8nPq5QoX5ONszdA94tjH0_Y-kFV9O-1t9-ZsPRBIq4l_I1W3zNQjoUGzz6Y/s1600/IMG_2986.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">recreating the pose that most of us did together 3 years ago</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqpJndwQie2GbBjM6VGO_LbzJn2TJ-FDhyp_Odl6SHcETjjqzhYXsEwPrcUNkTzA9lju-AUpGzvLVux7s_zzF7hQwIJcWPeUb3HEoK2_yz5D3J0qYaxmliA5_hyxkEM5ZRBkcnDAir8wHN/s1600/IMG_3074.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqpJndwQie2GbBjM6VGO_LbzJn2TJ-FDhyp_Odl6SHcETjjqzhYXsEwPrcUNkTzA9lju-AUpGzvLVux7s_zzF7hQwIJcWPeUb3HEoK2_yz5D3J0qYaxmliA5_hyxkEM5ZRBkcnDAir8wHN/s1600/IMG_3074.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">true brotherhood</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjntQmGq1n3Ma94Ens8ECFmCRiq0xaEsndjaIorH54ubV4jpN6BDglJ0qRL8UMdzqPf-DXWxWXgzOvPviSp391KM1bXvt8ICO2mI0KDAKzJjyXt4v45Eo6Ehl-rrXg-zzjTmXiI5LfteDk/s1600/IMG_3049.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjntQmGq1n3Ma94Ens8ECFmCRiq0xaEsndjaIorH54ubV4jpN6BDglJ0qRL8UMdzqPf-DXWxWXgzOvPviSp391KM1bXvt8ICO2mI0KDAKzJjyXt4v45Eo6Ehl-rrXg-zzjTmXiI5LfteDk/s1600/IMG_3049.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">very happy to be together at the Abedian home</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0lxsNaSJ4Jh1-20Jkn85CS56Dx0jVwctjOWIfxcTYWzcJISMPqUw0DEbtirVd2F0sC7vhWxy58JGd61tnvvBKOMkcc7iOYuv8LISALs15iLSz5KjSesGfYfctyqj9aKKx0XlLR1B5Oe0I/s1600/IMG_2944.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0lxsNaSJ4Jh1-20Jkn85CS56Dx0jVwctjOWIfxcTYWzcJISMPqUw0DEbtirVd2F0sC7vhWxy58JGd61tnvvBKOMkcc7iOYuv8LISALs15iLSz5KjSesGfYfctyqj9aKKx0XlLR1B5Oe0I/s1600/IMG_2944.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">carrying the washing machine to the outside basin to rinse out the water</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivzSFPG5cjg7rfzAJFyJ3w8N3H5t1coKbB6YnqgfGtRf6t9A5KDb3npC8MnnRPZyNHZLgRjBycyn00HJyiCTnmoa_ZCPA6dFZGEm6Ie959D7vWKP_U7JECI0M9gvJT9s79n3jPj6K-mBvu/s1600/IMG_2946-001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivzSFPG5cjg7rfzAJFyJ3w8N3H5t1coKbB6YnqgfGtRf6t9A5KDb3npC8MnnRPZyNHZLgRjBycyn00HJyiCTnmoa_ZCPA6dFZGEm6Ie959D7vWKP_U7JECI0M9gvJT9s79n3jPj6K-mBvu/s1600/IMG_2946-001.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">at a movie theater to watch Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom together</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjGlNjF7i7GtZq1vg4BTZwlxFwWUghhd7TyuJJMhDhn28bA2cRwFACYpXyssHsixCM0rNs4WnUIdkrrJ2Mv5N5qXV8C1-yS8In1Ly2sAjcJbpype9Yxi1SpMOhA8V5Gm0NRuHwl-0UL5ty/s1600/IMG_2950.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjGlNjF7i7GtZq1vg4BTZwlxFwWUghhd7TyuJJMhDhn28bA2cRwFACYpXyssHsixCM0rNs4WnUIdkrrJ2Mv5N5qXV8C1-yS8In1Ly2sAjcJbpype9Yxi1SpMOhA8V5Gm0NRuHwl-0UL5ty/s1600/IMG_2950.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">playing American football on the Sea Point promenade</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpoqAwy6jlCe9caCD4JzplMPlX2NHTiJeWumRvoHlhDecymyDYeBOiFaXlouuI1aQuageBn43HBWPDcfoduxZDARW_ZOsPSIimM3GN5VOwKvh77fdUycqv4yEym9R_6F3F-tsH5NLFuZ2F/s1600/IMG_2973-001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpoqAwy6jlCe9caCD4JzplMPlX2NHTiJeWumRvoHlhDecymyDYeBOiFaXlouuI1aQuageBn43HBWPDcfoduxZDARW_ZOsPSIimM3GN5VOwKvh77fdUycqv4yEym9R_6F3F-tsH5NLFuZ2F/s1600/IMG_2973-001.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">last day together</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
moments like these are eternal imprints on our souls. we will discover the patterns we've woven in our hearts with each other in the worlds beyond. there is nothing that matters more to me in this life than establishing spiritual bonds of friendship. praise be to God for these moments..Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9080787584917222254.post-14406178189854246432014-03-18T11:13:00.001+01:002014-03-18T11:34:25.368+01:00Mali music 'Beautiful'<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="270" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/lcO3BHSWVno" width="480"></iframe> this guy's music is smooth, spiritual and rhythmic.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9080787584917222254.post-6283908523909003432014-02-11T11:31:00.001+01:002014-02-11T11:43:54.460+01:00I've Got The Spirit (Baha'i song)<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="270" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/vxXPND9UmKE" width="480"></iframe>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9080787584917222254.post-75816580349313202092013-12-12T17:08:00.000+01:002013-12-13T16:18:11.828+01:00Madiba ~ reflecting<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJoaPDDv_kokVABpw1JKYKk_RFO2Bldo-Vbu8qw2sH6Ajt9ZQITnaV-fnoUqcxt-JIYb0lAJ1KkyQyBnc7NezZXp7ReONOeVbbbyiWM0D9rKgqp6pB0DgZ5RgZV9ELnaybewKRKWx9pkod/s1600/Madiba+grandeur.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="263" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJoaPDDv_kokVABpw1JKYKk_RFO2Bldo-Vbu8qw2sH6Ajt9ZQITnaV-fnoUqcxt-JIYb0lAJ1KkyQyBnc7NezZXp7ReONOeVbbbyiWM0D9rKgqp6pB0DgZ5RgZV9ELnaybewKRKWx9pkod/s400/Madiba+grandeur.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
this is the moment in history, billions of us are sharing <a href="http://edition.cnn.com/2013/12/10/world/africa/nelson-mandela-memorial/index.html?hpt=hp_t1">Madiba's passing</a> -- sharing emotions, sentiments, photos, <a href="http://mg.co.za/article/2013-12-10-obamas-tribute-to-mandela-the-full-speech/?fb_action_ids=10152680823994240&fb_action_types=og.recommends&fb_source=other_multiline&action_object_map=[1387589384823071]&action_type_map=[%22og.recommends%22]&action_ref_map=[]">speeches</a>, <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_QsFHejAZBA&feature=youtu.be">videos</a> and <a href="http://africanconsciousnessdotorg.wordpress.com/2013/12/11/madibas-memorial/">reflections</a>. most of all we are <a href="http://www.aljazeera.com/indepth/opinion/2013/12/hamba-kahle-madiba-201312891743100712.html">recounting his spirit</a>, that magnetic force of his character that was so magnanimous and exemplary in the face of all that was oppressive and unjust..<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAPjTL3A7qL5eeB6CoH2LxoIVdp6AF8UF8fe31ykfF3DZKQSXxO3rTCQxEFKidAIs8aX4McRuHmE3KrnSDbGOkjyEKPmo6HUlCBDcpRjQfyoCT0P0ZtHHEAqx2lV6SneYeFjE6YJqr2ILL/s1600/Madiba+rugby.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAPjTL3A7qL5eeB6CoH2LxoIVdp6AF8UF8fe31ykfF3DZKQSXxO3rTCQxEFKidAIs8aX4McRuHmE3KrnSDbGOkjyEKPmo6HUlCBDcpRjQfyoCT0P0ZtHHEAqx2lV6SneYeFjE6YJqr2ILL/s320/Madiba+rugby.jpg" width="222" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">sporting his prison # at a rugby game 2005</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
it is a moment when i feel like a drop of water in the ocean of humanity. the waves of oneness are stirring. Nelson Mandela's soul has permeated the world of existence and is pervading the depths of our hearts. this shared consciousness enables the wave of his spirit to surge and penetrate deep into the ocean of our hearts. it feels like all of us are now connected through his spirit and are regenerated to reach higher standards of conduct for ourselves in the face of injustice and oppression, difficulties and despair.<br />
<br />
i am riding the wave of humility as i strive each day to live as a <a href="http://www.bahai.org/">Baha'i</a> which is none other than embodying all human perfections and dedicating my life as a servant of God to the betterment of the human race. Madiba inspires me because he triumphed over anger and bitterness, hatred and revenge. he embodied the necessary perfections of forgiveness and magnanimity after 27 years of experiencing a suffering in the face of ignorance and oppression i try to imagine but cannot. he embodied <i>ubuntu </i>-- he was all that he was because he fully embodied the spiritual reality that we become fully ourselves through serving others rather than ourselves.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGw6coN02g2bo3msK2VAvB-NQOEStY8SD_QWLVRp6p0nofyAH11erzfX1kbTLPX_l2gwudErRp3lwsCl0O2pbNAMMyHvcELcMIMTf3uIpyc-Lq7XYdcYF6ZPihdBQ3WWXmgRFAgLaX_QAT/s1600/madiba.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="263" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGw6coN02g2bo3msK2VAvB-NQOEStY8SD_QWLVRp6p0nofyAH11erzfX1kbTLPX_l2gwudErRp3lwsCl0O2pbNAMMyHvcELcMIMTf3uIpyc-Lq7XYdcYF6ZPihdBQ3WWXmgRFAgLaX_QAT/s400/madiba.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
may Madiba's soul exert its powers from that realm beyond and contribute to the progress and well-being of the world throughout the ages to come. <br />
<br />
<i>"The light which these souls radiate is responsible for the progress of the world and the advancement of its peoples. They are like unto leaven which leaveneth the world of being, and constitute the animating force through which the arts and wonders of the world are made manifest. Through them the clouds rain their bounty upon men, and the earth bringeth forth its fruits."</i><br />
<br />
~ <a href="http://www.bahaullah.org/">Baha'u'llah</a>, Gleanings from the Writings of Baha'u'llah, p. 156Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9080787584917222254.post-89396773060736668162013-10-24T06:28:00.001+02:002013-10-24T06:28:17.329+02:00prayer ~ spiritual nourishment<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtXdzuvhORlgp8j7OzxduZuWukICvFH4CELTrbRNpZ-K6J8_PdhxUcIHKtkGdoy_fBShpltF5KyhqWwD1Ejh-c_XgLGPZFiw4tPdyXCmkBbNPNWqu3fZkAbw3RRClAXkpN4YFn-P-MlHNX/s1600/strive.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="256" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtXdzuvhORlgp8j7OzxduZuWukICvFH4CELTrbRNpZ-K6J8_PdhxUcIHKtkGdoy_fBShpltF5KyhqWwD1Ejh-c_XgLGPZFiw4tPdyXCmkBbNPNWqu3fZkAbw3RRClAXkpN4YFn-P-MlHNX/s320/strive.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
"Indeed the chief reason for the evils now rampant in society is the lack of spirituality. The materialistic civilization of our age has so much absorbed the energy and interest of mankind that people in general do no longer feel the necessity of raising themselves above the forces and conditions of their daily material existence. There is not sufficient demand for things that we call spiritual to differentiate them from the needs and requirements of our physical existence.<br /><br />"The universal crisis affecting mankind is, therefore, essentially spiritual in its causes. The spirit of the age, taken on the whole, is irreligious. Man's outlook on life is too crude and materialistic to enable him to elevate himself into the higher realms of the spirit.<br /><br />"It is this condition, so sadly morbid, into which society has fallen, that religion seeks to improve and transform. For the core of religious faith is that mystic feeling which unites Man with God. This state of spiritual communion can be brought about and maintained by means of meditation and prayer. And this is the reason why Bahá'u'lláh has so much stressed the importance of worship. It is not sufficient for a believer merely to accept and observe the teachings. He should, in addition, cultivate the sense of spirituality which he can acquire chiefly by means of prayer. The Bahá'í Faith, like all other Divine Religions, is thus fundamentally mystic in character. Its chief goal is the development of the individual and society, through the acquisition of spiritual virtues and powers. It is the soul of man which has first to be fed. And this spiritual nourishment prayer can best provide.<br /><br />"Laws and institutions, as viewed by Bahá'u'lláh, can become really effective only when our inner spiritual life has been perfected and transformed. Otherwise religion will degenerate into a mere organization, and becomes a dead thing. The believers, particularly the young ones, should therefore fully realize the necessity of praying. For prayer is absolutely indispensable to their inner spiritual development, and this, as already stated, is the very foundation and purpose of the religion of God."<br /><br /> (Shoghi Effendi, Directives from the Guardian, p. 86)<br /><br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9080787584917222254.post-629286457966786772013-09-22T19:22:00.001+02:002013-09-25T06:46:43.636+02:00Jo'berg, South Africa -- Youth Conference<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="344" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/y6udE9bCBvY" width="459"></iframe> these songs depict the spirit of oneness, true joy and universal brotherhood. this is the Baha'i Faith offering humanity love, nobility of purpose and the light of unity in diversity..Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9080787584917222254.post-32254078261732726362013-09-22T15:03:00.004+02:002013-10-01T15:22:17.168+02:00Westgate attack<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiDBoqjYS6_r2YhNakF8FxiEfRoDb9ntW_GpolvQExTjXwcHdjwoA5iKKJow2FfJXQfNkLlktysOXvgoqslocv5C33yuSdyVrF-VJXIMyaUhrlvsl7Us5ZH77pfiTW5ieYZQVy1_Yr-uw9/s1600/kenya+oneness.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiDBoqjYS6_r2YhNakF8FxiEfRoDb9ntW_GpolvQExTjXwcHdjwoA5iKKJow2FfJXQfNkLlktysOXvgoqslocv5C33yuSdyVrF-VJXIMyaUhrlvsl7Us5ZH77pfiTW5ieYZQVy1_Yr-uw9/s320/kenya+oneness.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">people coming together as one</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
the helicopters continue to fly above our home. it's been 27 hours since the <a href="http://www.aljazeera.com/news/africa/2013/09/2013921174856564470.html">Westgate mall was attacked</a>.
we live a couple of miles from the mall. we were there that morning. <br />
<br />
we found our grocery receipt from that day -- it reads
12:03pm. the gunmen were probably in the upper parking lot by that
time. shots were reported soon after we left. we usually shop there on
Saturday afternoons..but not yesterday. by the grace of God
and His Will we were inspired to leave our home earlier to avoid the
crowds and have most of the day at home to unpack our shipment which had
just arrived on Friday.<br />
<br />
we keep pondering what would have happened <a href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/in-pictures-24329418">if we were there</a>.. <br />
<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/z7V5Apa6gyo?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe><span class="userContent"></span></div>
</blockquote>
<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="userContent">"There has been a revival of religious
fanaticism in all parts of the globe, and among people of varied faiths.
It is a truly worldwide phenomenon and, in our view, a deeply
disturbing one, for religious fanaticism breeds hatred and violenc<span class="text_exposed_show">e.
We need not look far to find numerous examples in the world today of
the civil strife, <a href="http://www.aljazeera.com/news/africa/2013/09/201392322303151177.html">terror</a> and human suffering that religious fanaticism
has wreaked upon religious communities and entire nations. Its
pernicious influence can be found at the root of all too many of the
wars, conflicts and other ills undermining peace in the world, including
the problem of terrorism.<br /> <br /> "Fanaticism represents a perversion
of religion and is directly contrary to the humane teachings brought by
the Founders of all the great religions of the world. We believe that
the purpose of every religion has been to promote unity among all the
peoples of the world, and to outlaw war and violence in human affairs.
All the major religions have taught the "Golden Rule." The violence and
disruption associated with religious fanaticism testifies to its
spiritual emptiness. Fanaticism destroys the very foundations of human
solidarity by dividing the world into contending factions, each
believing itself to be superior to others and to have an exclusive claim
on religious truth. These actions and attitudes negate the very purpose
of religion."<br /> <br /> ~ Baha'i International Community, 1987 Mar 03, Eliminating Religious Intolerance</span></span> </div>
</blockquote>
<div style="text-align: center;">
*****</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
"From the seed of reality, religion has grown into a tree which has put forth leaves and branches, blossoms and fruit. After a time this tree has fallen into a condition of decay. The leaves and blossoms have withered and perished; the tree has become stricken and fruitless. It is not reasonable that man should hold to the old tree, claiming that its life forces are undiminished, its fruit unequaled, its existence eternal. </blockquote>
<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
The seed of reality must be sown again in human hearts in order that a new tree may grow therefrom and new divine fruits refresh the world. By this means the nations and peoples now divergent in religion will be brought into unity, imitations will be forsaken and a universal brotherhood in the reality itself will be established. Warfare and strife will cease among mankind; all will be reconciled as servants of God. For all are sheltered beneath the tree of His providence and mercy. </blockquote>
<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
God is kind to all; He is the giver of bounty to all alike, even as His Holiness Jesus Christ has declared that God "sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust"; that is to say, the mercy of God is universal. All humanity is under the protection of His love and favor, and unto all He has pointed the way of guidance and progress."<br />
<br />
~ Abdu'l-Baha, Baha'i World Faith - Abdu'l-Baha Section, p. 226</blockquote>
</div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9080787584917222254.post-16943733116935911452013-09-09T07:12:00.000+02:002013-09-09T07:12:41.537+02:00If You Believe - song/rap about UNITY<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="270" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/TIVYe9i5O80" width="480"></iframe><br />
<br />
a beautiful song and message about UNITY..Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9080787584917222254.post-84830728549891658222013-09-06T14:59:00.000+02:002013-09-07T15:27:07.128+02:00parenting advice from kaaka Irene<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXxYJJRpBTfTJLDimDgVbWqhrDZsa0wWhRuQxq7hn0SBjU-Yd35at-ggcdT7q-HBOjCwime4fTBNov9CVfNmZa8mJy3qFyPiyHscbRi6tkRxXJX-aMwMxYAzm_9NqE1JpOcAzzYGpnQ1Zd/s1600/IMG_1864.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXxYJJRpBTfTJLDimDgVbWqhrDZsa0wWhRuQxq7hn0SBjU-Yd35at-ggcdT7q-HBOjCwime4fTBNov9CVfNmZa8mJy3qFyPiyHscbRi6tkRxXJX-aMwMxYAzm_9NqE1JpOcAzzYGpnQ1Zd/s400/IMG_1864.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
'kaaka' means 'grandmother' in one of the Ugandan languages. kaaka Irene is my dear friend, Osiria's, mother. from the moment i met her, there was a spiritual connection of love that brought us close together. her bright smile and warm heart were like a magnet for mine. <br />
<br />
one time i went to kaaka Irene's room to visit with her. we sat on the bed together and talked like old friends. we sorted dry beans, removing the rotten ones from the good ones as we talked about the spirit of life. she was ready to answer the question i had first asked her upon meeting her: 'What advice would you give me to raise my daughter?"<br />
<br />
kaaka Irene raised a daughter whose heart is overflowing with love for
God in a genuinely spiritual way of living her life. her daughter is
such a spiritual rock in my life that i had to ask kaaka Irene that
question. i wanted to know what she did or how she lived to convey that
spirit and moral character into her daughter. <br />
<br />
with a page full of notes written in her native tongue she began translating her answer into English (a language she taught herself as an adult while living in Uganda!) while i listened intently to every wise word she humbly offered. briefly, this is the advice she gave: <br />
<br />
<ul>
<li><span style="color: black;">Parents have to lead by example because kids are always observing to see if you
are doing what you say or if its mere talk </span></li>
<li><span style="color: black;">Parents
should speak into the lives of their kids...we have the power to create by the
words we say...speak what you want to see happen in the lives of your children</span></li>
<li><span style="color: black;">Affirm
your children and let them know they are very, very precious; let them know what
can add or reduce the value of their lives</span></li>
<li><span style="color: black;">Choosing
friends wisely and not following the path of the wrongdoers..this involves
learning to say no even to peer pressure...even at the risk of being unpopular
among peers....the good should always overcome the bad</span></li>
<li><span style="color: black;">Make
devotion and prayer a habit...total dependence on the guidance of God</span></li>
<li><span style="color: black;">As mothers, we have a big role to play
because we have the power to impact generations</span></li>
</ul>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;">
<br />
listening to kaaka Irene that afternoon left an imprint on my soul. she spoke as an elder with wisdom -- that blend of spiritual qualities which glows through silence and speech, through stillness and deeds. her heartfelt words, spoken oftentimes with passion and emphasis, made my soul feel as if it was being nourished. it felt as if my ancestors and holy souls orchestrated this moment in my life. i was hungry for her knowledge and experience and she shared it so generously and thoughtfully with me as if i was her own daughter. it was one of those gems of oneness in my life..</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0