I just got a letter today from a precious girl that lives in Uganda. I have sponsored this young lady for about 11 years. She is nearing 18, will be soon graduating then I will be out of her life. That truly makes me sad because she has taught me so much. When I first signed up to sponsor another child I got a photo. This little 7 year old was grinning at the camera beautiful dark skin, dark eyes and a smile that covered her face. She had her hands on her hips and a little girl sassy stance. I instantly fell in love with this spunky little thing.
One Christmas when I sent $20.00 she bought a goat. I’m not kidding, a goat! It was practical. Her birthday money was used for clothes that she would show me proudly in a photo. Always things that were needed never a purchase for Christmas or Birthdays that wasn’t a necessity. Her letters would tell of her country’s trouble, violence, poverty, and difficulty. But they would always portray enormous hope. She believes in a better tomorrow. Her education struggles and successes would be relayed in great detail always promising to do better. I never asked that of her when I wrote back just encouraged her to give it her best. It is she that holds high standards.
We have shared family stories through the years. Mine of my daughters, my preacher father in law and my husband. She would speak at great length of her extended family. There were always so many I would have to go back to see who she talked about before. I learned how close they all were and how dependent upon one another. This was not only because of their love but it was out of necessity. Many could live together cheaper than few. But again she never complained. She delighted in those she loved.
I wanted to tell you about Nyakwera well, because she is special. She lives in an African country in a world much more difficult than mine. She loves well, she strives to do her best, she inspires me with every letter I receive. I will miss this precious treasure God placed in my life when she leaves the sponsorship program to enter adulthood. I am proud to have shared in her life and watched her grow into an amazing young lady. I truly dread that final letter when we say goodbye. But I am better having known her and she will forever have a piece of my heart.