If I Had Only Known…

It was a long flight from Los Angeles to Nairobi, Kenya. I didn’t notice. I was too excited.
Thanks to IVHQ, I was going to live and teach in the Maasai community. What an opportunity to immerse myself in this beautiful culture.
I arrived early but it was soon Saturday- Orientation Day. The other volunteers arrived from all over the world. Everyone was so kind and caring. Did IVHQ just attract the nicest people, I wondered?
There were just two of us going to Maasailand. We left for our new ‘home’ for two weeks. We drove down a very bumpy road to Ngong and then further to a rural area. It was quietly beautiful. A family of four greeted us along with a herd of very healthy looking goats.
The next two weeks we’re full of wonder. My lovely roommate and I had each other to go through all the experiences. Primitive living. No running water in the house. No heating. And the ‘toilet shed’ was several yards from the house. My head flashlight was a blessing!
Sundays were Church days. Monday through Friday I was teaching in a school on Ngong.
I cannot tell you in a few words what an extraordinary time I had. Joyful and challenging.
Fifty children in the class of 6-7 year olds. Room for 30. Such a fine teacher. Smart and clever. It took no more than a few minutes to love the children. We had such a good time together.
I was able to contribute to their school supplies; exercise books, pencils, crayons etc. and to buy some equipment for their sports days on Fridays.
I was so difficult to leave them. Time and tears!
IVHQ made me feel completely supported all the time. Their Kenyan team was at the other end of the phone if you needed and they drove us to various events. Viv a vis The Outreach Program. A wonderful two days of learning and fun! So much to share…..
I had the time of my life. If I had only known, I would have volunteered much sooner.
You will treasure your memories forever..as I shall.
Don’t wait. Follow your dreams and open your heart. The world is waiting!