Lesson Learnt From Daadab, Kenya

I recently joined the World Food Programme ( Fighting Hunger Worldwide) community in Kenya, my initiative to do my part to fight hunger in Kenya, to build a better Kenya and world. Motivation from my loving mother.

What was meant to be a training trip for my mum in Daadab, Kenya (Biggest refugee camps in the world) turned out to be an eye opener. Her experience there through her off balance, she didn't come back the same but as time passed by she became the mother I always knew. She now has a new mission to accomplish and I'm glad to be part of it.

Mothers and children staring through a barbed wire fence, their little palms placed on the fence, little ones crying on the backs of their mothers. Concentration carried away by the new faces that have arrived in the area. Each one of them hoping that good news has been brought their way. Heaviness filled her heart, eyes were then filled with tears and mixed emotions raced through her mind. She stretched out her hand to the little ones to say hi. "Stop! Don’t get close to them" Mothers shielded their children so fast and she didn't understand why!

Sleepless nights were her normal routine for the entire week. She thought about them the whole time she was there. They were not Kenyans but they came to Kenya to seek help. Each of them had a story to share with the world and she wanted to hear it.

Children gathered around her and a little one sat on her lap. Mothers chatting with each other it’s like they had known each other for a long time. Laughter’s and tears were shared. Bags packed and ready to leave.  When she waved good bye she felt like she was leaving a part of her behind. On the plane back home she couldn’t stop crying. Those women taught her one thing that she'll always treasure and will pass on to her grandchildren and great grandchildren. Appreciation!!!

Those women appreciated their living conditions no matter the state they are in. They appreciated each and everyday they woke up in the morning and looked at their children smiling and playing with the others. They appreciated the togetherness and above all they appreciated the families they've gotten to know. They look at the past and appreciate the present more. :) 

That trip changed my mother’s perspective in life and whatever she learnt back there, she shared with us. Each and everyday we appreciate everything we have and become grateful for it. Her trip helped my family to start reaching out to the less fortunate. The best part to start helping is around your area & there is the place my family is starting its course to help the less fortunate in society. I’m glad to be helping the less fortunate with my family. J

"We tend to forget that happiness doesn't come as a result of getting something we don't have, but rather of recognizing and appreciating what we do have.” Frederick Keonig