DAY TWELVE – Tuesday, June 17, 2008

Last day at the construction site. I spent most of the day cutting out windows…sparks and zinc shards flying everywhere.

Our final Sunday school time with the kids. The craft was to make crosses out of popsicle sticks and pipe cleaners – the kids loved them. We acted out Jesus calming the sea, played more games and sang more songs. We concluded by saying goodbye, promising them that they now have friends in America, that we’d continue to pray for them and that we love them. A few we love you too’s were offered back, serving as the final straw to our already breaking hearts. Our subtle use of “babayini” (goodbye) this time instead of our traditional “sabonana” (see you soon) carries a conclusive weight that resonates deep inside us all.

The group prayed for Larry as we would not see him after today. We gathered and laid hands on him, he was visibly moved. It was a meaningful moment for many. Later we circled inside the pre-school when we had accomplished all that we could with this last day. I can’t describe the pride within, the sense of accomplishment from where we started to how we will leave it. As we prayed, recognizing the finality of the moment, a tear fell from my eye into the sand floor that was to soon be covered with cement by another team. If I were to get sappy, I’d say that this was a external representation of what has happened inside me here…leaving a bit of myself in this place, on this continent. We all sign one of the window frames, so we can leave a lasting mark in this place. “Ubukumkani (for the kingdom), Team Mocha Club, June 2008” graces the frame along with our signatures. Knowing children will see the names of those who played a small role in this dwelling delights the soul.

Later that night, we would share dinner at the “Stumble Inn” hostile where another church group from Nashville was staying while here to support African Leadership on the heels of our impending departure. Pastor Ohm asked each of us to speak to this new group from the heart. In doing so, I was touched by our team’s unity…how far we had come, the riotous inside jokes we all share, and our ability to accurately read each other. In my mind’s eye, I watched us talk to them from outside myself…I saw an amazingly tight group, in His hands, in His will, and in His family. It’s my turn and I advise them to soak everything in. Appreciate being here. And listen to Africa…for it will talk to you.

Back at the mission house, we learn how to stay connected while back home. Our group can sustain this same pre-school for just $250/month or one child can attend this pre-school (complete with meals) for $30/month. Why I work to earn a paycheck back home becomes clearer.