Challenges

One of the most remarkable aspects of the 2007 Tanzania trip was the visit to the ‘Light in Africa’ orphanage in Moshi, where around 20 children make their home. In terms of actualising what poverty is, it was a wake-up call for me. We spent only an hour and a half at the orphanage, which may seem like a long time to some, but was gone all too soon. It was an absolutely unforgettable experience for a few key reasons, the most obvious being the orphan that I spent time with. 

This is Deo (pronounced: ‘DAY-OH’) and the main activity we shared involved me pushing him around in his little red car. It was amazing how quickly time flew by, but I still remember specific moments from my experience, such as: Deo reaching for a little plastic triangle on the ground and smiling broadly when I gave it to him, his imitations of me when I put the triangle on my nose, ear or near my eye, his impatience when I stopped pushing and his joy when I kept going.

Of course, these are only memories that I have of the orphanage; some students held infants in their arms, others played with the toddlers and their toys, and some just gently cradled newborn babies in their laps. In any case, each student who went on the trip has their own unique story to tell. In any case, each student who went on the trip has their own unique story to tell. However, we all shared in one particular moment of intense sadness; as our bus was starting to leave, Deo came to the door of the orphanage and watched us go with the most heart-wrenchingly anguished face I have ever seen. 

This image will remain with me forever as I have a personal connection to both the photo and the child in it. Whenever I look at the picture, I still feel the absolute sadness I felt on that day. Our visit to the orphanage, while short-lived, obviously meant the world to these children, who have no visitors nor anybody to love them – except the three ladies who work there for the equivalent of the cost for a bottle of Coke a day.

Their facilities are extremely basic, with 2-3 toddlers or babies to a cot and no proper refrigeration. Most of the orphans have disabilities (physical or mental) and have a heightened susceptibility to common diseases and illnesses. It is saddening to see such unavoidable low standard of living in Africa, but there are ways in which we can help break the perpetual cycle of poverty.  

Our school has been actively involved in fundraising activities for this orphanage, and is fortunate to be able to send comparatively large sums of money to support these orphans and their carers. However, as only first-hand experience can teach, I learned that time spent is just as great, if not a greater gift, as money spent. The proof that I experienced of this was simply the heart-warming smile of an African orphan called Deo. 

Obviously, not everyone is able to visit an African orphanage directly, but one’s spirit of willingness can go out in the form of donations or by raising awareness of such poor conditions. To be an active member of our world today can only shape your character for good. There are almost innumerable orphanages in Africa that all desperately need help, so it is up to those who can help (anyone and everyone) to aid them in their struggle to expand and grow - to help children like Deo. 

My challenge to you is this:

Think about the unnecessary things that your money is spent on. Contrast this against your giving for the benefit of others. What are you really doing to help?

Posted for Stefan (nicknamed ‘Steerfahn’ during the trip)