May 11, 2012
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What do you say?
It was thirteen and a half months ago when we boarded a plain and headed to Africa, specifically Uganda, with the plan of leading work teams for construction. That was our main goal. Second was the construction consulting and strategy planning for the many schools we would interact with. Now, so much time after, we still have not completed our primary goal, receive a team. Thankfully, we have not been content with sitting and waiting, which if you have read a single blog post before this you would know that.
But its funny... Liz and I are what I would call "social butterflies." Well Liz is the butterfly, I am the dumb moth circling the light. But regardless, we really enjoy talking to those we interact with. So lately, I have found it strange when asked "What do you do here?" Because you cannot be white and be in Uganda without a specific plan. So it is the topic of conversation at first meeting. Taking into consideration the previous topic... what do we say?
Now we are trying to figure out what's the next step. We haven't met the first/primary goal that we (?) set. We have interacted with so many schools but have not really accomplished much building. On the other hand, a path was made for us as soon as we touched ground in Uganda. Not only do we visit schools and talk about what could be built, but we encourage and unveil how the Lord has gifted these places to do things on their own, without western aid. We interact with our neighbors encouraging them to see the saving grace of Christ. We volunteer/serve wherever we are lead... we assist in medical care for colleagues, manage the finances for Grassroots Empowerment Opportunities and their fleet of vehicles (two really, but fleet sounds cooler!), volunteer at HIV/AIDS events, and random other things where we are able. Lately, we have been involved in the start-up of an orphan village. One that will have schools and orphan homes. We have been challenged with this and are hopeful to be of some assistance. I even chauffeur for visitors! It is a good way to save time having to meet and discuss at some random location. Instead, we meet while getting from point A to point B. Its actually quite effective! And lastly, something we have been preparing for for some time, we will be block manufacturers. We will turn an infant WWCS National Team into a group that is becoming able to support itself. Being able to assist other schools without asking for western aid.
So when we do figure things out, regarding our future, can we say this mission was a success? Can we convince people that we need to continue serving without having met the primary goals we had? Its really tough... so when people ask "When are you coming home?" What do you say?
At this point, we are confident that the Holy Spirit will lead us where He wants. God gave us free will, but he also incorporates our decisions into His plan. So that is really comforting to think that we can't screw things up either way! I know we are praying and dialoguing about this constantly. It is the topic most commonly discussed when talking alone. I mean it was clear as day when we realized we needed to serve "away from home." Right now, that clarity is just not as obvious.
On a side note, I am a bit excited. I have been assigned the task of planning a trip to South Africa. There I will be trained on the operation and knowledge of the block machine gifted to our ministry. I will be traveling with a colleague and we will be staying for two weeks. We will be learning not only the operation, but also the all important information about the characteristics of soils and composition that will make superior blocks. In addition, they will also teach advanced building techniques that will assist in making more efficient and effective structures. And for those of you who do not know, South Africa is developed! There are paved roads, fast food, and seafood (its on the coast)! So I am pretty excited all around. Poor Lizzy, the travel junky, is a bit jealous. Sorry babe
Anyway, that is whats up right now. Its been too long, sorry for not being better at keeping you up to date.
Chad Neeley
Volunteer Construction Coordinator/Chauffeur/Accountant/Counselor - Worldwide Christian Schools USA/Uganda
