Two PCR (negative) tests and one rapid (negative) test literally at the last second, due to a freshly issued mandate by Delta Airlines, I am finally headed east to my beloved Watoto World Center.
To say that the last ten months have been a challenge is a galactic understatement. Then again, I say to myself: get in line. My challenges are no greater than anyone else’s. The reward at the other end is going to be worth every second of pain. I am nearly beside myself with the excitement and pure joy of landing back on African soil. When I think of being reunited with the children again, the tears start to flow. I have missed them so much it hurts.
Much has transpired. Again, another massive understatement. Over the next 12 days, I will make every attempt to share with you dear readers, the highs and the lows. The end of the story is: we are winning. This is a story about love, passion, perseverance, corruption, predators, willfulness, patience, betrayal, determination, chutzpah, setbacks, victories, justice, injustice, cunning, staying the course, and a dog with a bone. Yours truly is the dog. And my bone remains firmly clenched in my jaw.
To my husband Peter: your support is pure gold. You have lived this story ad nauseam, to the point of exhaustion I’m sure. I have pretty much remained on East African Time since March 17. The glow of the computer or phone at 2:30 - 3:00am most mornings never seemed to phase you. If it did, you stayed silent. Emma, you have been a rock star. Our months of walking, talking, more walking and venting are a God-send. We seemed to get our groove back in sync : you found a new job during this pandemic just as I got over the hump. To my Board of Directors, your support together and individually, has been a shot of adrenaline. Your faith in me and the wisdom you impart continue to humble me. To my extended family and friends, each of you has a special place in my heart. To all of my wonderful donors, you kept me going. Watoto World Center could not exist without any of you.
From somewhere over the Atlantic Ocean, I'm on my way, to the continent that draws me in like a magnet.
Tuoanane baadaye, see you shortly.
Simmie and Njeri
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