She was frail and small, sitting quietly in the corner of the cookhouse. She was dressed in rags, wore no shoes and her hands were covered in dirt up to her elbows. She had begged for a job on the Kibarita farm 4 weeks previous. Her name was Mary and she was 22 years old. She was the seventh born and sadly lost her Mother at the age of one. When her father re-married, Mary was forced to drop out of school in grade 5 due to the severe mistreatment at the hands of the stepmother. In an attempt to escape the torture at home, Mary married at the tender age of 17. She bore two children and again suffered with daily beatings from her alcoholic husband.
When I heard about her life story and the hardships she had endured, I knew my prayers had been answered. The mission trip to Kenya was becoming more meaningful each day and I thanked the Lord for bringing Mary into my life. I will never forget the emotion and how relieved we both felt when I explained how her story saddened us and that we were in a position to help her.
During the next 6 days, the tiny rural area of Mukeu had everybody scrambling. A small iron sheet home approximately 15′ x 9′ was built, along with a small cook- house, funded by Compassion Works International. I was able to purchase Mary a new bed, mattress and basic household essentials to provide a comfortable start for her and her two small children. In addition, she was presented with ample groceries, toiletries and 2 months supplies of Pampers for her small boy. Little Paul was suffering from a rash, only diapered in a washcloth and sheet of black plastic. I cannot find the words to express how this experience touched all of us involved. Not only did we provide a secure and safe home for a family who desperately needed it, we without a doubt grew to understand how very little it takes to make such a difference. I could see huge changes in Mary’s demeanor and her children’s spirits lifting while we erected her simple home. At times, I couldn’t believe this was happening so fast. Plans ran smoothly and it seemed like a miracle was unfolding before us.
On day 6, as Mary proudly served us tea from her new home, my son and I presented her and the extended family with items of new clothing, toiletries and misc. items. The joy on their faces will live long in my memory. They were overwhelmed with emotion and gratitude. And to me, it was so little to contribute. We all struggled for words when it was time to say goodbye. Mary was thrilled. I was elated, once again recognizing that we are here on God’s Green Earth with a purpose. To give generously, care deeply and help one another, selflessly. My heart is still overflowing with emotion when I reflect back on this past month. To set Mary’s household up with furniture, personal items and groceries was less than $300 Canadian dollars. The cost of her home was just a little over $1000. As long as I’m alive, Mary and her two beautiful children will be a part of my life. I will continue to support Mary financially every month for less than $25 Canadian dollars. This will enable her to sustain a comfortable lifestyle, while still being able to earn income on the farm. I strongly recommend others to search deep in their hearts and make a commitment to change other’s lives. One small person at a time.
Denise Dore,
Langley, B.C.
May 2008
