Snapshot of a Memory #3
Meet Florence. She lives in Northern Uganda. I was introduced to her by Billie who was wanting a picture with Florence and another lovely young lady. After her picture, I had to get in on the action.
Before I sat down for my picture, I asked the Ugandan girls if they would be willing to help me up once I sat down. (If you know me for any length of time, you know that I am a clutz - I sprained my ankle pretty bad two days prior to this)
Once back on my feet after the photo op, Florence noticed that I was having a hard time walking and asked if she could help me. Before I had time to respond, she placed my arm over hers so my elbow was in the cradle of hers. Holding hands, she lightened my burden and filled my heart.
As we walked along, she told me of her life. Her brother is the one in the Compassion project. (Note to reader: only one child per family can enter the sponsorship program) She is the oldest of four living with her father. Her mom died of AIDS years earlier. Florence has assumed much of the house chores and taking care of her younger siblings.
Her life has pretty much been laid out for her. She is 15 years old with an 8th Grade education. Since going to school is so expensive in Uganda, she will more than likely not return. Her only hope is in her little brother who is in the Compassion program.
Whereever we went, Florence would not leave my side. She continually asked how I was doing. On one of our walks, I told her I would pray for her. She literally stopped in her tracks. She looked at me with complete surprise and asked, "You'll pray for me?" I believe she found it difficult to imagine someone(especially from another country) caring enough about her to keep her in their prayers. I told her that I would remember her every day for the rest of my life. And you know what - I WILL!
Sometimes HOPE comes in the form of small gestures or words we speak to one another. My hope is that through our time together, Florence has a little more hope. Her impact on me was immense. Mother Teresa said it best, " There are no great things, only small things with great love." I so appreciate Florence's love in action she showed to me that day.
If you have a minute, say a little prayer for this remarkable young lady.
To learn more about Compassion, just follow the link.
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