Today’s guest post is from Mary Kate Richardson, of NewSpring Church in South Carolina. She tells us of the blessing of meeting her sponsored child, Saretu, during a 410 Bridge service trip in the community of Ereri, Kenya. Enjoy Mary Kate’s story…
I knew when I went to Kenya I was going to be able to meet my sponsor child, Saretu. I knew it would amazing, but I didn’t realize how amazing it would be. I will never forget the moment I met her. I had just finished praying for some people in the medical clinic and Jack Silange came and got me. He walked me outside and there she was. Saretu and I started walking and talking until we found a place to sit. We just talked and talked. She told me “I’ve seen your pictures and letters.” That right there was enough. In that moment those simple words meant so much. I knew she was getting my stuff but to be able to actually hear her tell me that myself was incredible.
The days I got to spend with Saretu were so special. She took me to class three to meet her teacher. Her teacher went on and on about how great of a student Saretu was. In that moment I kind of felt like a proud mother. That sounds crazy because obviously she’ s not my child, but it just made me so happy to see her doing so well. While I was there I also was able to meet her family. Wow, that was such a blessing. Her mother was so sweet and caring and language was not even a barrier. And her little 2 year old sister was the cutest thing ever.
I was dreading the day I had to leave Saretu but the day finally came. She came up to me crying saying “don’t leave Mary Kate.” Seeing her standing there hugging me and crying I lost it. I started crying too. So, we stood there crying and hugging together for a solid five minutes, then it was time for me to depart. I was so sad to leave sweet Saretu but I can not wait to see her again!
Mary Kate and Saretu in Ereri, Kenya
Visiting your sponsored child is truly the experience of a lifetime! If you’d like to be a part of this kind of life-change, click here to learn more about our sponsorship program and see how you may one day have an opportunity like this!