Pandemic

I feel like I’m living in a movie. I’ve been casted as the main role, but no one ever gave me the script. Everyone else knows their lines, but here I am improving to the best of my ability.

The corona virus (COVID-19) is sweeping the world. I sat at home one evening, watching emails flood into my HPS email about the state wide issue to close schools and churches. I was blown away. Then I received similar texts about stores and restaurants closing. In Uganda, we were going about our business as normal. It was Wednesday evening when President Museveni was scheduled to address the pandemic to the country. I was eager to listen, as I had been seeing everything in the US close. 

This is not the first time that Uganda has been threatened with a pandemic disease (i.e. Ebola, Cholera, etc.). President Museveni addressed the country on Wednesday, March 18th. He issued that all schools and churches be closed down effective on Friday March 20th. He limited public transportation and issued mandatory hand washing stations outside of every store/public venue. The price of hand sanitizer has gone up outrageously – but we’re finding alternative ways to stay clean. Due to life in Uganda being so community-focused, it is hard to issue quarantine. We are doing our best to self-quarantine as a family. 

Now, as of March 23rd, Museveni has issued a close of all country boarders. There will be no traveling allowed by water, road, or air – they have issued the airport to be shut down as well. We are completely isolated. Have I considered flying back to Michigan? Yes – but given the history of this country and the increased threats from traveling, I decided it was best for me to stay around. Also, I know the Lord brought me here for a reason so I’m going to trust in HIM through it all.

Faith is being sure of what you hope for and certain of what you do not see.

Hebrews 11:1

I have responsibility to continue overseeing this house. I know they can manage without me, but this is where I am supposed to be. We’re doing what we can to continue through each day with as much ease as possible. We’re taking turns doing chores, we’re cleaning up the compound, playing games, dancing to music, and sharing a lot of laughs. 

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I want you all to know that I am feeling hopeful through all of this. It is a little nerve-wracking being responsible for so many bodies through such a pandemic, but I know the Lord is looking over us. I have faith in our president here, and in the Ugandan people. Most importantly I have faith in the Lord. He works in mysterious ways, so this will not shake me. The boys and I are all healthy, and we’re doing well. Thankfully we have a home big enough for all of us, with even enough areas throughout the compound to go if you need some quiet time. We’re making the best of each and every day.

I think it’s a beautiful mess. Through all the terror and unknown, people are really coming together to help each other out as best we can. I pray that when this is all over, we remain with this sense of/desire for community.

If you are in a place to give financially, The Street Child Project could really use your help! With this unexpected quarantine, it has put upon us a lot of unexpected expenses. We have a lot more mouths to feed (nearly 18-25 each day), we even had to buy more beds to accommodate. After this month, we will also be preparing to send the boys back to start their second term. We are always grateful for any form of support, and it’s because of you that we can keep going! Be sure to take a look at my Prayer Request page. Please feel free to send me any questions you might have!

Wishing you all safety and health during this confusing time.

grace + peace,

Kendall Rose