Year 27: A Journey to Uganda and the Gift of Joy
As I reflect on my 27th year, I remember a birthday spent in the heart of Uganda—where love, generosity, and true joy illuminated my spirit. What I thought would be a simple trip turned into a divine encounter with peace beyond understanding.
As I begin my 28th year, I find myself reflecting on the lessons and experiences of year 27. This time last year, I was in the village of Masaka, Uganda. My soul and spirit were longing for something deeper, leaving me feeling restless and anxious. Before embarking on my trip to the motherland, I had been fasting, and during that time, my body fell ill. I typically fast at the beginning of each year, but this time felt different. It was harder. I struggled to connect with God, to follow the food restrictions, to focus—I was simply struggling overall. At the time, I didn’t understand, but looking back now, I recognize that I was experiencing spiritual warfare.
As I prepared for my trip to Uganda, I remember praying for God to meet me there, to experience Him, to grant me the sense of peace I had been longing for. And of course, He exceeded my expectations. From the moment I arrived in Uganda, I felt an overwhelming sense of peace, love, and gratitude. The family that owns the orphanage welcomed me with open arms, and the children were so loving, generous, kind, and full of joy. In a country facing economic hardships, they seemed to have discovered the true meaning of life—loving God, their community, and each other. It was an indescribable feeling.
There was a lightness in my spirit I hadn’t experienced in a long time. I wasn’t concerned with the vanities that so easily consume us, I was simply grateful to be present, to be alive, and to be in the moment.
On my actual birthday, I woke up and went to a cornfield to help harvest what they call maize. Acres and acres of land stretched before me, and as I worked, I saw firsthand the dedication and joy the people had in their labor. After about two hours, I was exhausted (lol), but they kept going, still full of energy and generosity. I was inspired. Later that evening, they threw me one of the best parties I’ve had in years. We played games, drank sodas, ate cake, and danced for what felt like hours. My soul felt light. I have videos, but I’ll spare you my embarrassing dance moves—for now (lol). It was in those moments that I was reminded of what truly matters.
True joy and peace come from God. Contentment comes from above. It costs nothing to be generous, to give joy, and to love. The love of God transcends cultures and continents. Even now, we still keep in touch and pray for each other, and I look forward to returning.
While this birthday may not be as extravagant, I know God has great plans for this year, and I can’t wait to take you all along for the journey.
