Ga’Kaiya Anderson’s Trip Home

My trip to Uganda was an eye-opening experience. I connected with myself, the people, and God in ways I never could have imagined.

When we first landed in Uganda, I was excited yet nervous. The journey ahead of me seemed scary. Was I ready to be so far away from my comfort zone? Could I make a positive impact on the people here? With all these questions racing through my mind on the ride to the village, I looked around and calmed down. I threw all my doubts out the window when I saw the people, my people. They were eating, laughing, shopping, and dancing. This was when I knew I was truly at home. I was surrounded by people who looked like me. I was the majority. I was back to my roots.

When I was in the village helping with constructing the church I was met with open arms. I had only known the people in the village for a few minutes, and I had already felt surrounded by family. There was a boy about my age whom I connected with more than anyone else. When I first arrived at the village, I sneezed. Every time I saw him after that; he imitated my sneeze. I nicknamed him “Achoo.” Even though he couldn’t speak any English, his “achoos” brought me joy. I also connected with a boy named James. He was the only person I saw in Uganda with glasses, and he was precious. His skin was like melted chocolate, soft and brown. My favorite part of my mission trip was Sunday when we attended church. It felt good to see the church which we worked hard on completed. The service was more than learning about the word of God; it was celebrating His goodness and mercy. I had never seen so many people engaged in worship. Everyone was dancing and singing anywhere from the age of 3-90.

My mission trip to Uganda was a dream. I was at my roots. The people, food, music, and church gave me an experience that I will never forget. God has shown them that materialistic items mean nothing when they are surrounded by those they love and God. Ever since my journey to Uganda, I have applied this philosophy. I can’t wait until I go back to my home in Uganda.