Day 6 – Bittersweet Goodbyes and New Beginnings

Phew—this update is coming to you a little later than planned! I usually write these at the end of the day from bed… and this is the first time I’ve actually made it to bed in two days. I’ve heard from so many of you that you look forward to these updates each day, and I’m sorry for the delay. Thank you for following along with us on this journey. I’m so grateful you’re reading, sharing, and walking with us in spirit. While I may not be posting daily from here on out, I hope you’ll continue to tune in for updates, inspiring stories, and glimpses of the initiatives transforming lives here in Rwanda.

​A Final Morning of Planning

Today marked our final day in Rwanda, and saying goodbye was no easy task. Over the past week, our bonds with the people of Rugarika have deepened beyond words. Their love, generosity, and unwavering determination to create a better future have left an imprint on our hearts that will last a lifetime.

We began the morning early with Brigitte and Paterne, working together to create a comprehensive action plan and wish list to present to the American and Rwandan Board of Directors. These discussions were fueled by the inspiration we draw daily from the people we serve—and by our determination to help them achieve their goals.
​
One exciting opportunity we explored was a hospitality training program offered right at our hotel. Graduates receive a certificate that can help them secure employment in hotels, restaurants, and tourism businesses throughout Rwanda. We met the program leader and even watched a class in action. We believe this could be a promising option for our secondary school graduates who are not pursuing university but still want strong career prospects.

​A Surprise Second Meeting

Our meeting stretched until lunchtime, so we took a break to eat. Soon after, Brigitte and Paterne asked for a second meeting—this time with a surprise. They presented us with flowers and candles from Shari’s celebration of life to be used in her upcoming service next month, as well as beautiful hand-painted artwork. These gifts were deeply touching, a testament to the love and respect they hold for Shari’s legacy.

​Packing with Love

Before packing my bags, I invited Brigitte to my room to try on some of my clothes. Watching her choose pieces and seeing how radiant she looked in them was pure joy. Alan did the same for Paterne. Even with fewer items in my suitcase afterward, it was still large enough that the Kigali airport required me to check it—only for it to be lost somewhere between Rwanda and Seattle. Check out how beautiful Brigitte looks in her new outfit!

​Final Stops and Fond Farewells

We made a couple of stops at shops so Brigitte could buy shoes for our family members as another thoughtful parting gift. The traffic was intense—so much so that I recorded a short video to capture the endless near-misses that somehow rarely became accidents.

After a quick dinner, we headed to the airport. There, under the fluorescent lights and amid the sounds of rolling suitcases, we exchanged hugs, tears, and promises to return. 

Twenty-four hours later, I arrived in Seattle to the warmest welcome—Alan’s son and grandchildren with a “Welcome Home” sign, my mom and her husband, and my daughters wrapping me in hugs.

The Journey Continues​

​While we may have left Rwanda physically, our hearts remain firmly rooted there. We return to the U.S. more determined than ever to help the people of Rugarika achieve the sustainable change they need to lift themselves out of extreme poverty. This trip may have ended, but our shared journey is far from over—and we can’t wait to see where faith, hope, and partnership will take us next.