Before I return to my somewhat studious nature, I wanted to give a quick update on the cattle situation described in my previous post. After receiving all of the generous contributions from our families, we withdrew the for Lalahe early this week and he headed out of town to the cattle market where he was able to purchase four cows— three females and one bull! Although this was fewer than we anticipated, the cows were recently given medicine and the females are healthy and pregnant! Within six months the herd will be almost twice the size that it is now. It took Lalahe two days to herd the cattle back to his village, but fortunately Hannah lent him her camera, so we got pictures from the journey! He has expressed over and over how thankful he and his family are for everyone’s help in this project.
As if that isn’t enough excitement for one post, another project that Lalahe has pursued is opening a school in his village. Oftentimes Maasai children don’t have access to education because of a variety of reasons ranging from their responsibilities to walk to the cattle all day to a cost barrier. Lalahe took the initiative to start his own school for the children in his village, taught by Maasai women under the shade of a tree. He visited several bomas encouraging the parents to send their children to school and within two weeks it was in full progress with several students attending on a daily basis! We are currently in the process of finding a blackboard and school supplies for the kids.
With great ideas, some hard work, patience, prayer, and a little help from home, so much has already been accomplished. We (Lalahe included) are extremely grateful!
Lalahe perusin' the goods at the cattle market.
Three of the cattle! Apparently they kept wandered off a lot, making it difficult to photograph all four...
