Extraordinary Ordinary
Moments:What Ten
Weeks Volunteering in
Kenya Taught Me
Cailin Elphick
S
ome of the best things in life evolve when we are miles outside of our
comfort zones. I’ve begun to understand my innate need to push myself
constantly to the edge and take giant leaps of faith.
I’ve been back on American soil for just over four months after
volunteering for 10 weeks in Etora, Kenya. I returned with tan lines, bruises,
new scars, new perspective, gratitude, a newfound appreciation for hot water,
and an expanded heart.
Life in Kenya is so different from life here in America. From their
interpretation of time to the color of the dirt, Kenya has a different pulse. I
miss bucket showers, eating cooked bananas, dancing to music that gets into
your bones, teaching the kids yoga and art, and constantly getting caught in
the rain.
I spent enough time there to actually feel settled, as if I lived there. And
spending time with the kids at the Sacred Care Orphanage was one of the
most enriching experiences I have ever had. These kids have each overcome
hell, being found in toilets, abandoned as babies, or abused. They have lived
heartache, and yet their smiles are entirely genuine and full of life.
They lead vigorous, joyful and content lives, and are incredibly well cared
for by the staff at the orphanage. They taught me that hearts are built to be
broken, to know the dark in order to fill it with happiness. Each person I met
in Kenya further proved how true that is.
I left in August with my friend Kira Kerr, a backpack full of belongings,
and a list of tasks to do for Helping Children in Crisis (HCIC) while I was
there. I was equally excited and terrified for what the next few months would
hold.
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