Serving the World

I want to thank all of you- over 40 different people and families - who contributed so generously toward Kope Café. This project, more of an experiment as the first non-profit café of its kind, has been successful because, from day one, it started with selflessness. From Acholi artists who sacrificed countless hours of decorating, to the manager, Judith, who left London to work for free, laughing throughout the crazy opening months. The cafe is a work of love, and you all have continued this spirit of generosity.

Returning to Uganda and Kope Café was bittersweet. It is surreal being back in Gulu, where nothing has changed. The same people are posted on the same corners, the same women carry the same jugs of water from the well, the same little kids smile and wave on the sides of the dusty road. The scene is not nearly as lively or relaxing as the comforts of home this Christmas break. In fact, it is a bit difficult to adjust back, but I know that I am in the right place. After all, this is the place that has challenged me and stretched me creatively and personally beyond what I thought capable; I could not be here, or have the strength without the support of each of you. Nelson Mandela said, “"Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness, that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, and fabulous? Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small doesn't serve the world.” You have all played huge in my world, and now it is my turn to extend that generosity. Thank you for your support.

Hosting a meeting the second day I arrived back in Uganda, I sat inside Kope Café, now 3 months old, and looked around the room of bright characters. My heart quivered just knowing the effort they have each made to enable the café to function smoothly. My appreciation turned to invigoration as I announced that we now have the funds from my friends in America to fulfill many of their requests for improvement. There is a lot of work that needs to be done to make this café fully sustainable, well-attended and consistent. Construction on an outside patio starts today, and my hope is that within a couple of weeks we will double our seating capacity. The kitchen will receive proper attention, and the Chef will no longer have to bend down to cut fruit salads on a bench borrowed from HEALS.

In my dreams of September, I eat one last serving of chicken curry, wash my plate, and walk out the front door of a thriving café. My exit takes me through a lush outdoor patio from where I look back at the sign one last time, knowing that the cafe is serving its role as a community hub of creativity and culture. Turning down the street to head home I meet several kids from HEALS and take comfort in knowing that this community-run organization will never have to worry about finding 3 dollars to send a child to elementary school. And, as I return home to you all, the stories of success I bring will confirm that you were a part of this dream and that together, we truly served the world.