Reflecting on the Trip

It’s now three weeks since I returned home from Ethiopia and have been trying to find the right moment to sum up my feelings about the trip. It’s very difficult coming to terms with not being in Mekelle. The experience was so powerful that typed words didn’t seem to be able to convey my experience.

I have very quickly thanked people and groups who have assisted me with this experience, but there are two groups that deserve a special mention.

Daughters of Charity
This was my first experience of living and working within a Religious Community. The Sisters were so full of fun, energy, spiritually inspirational, thoughtful and sensitive. They put into practice their faith and did not preach. To see the way the Sisters are respected by the children is amazing. The work they carry out is making huge improvements for the lives of so many children, young adults and elderly people. I will be eternally in their debt for the love and friendship they gave me.

When it comes to material possessions, nearly every child or young adult on the programme had very little. However, in terms of love, appreciation, kindness towards their friends, honesty and respect, they were rich beyond imagination. The words of wisdom that they often come up with really make you sit up and examine your conscience about the priorities in life. Having been privileged to share some of their personal family experiences, you understand that while food, clothing and shelter are important, the ingredient often missing is someone who has the time to talk to them on a one-to-one basis.

The Future?
Although Ethiopia is one of the poorest countries in the world, the potential for improvement is so encouraging. The local people are so positive, eager to learn and so thoughtful for those in most need. I am very confident that the future for Ethiopia is very positive.

I am planning to use the experience by offering to attend group meetings of local churches, schools and any other small groups of people who would be interested. Through my work as a SCIAF Schools Volunteer, I will be able to relate from a first hand point of view the work being carried out on a specific project supported by SCIAF.

I intend to return to Mekelle to see how the young people are progressing and to take part in the ongoing development of the many friends I made in Mekelle, Ethiopia.

Thanks to everyone who has supported me on this experience of a lifetime.

Tommy Dobbin
24 September 2007.