Pencils With Vision
Written by Sr. Louise Howe, Pencils with Vision, a Program Sponsored by the Community of the Crucified One
My journey to Kenya changed me profoundly, and I am inspired to share the story of a nation with strength and resilience woven into its daily life. Through Pencils With Vision, a program established by the Community of the Crucified One over 25 years ago, our commitment has been to help educate the children of Kenya. This program embodies our dedication to bringing hope and opportunity to Kenyan communities, and the people of Kenya have shown us, in return, their remarkable strength and spirit.
In Kenya, strength is visible in every corner of daily life—physical resilience, moral resolve, spiritual depth, and the enduring will to overcome challenges. I saw people rising early, long before dawn, to work and walking vast distances to reach their destinations. This resilience brought to mind
Psalm 121:1-2
“I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills,
From where comes my help.
My help comes from the Lord,
Which made heaven and earth.”
This verse mirrors the spirit of Kenya—a strength deeply rooted in resilience, hard work, and, most importantly, a profound faith in God.
Unity Amid Diversity
Kenya’s strength also lies in its unity amid diversity. The country is home to many ethnic groups, yet there is a shared pride and national unity. Despite facing occasional challenges, Kenyans live by the principle of “harambee,”a Swahili word meaning “pulling together.” This commitment to unity and progress is a testament to their resolve and ability to overcome adversity together.
Resourcefulness and Economic Advancement
Kenyans are innovative and resourceful, constantly finding ways to improve their economic conditions. In rural areas, people develop practical income strategies through small-scale farming, informal labor, and social networks. I observed local vendors selling fresh produce, household items, and more, showing the resilience of a people who are determined to sustain themselves and their families.
Education: A Path to Progress
One of the most inspiring aspects of Kenyan society is its commitment to education, which is deeply valued and prioritized. Families make significant sacrifices to ensure their children receive a quality education, and through Pencils of Promise, the Community of the Crucified One is dedicated to supporting this vital pursuit. I encountered students walking long distances, sometimes in challenging weather, just to attend school. One young girl shared with me, “It is a long walk to school,” but her determination was unwavering. The commitment of Kenyan families to education, despite hardships, reflects their hope for a brighter future for their children.
Close-Knit Communities and Faith
In rural areas, communities are tightly knit, supporting one another in countless ways. This unity strengthens resilience and offers mutual support, especially in times of need. The Christian faith is also a profound source of strength, providing a foundation of hope and stability. Churches serve as vital centers for spiritual, emotional, and practical support, helping individuals and families find purpose and strength in their journey.
Observations of Daily Life in Kenya
During my visit, I observed countless scenes that embody the strength of the Kenyan people:
- Perseverance through hardship: Rain or shine, people continue their day, selling goods and traveling to their destinations.
- Harmony with nature: Animals such as sheep, goats, cows, and donkeys share grazing spaces, reflecting a deep connection to the land.
- Family and tradition: Even on cold, rainy Sundays, families walk together, dressed in their best clothes, heading to church.
- Elderly resilience: Elderly individuals carry heavy loads, displaying a lifetime of strength.
- Youthful determination: Children walk to school in their uniforms, regardless of the distance.
- Hard work and adaptability: Women work tirelessly in gardens, often with minimal equipment, and maize dries on the roadside, showing Kenya’s agricultural ingenuity.
Through Pencils With Vision and the ongoing support of the Community of the Crucified One, we are honored to stand alongside these remarkable people, helping provide education and hope for Kenya’s future. Kenya’s strength is rooted in its faith, hard work, unity, and an unbreakable spirit—a strength that has left an indelible mark on me. I hope this article honors the resilience of the Kenyan people, who teach us that true strength is found not only in physical endurance but in faith, unity, and the will to keep moving forward.
If you would like to learn more about Pencils of Promise follow this Link! PENCILS WITH VISION