The Angels of Nation Life
This week’s reflection
What laws, customs and cultures go into the life of a nation and into your own as well?
Share your thoughts below — and read what others are saying.
This week’s reflection
What laws, customs and cultures go into the life of a nation and into your own as well?
Share your thoughts below — and read what others are saying.
This category has to do with the question of what it is to be a nation. The subjects that come up in this context naturally have to do with the cultural, historical, and governmental aspects of nation life. The first question the children were asked to reflect on was sent on July 29, 2023.
Isa and Tonny were asked to talk to the kids about leadership and what kinds of qualities make leaders good. In meditation and prayer, they were asked to reflect on what they would want to do if they were in charge of a group or even a whole country? What would they want to do to make life better for all the people that they were leading. These were a few of the answers:
I would like to pray for people who lead me to make sure they are all successful in life.🙏🙏🙏
I would like to always make them smile in anyway I can when I am with them.😊
I would like to respect them.❤️
Nakato said that if she was leading some people she would encourage them to continue with what they were doing. Never to give up on life. And she would encourage them to always put their trust and not to give up on God if she was leading a Christian team or group.✝️
A map of Africa gets safely to the Vine of Hope.
And then of all the world’s nations and flags:
Then to the Mushunga Community Project’s Victorious School:
At Tonny’s Victorious School:
The second question, the kids were asked on October 24, ‘23, had to do with their own country, Uganda. When thinking about what a nation is, it made sense for them to focus on their own nation first. So we started with their country’s laws—which brought up the whole concept of law—a rule that’s applied to each person and is good for all.🙏
The question the kids were asked to reflect on was this: What laws are good for your country—good for you and for others, too?
These were the answers from the Vine of Hope:
Mulondo said it would be a right to life.💏
Lubale said that reproduction rights are good.👫
Luwazo said self defense.🦾
Waiswa said religious freedom.☮️
Nangobi Mariam she that it should be about strengthening family bonds.👨👨👦
Nakato said that it should be pursuit of happiness.😊
Nambi said that it should be for human dignity.☝🏽
Mwogezi said that it should be for justice and fairness.🫱🏼🫲🏻
Mbweila said that the principles of compassion and kindness were most important.💚
Kids in class at the Vine of Hope’s first classroom in the autumn of 2023:
And these were the answers from the children at the Mushunga Community Project’s Victorious School for the question above on October 24th:
1. Annitah said that a person should not hit or hurt others.😇
2. Vincent said that everyone should be kind and respect each other.🙏
3. Ashiram said that sharing is good, so we should share our toys and things.🧸
4. Albert said that no stealing or taking things that don’t belong to us.🤳🏽
5. Aijuka said that We should always tell the truth and not lie.🫄🏾
6. Ajuna said that no bullying or being mean to others.🙇🏽♂️
7. Ameria said that we should listen to our parents and teachers.👨👧
8. Caroline said that no throwing trash on the ground. We should keep our environment clean.🪣
9. Grace said that always say “please” and “thank you” to show good manners.👨🏻❤️💋👨🏿
10. Tobias said that we should not run or play in dangerous places.❌
11. Gift said that we should take care of animals and not hurt them.😽
12. Peace said that no yelling or shouting at others.🥵
13. Princess said that everyone should have access to healthcare when they’re sick.🤕
14. Edward said that we should not discriminate based on race, gender, or religion.☮️
15. Ritah said that we should help those in need and be kind to others.❣️
16. Anthony said that we should not litter or pollute the environment.🍀
17. Peter said that everyone should have the right to practice their own religion or beliefs.❤️
Rachel studying at the Victorious School in October 2023:
On January 23, 2024, the kids were asked to reflect about what they felt was the most beautiful thing in their country. These were the answers from the Vine Of Hope:
1. Nangobi said what she finds mostly beautiful in Uganda is the nature.🦋
2. Nabitaka what i found beautiful in Uganda are the falls.💦
3. Nambi what I finds mostly in Uganda are the fresh fruits 😋.
4. Mwogezi said that what he finds mostly beautiful in Uganda are the gorillas.🦍
5. Nakato what I finds mostly beautiful in Uganda are the beautiful plants.🌿
6. Nangobi what I finds mostly beautiful in Uganda is food.🍑
7. Nakibuka said what she finds mostly beautiful in Uganda is the unity of people.👬
8. Nakayima said what I finds mostly beautiful in Uganda is the weather.🌞
9. Mulondo said what he finds mostly beautiful in Uganda are the wild animals.🦒
10. Lubale said what he finds most beautiful in Uganda are the water bodies.💦
11. Luwazo what he finds mostly beautiful in Uganda the morning raise of the sun 🌞.
12. Waiswa said what he finds mostly beautiful in Uganda are the monkeys 🐒.
13. Mbweila most what I find out mostly beautiful in Uganda is the local Food.🍑
14. Twaha what he finds mostly beautiful in Uganda is the cool breeze 😎 that makes hot days feel better.
15. Nkugwa what he finds mostly beautiful in Uganda are the flying birds.
16. Nbone what he finds mostly beautiful in Uganda is the smile of the people most especially the mothers of the nature.😇
The kids at the Vine of Hope
And the kids at Mushunga felt these were the most beautiful in their country: 🇺🇬
1. Annitah said that what she finds mostly beautiful in Uganda are colorful butterflies fluttering around the gardens.🦋
2. Vincent said that what he finds mostly beautiful in Uganda are the tall giraffes roaming freely in the national parks.🦒
3. Gift said that what she finds mostly beautiful in Uganda is the the sound of joyful laughter echoing through the villages.😄
4. Peace said that what she finds mostly beautiful in Uganda are the vibrant markets filled with fruits, vegetables, and crafts.🍑
5. Peter said that what he finds most beautiful in Uganda are the sparkling stars in the clear night sky.⭐️
6. Daniel said that what he finds mostly beautiful in Uganda is the the delicious smell of roasted maize on the streets.🌽
7. Rosette said that what she finds most beautiful in Uganda are the friendly smiles of people she meets along the way.😊
8. Godwin said that what he finds most beautiful in Uganda is the rhythmic beats of traditional music and dancing.🎼
9. Rachael said that what she finds most beautiful in Uganda are the stunning waterfalls cascading down the mountains.💦
10. Aijuka said that what he finds most beautiful in Uganda are the playful monkeys swinging from tree to tree.🐵
11. Ritah said that what she finds most beautiful in Uganda is the warm sunshine that makes everything glow.🌞
12. Dorcas said that what she finds most beautiful in Uganda are the colorful fabrics and patterns of traditional clothing.👘
13. Tobias said that what he finds most beautiful in Uganda is the the delicious taste of juicy tropical fruits.🥭
14. Vanessa said that what she finds most beautiful in Uganda is the gentle breeze that brings relief on a hot day.🌬️
15. Hakim said that what he finds most beautiful in Uganda is the breathtaking view of the Nile River flowing gracefully.💦
16. Grace said that what she finds most beautiful in Uganda is the sweet scent of flowers blooming in gardens.🌸
17. Ameria said that what she finds most beautiful in Uganda is the excitement of spotting different bird species in the wild.🦓
18. Albert said that what he finds most beautiful in Uganda is the peacefulness of sitting by a serene lake.🩵
19. Ignitius said that what he finds most beautiful in Uganda are the fascinating stories and legends passed down through generations.📚
20. Phielomon said that what he finds most beautiful in Uganda is the feeling of unity and love shared by the people of Uganda.🫂
Visiting with a friend from Andalucía, Spain, at the Mushunga Community Project in January, 2024.
The kids from the Savannah Rose Rescue Home found these things to be the most beautiful in their home country:
1. Flowrence: Our traditional dance, the basoga…is just so unique! 🎼
2. Rihana: According to what i see on tv and all I have heard from people, I find Uganda being very peaceful though there is poverty, a lot of wars out there…everyday people are dying. I feel blessed. 😇
3. Francis: Uganda is great. I just don’t know how I can express that in a few words. ☺️
4. Erizeth: The breathtaking landscapes, from the lush greenery to the majestic mountains.🌄
5. Christopher: We love God so much more than America and other countries,what is more beautiful than that?🩵
6. Salima: At least I am still living. I imagine if i lived in Ukraine, Somalia or Libya, I would be dead.🙏
7. Jeremiah: The rich cultural diversity that makes our country a tapestry of traditions.🌍
8. Victor: The resilient spirit of our people, overcoming challenges with grace and strength.⭐️
9. Mark:The sunrise over the savannah, painting the sky with hues of orange and pink.🌞
10. Kyatwike: We are not so greedy. Greedy is why so many are losing their lives and I love that at least we are not comparable to other communities in that way. 💚
11. Shalom: The kindness and compassion that weave through the fabric of Ugandan society.🫂
12. Deziranta:The fact that we love God no matter what comforts me.🙏
13. Benjamin: The laughter of children playing freely, embodying the innocence of our nation.👨🏻❤️💋👨🏿
A Traditional Ugandan Dance
On April 9, 2024, the kids this question: When you reflect in prayer on the love and respect that you feel for your own nation, how would you most want to express that as you grow?❤️😇
And the kids at the Mushunga Community Project replied:
1. Godwin K.: I want to draw pictures of my country and show everyone how beautiful it is!🎨
2. Anitah N.: I will sing the national anthem with all my heart and make everyone proud.🎼
3. Albert G.: I’ll help clean up the parks and make sure our country is always clean and green.🌳
4. Ameria A.: I want to dress up in traditional clothes and teach others about our culture!🦺
5. Ajuna M.: I will share my toys and be kind to everyone, just like our country teaches us.🪆
6. Ignitius W.: I’ll learn about our country’s heroes and tell their stories to my friends.💪🏽
7. Ashiram S.: I’ll plant trees and flowers to make our country even more beautiful.🌴
8. Tobius A.: I want to learn to play an instrument and perform patriotic songs for everyone!🪈
9. Angella N.: I will help people in need and make sure nobody feels left out or sad.😇
10. Peter T.: I’ll learn about our country’s history and share fun facts with my classmates.📘
11. Rachael T.: I want to make art with the colors of our flag and show how much I love my country!🇺🇬
12. Caroline T.: I will be a good listener and help solve problems, just like our country does!👂
13. Elisha T.: I’ll write stories about our country and share them with other kids!✍🏼
14. Philemon A.: I want to learn different languages spoken in our country and make friends with everyone!👯♂️
15. Blessing A.: I will say thank you to the people who make our country safe and happy!🙏
16. Gift K.: I’ll celebrate our country’s holidays with my family and learn their meanings!🎉
17. Rosette N.: I want to visit historical places in our country and learn about their importance!🌉
18. Alex N.: I will learn about different foods from our country and try to cook them with my family!🥗
Reflecting on and loving Uganda:
The kids from the Savannah Rose Home wanted to do these things to express their love for their country once they’re grown:
1. Christopher: Our country needs God. I would preach the gospel to the politicians who rule the nation.✝️
2. Francis: With God everything is possible so maybe letting all people know that God is the source would help my country.🌞
3. Rihana: I want to express my love for my country by studying its history deeply and sharing that knowledge with others.🇺🇬
4. Jeremiah: I feel the best way to serve my nation is by joining programs that support and uplift disadvantaged communities.😇
5. Victor: I would build more churches almost everywhere 💒
6. Shalom: I want to honor my nation and its values 🌠
7. Erizeth: I feel I can best show my love for my country by actively participating in democratic processes like voting. 👆🏼
8. Flowrence: I want to express my respect for my nation by being a positive representative in all aspects of life, like at school.🧑🏽🎓
9. Kyatwike: I believe I can best express my love for my nation by striving for excellence in education.🏆
10. Benjamin: I want to honor my nation by preaching the gospel to the crowd.🙏
11. Salima: I feel I can best show my love for my country by supporting local businesses and industries, thus contributing to its economic prosperity.💵
12. Deziranta: I want to express my respect for my nation by being a responsible citizen, following laws, and respecting authority.👨🏽✈️
13. Mark: I believe I can best express my love for my country by always standing against corruption.⚖️
One of the kids from the Vine of Hope, proudly from Uganda and needing to be sponsored:
Below are the answers reflecting on the Angels of the Nations from the Vine of Hope after the children went into prayer to reflect on the love and respect that each has for our country and how they would most want to express it as they grow:
1. Nangobi; I would like to stop the cutting down of tree so that our country could still reach rain.🌴
2. Nabitaka; I would love to encourage everyone to love each other as we grow.❤️
3. Nambi; I will plant and encourage everyone to plant flowers and trees to make my country beautiful and green.🌸
4. Mwogezi; I would most want to express love and respect for my country through keeping our historical background.📚
5. Nakato; Sharing my country’s stories for other people to feel comfortable to come and visit it, for the love and respect of Uganda.📘
6. Nangobi; I would not encourage anyone to disrespect our national flag.🇺🇬
7. Nakibuka; I would love and respect my country through serving it honestly and hard for its development.🌠
8. Nakayima; I would not encourage anyone to be hostile to our visitors to make Uganda beautiful, safe and lovable.👯♀️
9. Mulondo I would be an active citizen for any development activity.🕺🏾
10. Lubale studying the history of my country and sharing it to others.👬
11. Luwazo I would read stories, tell tales and patriotic legends of my country as I grow up.📚
12. Waiswa; I would love to be supporting each other as I grow up.🫂
13. Nkugwa; for the love and respect for my country I would encourage anyone to keep worshipping God.🙏
14. Twaha; I would want everyone around the world to get to know how we sing our National Anthem as I grow up.🎼
15. Makanika; I would love to teach the visitors our local languages who come from other countries.✍🏼
Helping my Country to be better just as I am—as a child..
On Tuesday, June 18, 2024, The kids were asked to reflect on what they feel they could do to make their country a better place just as they are—just today?❤️😇
The kids at the Mushunga Community Project would help like this:
1. Godwin K.: “I can pick up trash and make Uganda clean.”🏞️
2. Anitah N.: “I can share my toys with my friends and make them happy.”🧸
3. Albert G.: “I can help those in need with gardening and grow more food for them.”🌿
4. Ameria A.: “I can be kind to animals and give them water to drink.”🐯
5. Ajuna M.: “I can help my friends who don’t know how to read and teach them ABC.”📘
6. Ignitius W.: “I can draw pictures and make people smile!”✍🏼
7. Ashiram S.: “I can help my friends with recycling and keep their homes clean.”🏡
8. Tobius A.: “I can be a good friend and play with everyone.”👯♀️
9. Angella N.: “I can help our cooks at the orphanage with cooking and make yummy food for our family.”🍳
10. Peter T.: “I can plant trees and make our country green!”🌴
11. Rachael T.: “I can take care of my little sister and help her learn how to live in our country.”🧑🏽🍼
12. Caroline T.: “I can share my books with my friends and help them learn.”📚
13. Elisha T.: “I can help Tonny with fixing things and make our home better.”⛏️
14. Philemon A.: “I can be a good listener and help my friends feel heard.”👂🏼
15. Blessing A.: “I can make new friends and be kind to everyone.”😇
16. Gift K.: “I can help my friends families in the community with laundry and make our clothes clean.”👚
17. Rosette N.: “I can draw pictures and decorate our home.”🎨
18. Alex N.: “I can help my friends who are sad and make them feel better!”👬
At Mushunga, doing small things in a loving way makes a country a better place:
The kids at the Savannah Rose Home would make their country better in these small ways:
1. Rihana: “The Urantia Book teaches us about Jesusonian conflict resolution and it’s a good way to settle a dispute. If I teach my fellows about it would help us in the future.”🙏
2. Jeremiah: “I will be a good role model.👤
3. Shalom: “I can help by participating in community clean-up. Though I’m young, I can.”🪠
4. Kyatwike “I will make my country better by selling people trees. They are there to help us breathe–and not only for firewood or charcoal.”🌳
5. Francis: “I can volunteer to help in local shelters or food banks to support people in need.”🥦
6. Victor: “I will save my pocket money little by little to donate to charity and support those who are less fortunate, too.”😇
7. Christopher: “Respecting elders is key and I’d give them happiness, if I am good person.”👨🏽🦳
8. Flowrence: “Giving some of my pairs of shoes to the children who come to school barefooted.”👞
9. Benjamin: “Cleaning our well whenever the bush grows around it.”💦
10. Dezilanta: “The Urantia Book restores hope. We can be telling people about it who have not heard.”📘
11. Erizeth: “I will teach my fellows about some tips on guitar.”🎸
12. Salim: “I will participate in school programs that promote peace and unity among students.”☮️
13. Mark: “I can help by being mindful of using resources wisely and encouraging my friends to do the same.”🌿
Learning to play the guitar at Savannah Rose:
On August 28, 2024, the kids were asked to reflect on the fact that each nation has to work to keep peace and find peace when there are so many different kinds of people living in one country, so they were asked: What are different ways that people create and keep peace in your country?❤️😇❤️
How does each country work to create and keep the peace?
The kids at Mushunga create peace like this:
1. Godwin K.: “We create peace by sharing toys and taking turns.”⚽️
2. Anitah N.: “My grandmother says we should always be kind to others, so I try to be nice to everyone.😇”
3. Albert G.: “We can keep peace by not fighting and being friends.”👫
4. Ameria A.: “I think we should respect each other’s differences, like my friend has a different religion, but we still play together!”🙏
5. Ajuna M.: “We can make peace by saying sorry when we hurt someone.”😔
6. Ignitius W.: “My grandfather says we should help others, like giving food to those who don’t have enough.”🍊
7. Ashiram S.: “We can keep peace by not teasing each other and being inclusive.”👥
8. Tobius A.: “I think we should listen to each other’s ideas and work together.”👂🏼
9. Angella N.: “We create peace by being gentle and not hitting each other.”🫂
10. Peter T.: “My teacher says we should respect our leaders and follow rules to keep peace.👮🏽♀️”
11. Rachael T.: “We can make peace by forgiving each other when we make mistakes.”❤️
12. Caroline T.: “I think we should share what we have with others, like toys and books.”📚
13. Elisha T.: “We keep peace by not gossiping and talking nicely about each other.”😊
14. Philemon A.: “Our Bishop says we should pray for peace and love each other!”🩵
15. Blessing A.: “We create peace by being happy and smiling at each other.”☺️
16. Gift K.: “I think we should help those who are sad or hurt to make them feel better.”🫂
17. Rosette N.: “We can keep peace by not wasting water and taking care of the environment.”💦
18. Alex N.: “My grandfather says we should respect our elders and listen to their advice!”👩🏾🦳
Helping Uncle Tonny make dinner at Mushunga:
At Savannah Rose, the kids shared the insights they’ve gotten from practicing community where they live:
Here are our responses.
They’re based on what exactly is practiced down the village and within our community.
1. Jeremiah
“In our community, we believe in dialogue. Elders often gather to talk about issues and find solutions before conflicts arise. Respecting each other, especially the elders, helps us maintain peace.”👨🏽🦳
2. Victor
“We keep peace by having strong family ties. Whenever there’s a disagreement, we involve the clan heads who help to mediate and bring people together.”🧑🏽🍼
3. Shalom
“People emphasize forgiveness. We have a saying that encourages us to forgive one another, which helps us to live in harmony.”🙏
4. Christopher
“We have a culture of sitting together to discuss any problems. The elders play a big role in advising the younger ones on how to resolve conflicts peacefully.”👩🏾🦳
5. Flowrence
Response: “Our community values unity. We believe in helping each other, and this creates a bond that keeps us peaceful. When there’s an issue, the community comes together to resolve it.”🩵
6. Benjamin
“We believe in reconciliation. After any conflict, we hold reconciliation ceremonies where people forgive each other and restore peace.”😇
7. Kyatwike
“Peace is maintained by showing respect and following the rules set by the community. The elders ensure everyone follows the rules, which prevents conflicts.”👮🏽♀️
8. Mark
“Our community values honesty. By being truthful with each other, we avoid misunderstandings and keep peace in the community.”🗣️
9. Desilanta
“We have a practice of communal meetings where everyone is encouraged to speak out. This open communication helps us to solve problems and maintain peace.”👥
10. Rihana
“We value generosity and sharing. By sharing what we have, we avoid conflicts and live peacefully with each other.”🫲🏽
11. Erizetth
“We believe in mutual respect. Elders teach us to respect everyone, regardless of age, which helps us to live peacefully.”🙏
12. Salima
“Our community has a tradition of gathering around a fire to talk about our day. This daily interaction helps us to resolve any issues before they escalate.”🔥
13. Francis
“We practice humility. Being humble allows us to apologize quickly when we wrong others, which helps in keeping peace.”😔
Peace at the Vine Of Hope:
These are the answers reflecting on the different ways that people create and keep peace in Uganda from the Vine of Hope 🙏:
1. Nangobi; We create and keep peace through fighting against racism.🗣️
2. Nabitaka; We keep peace through keeping law and order in the country.👮🏽♀️
3. Nambi; Through sharing love to others–that’s how we keep peace in the country.❤️
4. Mwogezi; We create and keep peace through working together in our communities.👥
5. Nakato; The only way is coming back to God and there will also be peace in the country.😇
6. Nangobi; We keep peace in our country through sharing the teaching of Jesus and now he used to love everyone.🩵
7. Nakibuka; We can create peace through sharing a little that we have with others.🫶
8. Nakayima; We keep peace through following our tradition backgrounds.🇺🇬
9. Mulondo; We keep peace in the country through controlling arms sales.💰
10. Lubale; We keep peace through keeping calm against violence.✌🏽
11. Luwazo; Through connecting with other peace builders in our community–that’s how we can keep peace.☮️
12. Waiswa; We keep peace through creating bonds with others.🫂
13. Nbone; We keep peace through stopping violence.✋🏽
14. Nkugwa; We create and keep peace through helping those in need.😇
15. Twaha; Through Listening to hear what others have to say, not to speak.👂🏼
16. Manika; We keep peace through treating others the way you wish to be treated.👫
17. Mbweila: We create peace through forgiving others.😔
18. Nbone; Through loving God.❤️
Sharing mangoes at Mushunga:
On November 4, 2024, after reflecting on a poem full of wise sayings by the Persian Sufi mystic, Rumi, the kids were asked to think about the wise sayings that they’ve grown up with so far that come from their own country. Did they have a favorite one that they’d like to share? ❤️😇❤️
These are the wise sayings in their native language of Runyankole,, in western Uganda, that the kids at Mushunga love:
*Godwin K.*
“My favorite saying is ‘Kuhingira omwana, wahingira ekitanga’ (Teach a child, teach the community). My grandma told me this. It means we should learn good things when we’re young.”🧑🏽🍼
*Anitah N.*
“I like ‘Omwana wa muntu, ni omwana w’abantu’ (A person’s child is everyone’s child). My mom says this. It means we’re all family.”👯♂️
*Albert G.*
“My favorite is ‘Kwetaaha ekimera, kiwetaaha ekimwija’ (When you help someone, you help yourself). My grandfather says this. It means helping others is good.”😇
*Ameria A.*
“I love ‘Ebitakuri biganja, ebirungi biramba’ (Good manners attract friends). My teacher taught me this. It means being kind makes friends.”🙏
*Ajuna M.*
“My grandma says ‘Orukundo rw’abantu, rworikunda’ (Love for others brings happiness). It means sharing love makes everyone happy.”❤️
*Ignitius W.*
“I know this one! ‘Kuhwerako ahabw’omwana, kuhwerako ekitanga’ (Teach a child patience, teach them wisdom). My uncle told me.”🫂
*Ashiram S.*
“My grandma says ‘Omwana asiimwe, asiimwe abaana’ (A happy child makes happy parents). It makes me smile!”😊
*Tobius A.*
“My favorite is ‘Ekirungi ky’omwana, kirungi ky’abantu’ (A child’s goodness is everyone’s goodness). We learned this in school.”🫠
*Angella N.*
“I like ‘Kwetaaha ekimwija, kiwetaaha ekitanga’ (Helping others helps the community). My brother taught me.”🙌🏾
*Peter T.*
“My dad says ‘Omwana wa kuhweza, omwana wa kwetaaha’ (A child who listens, helps others). I try to listen more.”👂🏼
*Rachael T.*
“My teacher says ‘Ekitanga ky’omwana, kye k’abantu’ (A child’s community is everyone’s). We’re all connected.”👥
*Caroline T.*
“I love ‘Kuhwerako ekimera, kuhwerako ekimwija’ (Teaching kindness teaches love). My teacher teaches me this.”🥰
*Elisha T.*
“My favorite is ‘Omwana asiimwe abaana, asiimwe abantu’ (A happy child makes happy family). Makes me happy!”😊
*Philemon A.*
“My grandma says ‘Kwetaaha ekimwija, kiwetaaha ekirungi’ (Helping others brings goodness). I want to help more.”😇
*Blessing A.*
“I like ‘Ekirungi ky’abantu, ky’omwana’ (Everyone’s goodness is a child’s goodness). My teacher taught me.”🙌🏾
*Gift K.*
“My dad says ‘Omwana wa muntu, ni omwana w’eby’okuhweza’ (A person’s child is everyone’s listener). I try to listen.”👂🏼
*Rosette N.*
“My mom says ‘Ebitakuri biganja, ebirungi biramba ekimwija’ (Good manners attract friends and love). I want friends.”👯♂️
*Alex N.*
“My favorite is ‘Kuhwerako ekimera, kuhwerako ekirungi’ (Teaching patience teaches goodness). My uncle taught me.”🙏
Wisdom and music at Savannah Rose:
These are Basoga and Baganda sayings that the kids at Savannah Rose love from their culture in eastern Uganda:
1. Rihanna
Proverb: “Ekitibwa kya mwoyo tekirema kukuya omusenyu.”
Meaning: “The humility of the heart doesn’t stop one from kneeling on the dust.”
Explanation: True humility goes beyond pride and appearances; it’s about being grounded and respectful, regardless of circumstances.🙏
2. Francis
Proverb: “Akusubiire omu mutima talaga bubi bwo.”
Meaning: “The one who loves you deeply does not expose your flaws.”
Explanation: True friends and family protect your dignity, even when they know your weaknesses.😇
3. Jeremiah
Proverb: “Enkoko etatambulira, teyesa muliro.”
Meaning: “A hen that doesn’t move, doesn’t find food.”
Explanation: Effort is essential for success. You can’t achieve anything by sitting idle.🐓
4. Shalom
Proverb: “Eyamala okumuuma, tayiitayo ng’ataasa.”
Meaning: “One who has tasted the waters does not pass by when others are thirsty.”
Explanation: Those who have experienced blessings should share and help others in need.🙌🏾
5. Salima
Proverb: “Omukazi atalina mwoyo, tasobola kulabirira ebintu.”
Meaning: “A woman without compassion cannot manage a household.”
Explanation: Compassion and care are essential qualities, especially in roles of responsibility and care.🧑🏽🍼
6. Christopher
Proverb: “Obufumbo bw’omwaana butungwawo na baganda.”
Meaning: “A child’s marriage is strengthened by relatives.”
Explanation: Strong relationships need the support and involvement of family and community.👥
7. Victor
Proverb: “Engo ekiyiba enshuma tiwoleka nsingo.”
Meaning: “A leopard that eats sheep does not show its neck.”
Explanation: Wrongdoers often hide their intentions or don’t openly reveal their actions.🐾
8. Benjamin
Proverb: “Ekikere ekyekubiira kitanoga matama.”
Meaning: “The frog that blows itself up does not gain cheeks.”
Explanation: Exaggerating oneself doesn’t add value or make you better than you are.🐸
9. Erizeth
Proverb: “Ekitandako ekitalina mutwe, ekiwagi ekimanyi okuyinda.”
Meaning: “One who starts something without a plan cannot take it far.”
Explanation: Planning is crucial for success; without it, things fall apart.🧑🏽🎓
10. Flowrence
Proverb: “Ekitaka kya mukwano tekimulamu mutwa.”
Meaning: “A friend’s land does not grow thorns.”
Explanation: A true friend’s kindness is welcoming and safe, like a land without thorns.💚
11. Kyatwike
Proverb: “Obuntu bulinda busala nga lubambula.”
Meaning: “Things wait patiently until they ripen, like fruit.”
Explanation: Patience is key; rushing often spoils the outcome, while waiting brings fulfillment.🥭
12. Mark
Proverb: “Abeera n’omwoyo guwunya ng’eggaali eyekukuuma.”
Meaning: “He who has a bitter heart stays like an unkept cart.”
Explanation: Bitterness inside affects one’s outward behavior and interactions.😣
13. Desilanta
Proverb: “Olowoza enjala, oyimuka netakwekuba bwereere.”
Meaning: “When hunger drives you, you don’t rise in vain.”
Explanation: Motivation drives action; hunger and need inspire hard work.🛠️
The small things that we do help our countries to be good. Everybody in the fields helping to put in the crops at Savannah Rose:
On February 3rd, 2025, we had the kids pause, to think and pray on the quote from Ghandi from the previous week, and then we asked them to reflect on this question: “What small thing am I doing (that’s good) that is actually already helping my country to be better in a much bigger way?” ❤️😇❤️
Small acts:
The kids at Mushunga felt these small acts were helping their country:
Godwin K.
I help my grandma clean our compound. I pick up trash and make sure it’s clean. This helps keep our country clean and beautiful.🌞
Anitah N.
I share my toys and books with my friends. This makes them happy, and when we’re happy, our country is happy too!🧸
Albert G.
I help my grandparents water our garden. This helps grow food, and when we have food, everyone in our country can eat and be strong.💦
Ameria A.
I always say please and thank you. This makes people smile, and when people smile, our country becomes a happier place.😊
Ajuna M.
I help take care of my little brother. This helps my mom, and when our families are happy, our country is happy too.🧑🏽🍼
Ignitius W.
I don’t waste water. I turn off the tap while brushing my teeth. This helps save water for everyone in our country.💦
Ashiram S.
I help feed our chickens. This gives us eggs, and eggs are good food for our country.🐓
Tobius A.
I plant trees with my friends. Trees help keep our air clean, and clean air makes our country healthy.🌳
Angella N.
I sing songs that make people happy. When people are happy, they do good things, and that helps our country.🎼
Peter T.
I help my guardian carry groceries. This helps her , and when she is happy, our country is happy too.😇
Rachael T.
I share my snacks with my friends. This makes them happy, and happy friends make our country happy.👯♀️
Caroline T.
I help keep our classroom clean. This helps our school, and when our schools are clean, our country is clean too.👩🏽🏫
Elisha T.
I help my sister fix broken things. This helps our community, and when our communities are strong, our country is strong.🛠️
Philemon A.
I say sorry when I make mistakes. This helps my friends forgive me, and when we forgive each other, our country becomes a more loving place.😔
Blessing A.
I help take care of our school garden. This helps grow flowers and trees, and beautiful gardens make our country beautiful.🌷
Gift K.
I give hugs to my friends when they’re sad. This makes them feel better, and when we feel better, our country feels better too.🫂
Rosette N.
I help my brother to cook meals. This helps feed our family, and when our families are fed, our country is happy.🍳
Alex N.
I help collect trash in our community. This helps keep our country clean, and clean countries are healthy and strong.🦾
Helping Uganda be better at Mushunga:
The kids at Savannah Rose look to making Uganda better through these small practices:
1. Erizeth: “I help my friends study hard so that we all become smart and help our country.🧑🏽🎓
2. Rihanna: “I clean up around our home, and that helps make our place beautiful.”🌞
3. Kyatwike: “I am kind to my friends, and that makes people happier and peaceful.”😇
4. Christopher: “I help carry water when it’s needed, so we can all do things better.”💦
5. Benjamin: “I help take care of the garden, and that gives us food.”🥦
6. Flowrence: “I look after my younger friends so they feel safe.”👯♀️
7. Victor: “I plant trees and flowers because they make the environment good.”🌳
8. Jeremiah: “I share what I have, and that makes everyone happy.”🙌🏾
9. Desilanta: “I help keep our home clean, and that makes it nice for everyone.”🧹
10. Mark: “I remind my friends to pray, and that brings peace and blessings.”🙏
11. Francis: “I help in taking care of the goats, which is important for us.”🐐
12. Salima: “I sing and make people happy, and happiness is important for our country.”🗣️
13. Shalom: “I help watch over my friends when we play to keep everyone safe.”😇
Religious tolerance:
On April 29, 2025, in light of Gus Dur’s quote about tolerance the week before, the kids were asked: How does religious tolerance help to create peace in a nation?❤️😇❤️
Interfaith connection:
At Savannah Rose, the kids thought tolerance could create peace in these ways:
Erizeth:
“Religious tolerance brings peace because we learn not to fight over our beliefs. We can be friends even if we pray differently.”👏🏽
Rihanna:
“When people respect each other’s religions, they don’t hurt each other. They share love instead of hate.”❤️
Kyatwike:
“It helps people live like one big family. God loves everyone, no matter their religion.”🦋
Christopher:
“If we are kind to people with different beliefs, we make our country safe and happy.”😇
Benjamin:
“Peace comes when we don’t shout at others for believing something else. We listen and care.”🫂
Flowrence:
“Religious tolerance means I can have friends from everywhere, and we can play and sing together.”👯
Victor:
“It makes God smile when we love others, not just people from our own religion.”☺️
Jeremiah:
“Tolerance is like sharing your toys. If you share, everyone is happy.”☮️
Desilanta:
“I feel safe when no one is angry about my prayers. That’s what peace is.”🙏
Mark:
“If we don’t fight about religion, we can help each other grow food, build homes, and go to school.”🌽
Francis:
“Different religions are like different colors. Together, they make something beautiful.”🌈
Salima:
“When we accept others, we learn new things. That makes our hearts big and peaceful.”🧑🏽🎓
Shalom:
“God made all people. So we should love all people, not just people who pray like us.”🩵
Tolerance for others creates love at Mushunga:
The kids at Mushunga feel that tolerating people who think differently can create a peaceful nation like this:
1. Godwin K.: “When everyone respects each other’s beliefs, we don’t fight.”😇
2. Anitah N.: “It makes everyone feel happy and safe.”🧑🏽🍼
3. Albert G.: “We can be friends with people who pray differently.”👫
4. Ameria A.: “It helps us understand each other better.”☺️
5. Ajuna M.: “When we tolerate, we live in peace.”☮️
6. Ignitius W.: “Everyone gets along when they respect each other.”🙏
7. Ashiram S.: “No one gets hurt when we accept differences.”✌🏽
8. Tobius A.: “We can celebrate different festivals together.”🎉
9. Angella N.: “It brings love and kindness to our community.”💚
10. Peter T.: “We learn from each other’s beliefs.”👥
11. Rachael T.: “Everyone feels included.”👯
12. Caroline T.: “It stops fights and arguments.”🙇🏽
13. Elisha T.: “God wants us to love everyone.”❤️
14. Philemon A.: “We can pray together sometimes.”👏🏽
15. Blessing A.: “Tolerance makes our hearts happy.”🤗
16. Gift K.: “Everyone is treated fairly.”⚖️
17. Rosette N.: “We become better friends.”🫂
18. Alex N.: “Peace comes when we respect each other.”👨❤️👨
How does it help your country when you are visionary and loving?