My stay in Masindi was my first encounter with Africa, making it an incredibly powerful experience.
Beyond the high temperatures, breathtaking nature, different diet, and perpetually dusty shoes during the dry season, what struck me the most was the maturity and independence of the children at Window of Life.
I remember being deeply moved by the sight of older children helping the younger ones bathe or little kids carrying heavy water containers for washing dishes. It was then that I realized just how distant our Western world truly is. Of course, living conditions in Uganda are vastly different and require children—especially those without parents—to learn responsibility early on. Still, their deep sense of responsibility and independence, even if sometimes imposed by circumstances, is truly heart-touching. I will always remember that.
Spending time in Masindi from mid-December to the end of February, celebrating Christmas, New Year’s, and the school break with the children, I feel as if I spent a significant part of their lives with them. During that time, I got to know them so well that just by hearing a cry outside the window, I could tell exactly which child was causing trouble or needed help.
A huge part of my experience was also the other volunteers. We shared not only moments at the orphanage but also exchanged perspectives, explored the town together, traveled, had long evening talks, shared meals, and laughed endlessly.
Thank you!
see also
