Thanks to Your Support

It's really a great to feel supported in what you are doing. Today, as I sort through the various donations we've been given I'm feeling happier than I normally do. With one week to go, that's right, only 7 DAYS LEFT UNTIL DEPARTURE!, the reality of this trips potential has hit me in full for the first time. I can't tell you for sure the exact nature of it, but I think is has a bit to do with all of the following:

1. I'm fulfilling a promise I made to myself to make sure the people of Namuwongo, and those in impoverished living conditions in general, were not forgotten. That is, that my work last summer was not destined to be that of a one hit wonder, but derived from something deeper and lasting. And, if I may get a bit personal (which I can, I'm an author - hehe!), this connection between something felt and something tangible is of great value to me as I search for real ways to influence the world. Real, in the physical or temporal sense - not just the metaphysical (sorry, philosophy major!) .

2. The project is larger than it was last year. Having the opportunity to create permanent, quality fields is something I hadn't thought about. I think I hadn't thought about this because it never seemed feasible enough to break through my subconscious. Just goes to show that great ideas are fostered more often in cooperation more than in solitude.

3. Because there are more people involved, due to a greater number of "moving parts" we'll get to share the project with more participants and people abroad. With the blog, our documentary, and a few other tricks up our sleeves we're hoping to communicate the value of sport development work in addition to raising the level of general awareness of extreme poverty. It's difficult to fully grasp the plight of another when we live so "far" away. Far can be interpreted as both metaphorical and literal. Proximity seems to be less and less of an argument against international aid as global economics evolve and technology begin to connect the most disenfranchised with those born into opportunity. Change begins with awareness.

4. I'm excited for this project because I really didn't think I was going to be able to go. When I returned home from China in January (the 9th to be exact), I had $500, no job, and was receiving food stamps. The idea to go back to Uganda has sprung to mind about a month prior to this and the logistics seemed insurmountable. But, as Luck would have it and Fortune bless, the pieces fell into place: a job, a gift, community support, and an organization willing to challenge possibility and swing for the fences. Now, we haven't hit a home run yet. As a matter of fact, and for the sake of analogical (not sure if that is a word, but it sounds cool) consistency, we haven't even taken our first swing. We're just stepping into the batters box.

We couldn't be happier that you've chosen to follow along. Please, spread the word and send us your comments. Hearing from you really does brighten our day and give us confidence. Thank you!

Matt