When the Pathway Seems Long

From our July 2011 Newsletter

My parents did their best to bring me up in their most affordable way. When I was in class three, things fell apart following the passing away of my dad. Life was unappealing to the poor family since the bread winner was not there and coincidentally my mother was jobless. To save the boat from sinking my mother started doing odd jobs such as washing clothes, digging other people’s shambas, (farms) and other manual jobs.

At that time I wanted to give up learning due to the challenges I faced at school and back at home. I lacked sufficient diet, I wore tattered clothes, and at school I was mocked, isolated and discriminated by children from advantaged families. Many days I never went to school and instead I went to the streets to fend for myself. I thought I would end up being a watchman or a cart pusher.

Ooh! I was in class seven at last – only one more step, then graduate to be the town cart pusher! I had now given up. Going to school having not taken any meal and dressed differently from the others was a big challenge. I saw God’s great love when, after realizing my potential towards success, our school head teacher gave a lot of support and the kids I worked with introduced me to Jitegemee program. The following day I was interviewed on various matters then I was sponsored. I was issued a new uniform. This was my first time to wear a new uniform and new leather shoes.  In addition to that stationery was provided while tuition fees were catered for. We were then all equal at school – no one belittles me. My self esteem and attitude towards life and myself changed positively. I vowed to work as hard as I could.

I started putting more efforts, “Why crawl when you can walk, walk when you can run, run when you can fly?” Martin Luther King, Jr. Therefore when I did my KCPE exams I attained 411 out of the possible 500 marks and secured a chance at Alliance High School (the top school in the country). I am a true witness to other street children that with determination one can make it in life whatever background you come from.  I have a dream of becoming a neurosurgeon. By attaining that I wish to join Jitegemee in their noble work of sponsoring street children. One thing which I realized is that street children require moral support more than any other person.

Finally, I would like to thank our donors, director, staff members and all people of good will for opening my eyes. Your support, financially, morally, spiritually etc is highly appreciated.

When the pathway seems long,

When temptation is strong,

When your strength is almost gone,

That’s the time to press on.

Streets kids are able to make it in life.

-Meshack Wambua Nzioka