Uganda Trip Recap - James Morrison

Where do I even begin?

Three weeks in Wakiso, Uganda has come and gone. I knew going into the trip that it was going to fly by but nothing could’ve prepared me for how hard it was going to be leaving the people of Rafiki. The kids are some of the most intelligent, joyful, faithful, talented and impactful people I’ve ever been around. The Mommas (women who look out for the kids and basically do everything to keep things normal in their day to day lives) are a true inspiration. Physically and mentally so strong!! Full of appreciation and the biggest of smiles they are women that I will never forget and will always come to mind for inspiration. The administration (Madam Yeen) a woman who has a vision to do everything she possibly can to give these kids an opportunity to become the best person they possibly can be and to fulfill whatever their dream is. A woman who has dedicated her life to serving others!
THANK YOU!! Thank you to all of you and also to Managers on a Mission. I’ve probably said thank you to Drew Boe and Seth Ralston (two amazing guys who make this opportunity happen for all of us) so many times since being back for letting me have this opportunity that it has gotten old but I can’t thank them enough.

Being back in the states and being able to share this experience with friends, family, coaching buddies, mentors, roommates and many others has honestly been one of my favorite parts of the whole thing. I’ve been able to have amazing conversations lately and can’t wait to continue sharing to others. Now actually putting this into a blog is something that has been hard because there is soooooooo much to share that all of you reading this would get tired of reading. I’ve joked around with friends saying I’m going to write a book about the trip… seriously might now that I’m typing this haha!

God is AMAZING!! Last year I heard about Managers on a Mission through a close friend of mine. He mentioned that I should look into this opportunity. It was a time where I had so much going on with trying to break into the coaching industry that I didn’t feel like it was the right time and also didn’t feel like I would stand a chance of getting accepted. Now this year comes around and the same friend mentions it again. This time I had zero hesitation. I applied and prayed about it for months until I got a call that I’ll never forget.

I want to encourage anyone and everyone to look into Managers on a Mission! I’ve seen so much growth in myself that I’m so excited to be able to use going forward. I was able to do things that I’ve never been confident about or make an impact in ways that I didn’t know was possible. These kids who you see pictures of are the most amazing kids! They taught me so much that I needed to learn! From teaching basketball, lacrosse, volleyball, football and many other fun activities, nightly devotions, to meals with food that I’ve never heard of, countless games of UNO, a bonfire that led to some of the most moving stories, and the most special events of all being called to lead two young women (Molly and Rebecca) to Christ for the very first time. I’ve learned so many lessons about life in general that has opened up my eyes and it gives me so much future excitement.

These kids are so talented but also are so open to learn anything that is being taught to them. Singing, playing different instruments, art, athletics, farming, and overall knowledge of how to do anything is so impressive! They were able to teach me so much!

The sports industry is an industry full of amazing opportunity. It is full of doors ready to break down to make an impact on others through Christ. I am PUMPED to share this with everyone I possibly can. I know life will bring me back to Uganda sooner than later. I can’t wait for that!! Thank you Managers on a Mission and Rafiki… you all are a true blessing. Thank you for anyone who read this and hope to be able to talk to you soon!

Ephesians 3:20 (ESV): “Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power within us.”