Uganda Trip Recap - Jordan Hartman

So much happened during our two weeks in Uganda that it is tough to summarize the
entire experience. However, looking back on the trip now, I can definitely say that it was a life-changing trip. What I believe sticks with me most from the trip is the pure joy and hope that the kids we worked with live with. Their individual situations are not the best, but yet they go through each day with a positive outlook and a smile on their face. When we would teach the kids football, they did not know how to throw a football. Most of them could not even catch the footballs, but they had so much fun just throwing the balls back and forth with each other. It did not matter if it hit them in the face because they still thought it was so much fun to play with. I believe that also helps to show the work that the Lord is doing in their lives. Even though they may not have the worldly possessions that they want, they are still able to live happily because of their relationship that they have with God. The positivity that all the people there had eye opening for me and refreshing to see.

Aside from the people that we met in Uganda, another impactful part of the trip was the
relationships members of our MOAM team developed with one another. As soon as we all got together, the bonds that we formed were so strong, and that was a great part of the trip. It was cool to see Henry and some of the others that we met say that they could not believe we had only met once before going on the trip. Our tight bonds with each other was just another testament to the work that God was doing with us while we were there. I hope to continue to stay in touch with people from this team going forward as well.

Finally, another impactful part of the trip was just all of the experiences that I had during
the trip that put me out of my comfort zone. Going out into the streets and speaking with local Ugandan people was a nerve-wracking situation for me, but it is something that will help me for years to come. When I am put in tough situations back home, some of them will no longer phase me as I have grown from my time in Uganda. Also, getting to see the beauty of Uganda is something I will never forget. The four-wheeling around the Nile is an experience I will be telling people about for years.

Overall, my time in Uganda was amazing, and I would suggest a MOAM trip to anyone that is able to go!

Jordan Hartman – University of Pittsburgh