The Home Seraphim
This week’s reflection
How would you help the people you live with to have a happier home?
Share your thoughts below — and read what others are saying.
This week’s reflection
How would you help the people you live with to have a happier home?
Share your thoughts below — and read what others are saying.
This category is all about home. The feeling of peace, sanctuary and protection for both kids and parents.❤️
The first question that the children were asked was on August 22, 2023. They were asked to reflect in meditation and prayer on what is that they most loved about their home. These kids are orphans and live in orphanages but they find no shortage of love there.💚
These were some of the answers from the children at the Vine Of Hope:
Nangobi Aisha said that she is so grateful that we are one family and she loves being with Uncle Isa because he is so caring.💙
Waiswa said that he is so most grateful for the things that God has done for them. They have a good home, they sleep well, eat well and are also living in a clean house or place.🧡
Lubale Swaliki said that he is so most grateful for the cooperation that we do in our home. We work together in everything.💛
Mwogezi Nabilla said that he is so most grateful for being with Uncle Isa and Sister Kawooma. Those people are so grateful 🙏 and blessing.
And Tonny at the Mushunga Community Project sent a beautiful video where the kids talked about what they loved and also thanked their sponsors but I haven’t figured out how to post it yet. 🙂
In the garden at the Vine of Hope, 2023:
The second question the kids were asked was on November 24, 2023 and they were asked, after seeing all the things that their parents or sponsors or teachers, if residing in the orphanage, do for them, what would they like to give them in turn? 🩷
These were the answers from the kids in Mushunga:
1. Anitah: l would Say “thank you” with a big smile and a hug.🥰
2. Vincent: l would draw a picture or make a special card for them.🖌️
3. Ashiram: l would Help them with a small task, like picking up toys 🪆 or setting the table.
4. Peter: l would give them a high-five or a fist bump to show your appreciation.🙌
5. Peace: l would Sing a song or perform a little dance to make them smile.❣️
6. Gift: l would Share my favorite toy or snack with them as a gesture of kindness.💚
7. Godwin: l would Say something nice about them, like “you’re the best!” or “I love you.”💑
8. Ajuka: l would Offer to read them a story or play a game together.🏓
9. Tobius: l would Give them a big, heartfelt “thank you” in my own words.😘
10. Ameria: l would show them love and respect by listening and following their guidance.☺️
And then the kids at the Vine of Hope answered:
1. Nkugwa said he would dance for that person.🕺🏾
2. Luwazo said, Thank you so much and I really appreciate.😘
3. Mulondo said he would offer to do anything like house work in return.🏠
4. Waiswa said he would sing and dance.🎼
5. Twaha said he would go and look for some fresh fruits to give in return.🍎
6. Mbweila said it could be dancing 💃.
7. Nangobi Mariam said she would really appreciate and keep praying for that person inturn to the goodness of that person.🙏
8. Nabitaka said she would show love and respect 🙏 in return.
9. Nambi said she would offer a fun story to make he or she feel better with a smile on the face.🌺
10. Mwogezi said she would cook a good meal.🍳
11. Nakato said she would draw a cartoon picture for that person.✏️
12. Nangobi Aisha said she would sing.🎹
13. Nakibuka said she would make a doll in turn.🪆
14. Nakayima said she would tell stories.🦄
15. Lubale said he would run, jump and hug—also keeping that person in prayers.🙏
16. Makanika said he would always say a prayer to that person.😇
17. Mbone said he could dance put a smile on his or her face.🕺🏾
18. Isa: I would say thank you so much, take time and pray for you, draw a picture, tell stories and many more. ❤️
A good meal at home at the Mushunga Community Project:
In the gardens at home at the Vine of Hope:
On March 5, 2024 the kids were asked to reflect on how they would like their homes to be when they grew up and could have their own. The kids from the Vine Of Hope answered this way:
Nakayima: I want my house to have beautiful flowers and cool environment for visitors.🌸
Nakibuka: I want my house to have a garden for crops.🥬
Nangobi: I would want my house to have a bigger tree that provides warm shade and fresh air.🌳
Nakato: I would like my house to a side garden of fruits for my family and visitors.🍑
Mwogezi: I would like my house to have a library with all books for people to have time and read.📘
Nambi: I would like my house to be like garden of heaven 😊.
Nabitaka: I would want my house to be in a quiet place, have bigger compound with garden of all foods when I grow up.🌽
Nangobi: I would like my house to have alot of toys for the babies to feel good while playing.🧸
Mulondo: I would like my house to have a poultry farm and birds as well.🐣
Lubale: I would like my house to have a swimming pool.💦
Luwazo: I would like my house to have lighting butterflies 🦋 like sky when I grow up.
Waiswa: I would like my house to have a fishpond.🐠
Nkugwa: I would like my house to animals like castles and goats.🐃
The kids at the Mushunga Community Project love their gardens!
And they virtualized they’re grown-up homes like this:
1. Annitah: I would like my house to have a cozy reading corner with lots of books and a comfy chair or bean bag.📘
2. Vincent: l would like my house to have a room for arts and crafts, with paper, crayons, and other creative supplies.🎨
3. Albert G: I would like my house to have a backyard with space to play games like tag or hide-and-seek.👯♂️
4. Ajuna M: I would like my house to have a kitchen where i can bake cookies or make my favorite snacks with friends and my family. 🥘
5. Ashiram S: l would like my house to have a room with a big puzzle or board game collection for fun family nights.🎲
6. Angella N: I would like my house to have a garden where i can grow my own fruits, vegetables, or flowers.🌺
7. Peter T: I would like my house to have a special spot for my favorite hobby, like a space for playing music or doing sports.🎼
8. Elisha T: I would like my house to have a place where me friends and family can sit and jazz about history or what we pass through.📚
9. Gift K: I would like my house to have a treehouse or fort made from recycled materials or old blankets and pillows.🌳
10. Princess A: I would like my house to have a space to have sleepovers with friends, like a cozy tent or sleeping bags.⛺️
Loving growing things at the Savannah Rose Rescue Home in March, 2024:
The kids at the Savannah Rose Rescue Home dream of these sweet homes when they grow:
1. Shalom: “I dream of a cozy home with a small garden where I can grow greens and not buy them in market.”🍊
2. Erizeth: “I envision a peaceful home with a small garden where my rabbit would play from.”🐰
3. Mark: “I’d like a comfortable place with even a small garden to look at. A green environment.” 🌿
4. Francis: “My dream home would have a tiny garden and swimming pool.”💦
5. Jeremiah: “I want a stable home with a simple garden to practice farming God’s way.”🙏
6. Florence: “I dream of a loving home with a modest garden where I can spend time outdoors.”🌺
7. Christopher: “My dream house should have a at least a small playground where I can play football with folks.”⚽️
8. Benjamin: “I envision a cozy place with a little garden to cultivate and enjoy.”🥬
9. Salima: “I’d like a peaceful environment with a small garden to tend to and find solace in.”☺️
10. Deziranta: “A comforting space with a tiny garden to grow some food crops.”🥒
11. Victor: “I dream of a nurturing home with a small garden to explore and discover.”🫐
12. Rihanna: “I want a welcoming place with a small garden to find tranquility in.”😇
13. Kyatwike: “A loving environment with a modest garden to cherish and care for.”🪒
❤️
Peaceful moments at home:
On May 15, 2024, the kids were asked to reflect and respond to this question: “Can you think about a really peaceful moment that you’ve had at home and then share it?”
The kids at Savannah Rose had these peaceful memories:
Mark: “I remember a peaceful moment when I sat with my siblings on the porch, and started asking each other about if God is there and is seeing us!?”👁️
Victor:”One day, I helped Auntie Juliet cook dinner, and we talked about our dreams for the future while chopping vegetables together.”🥕
Kyatwike: “My peaceful moment was when I played soccer with my friends in the backyard, feeling the joy of the game and laughter.⚽️
Shalom: “I loved it when we all gathered around the mango tree and we were asked about what we want to be in future and it felt like we’re already in the future.”💫
Christopher: “My peaceful moment is when I drew pictures with crayons on old newspapers, imagining colorful worlds.”🖍️
Flowrence:I found peace in helping Uncle John fix things around the house, learning how to use tools and being helpful.”🔨
Benjamin: “Sitting in kitchen enjoying roasted maize and telling jokes, was a moment of pure joy and peace for me.”🌽
Salima: “I enjoyed reading books in our small library corner like “Gulu Goes to School” surrounded by the smell of old pages and stories.”📘
Dezilanta: “My peaceful moment is when I skipped stones on the nearby valley with Francis, Salima and Shalom, feeling connected to nature.”🌿
Francis:”Playing traditional games like (blada, sinko, and kadome) with my siblings brings us all together and creates a peaceful atmosphere.”🏃🏾
Jerimiah: “I find peace in helping Uncle John prepare meals, chopping vegetables and learning family recipes.”🥦
Erizeth: “My peaceful moment is when we happened for the first day in the music lessons, everything was very new and interesting right there under the mango tree, listening to birds chirping and feeling the breeze.”🦚
Rihana: “I loved when we all gather around the fire pit, roasting cassava and sharing stories.”🔥
Peaceful moments at the Vine of Hope, Spring, 2024:
The kids at the Vine of Hope shared their peaceful moments:
1. Nangobi; I remember the peaceful moment I had when we were seated outside at night telling stories with my family.📚
2. Nabitaka; One of my peaceful moments at home was when I was watching the movie of Jesus Christ.✝️
3. Nambi; My peaceful moment was when sister Aprilhelen visited and had a playful moment with us.❤️
4. Mwogezi; My peaceful moment is when I was helping Uncle Isa with cooking our meal.🍳
5. Nakato; My peaceful moment at home is sitting down and reading books with Nabitaka.📘
6. Nangobi Aisha; One of my peaceful moments was singing to my little sisters and brothers at home.🎼
7. Nakibuka; My peaceful moment is when I was listening to music 🎶 most especially Gospel.
8. Nakayima; I can’t imagine the day I was singing and uprising the name of the glory. That moment was so cool.🗣️
9. Mulondo; One of the most peaceful moments was when I received my gift from my brothers and sisters.🎁
10. Lubale; My peaceful moment was when I was playing football with my friends and family from home.⚽️
11. Luwazo; There came a moment at home when everyone was so happy because of what they have in life and that moment I take it to be my peaceful.🙏
12. Waiswa; My peaceful moment was when I was playing like a Dj while others are playing.😎
13. Nbone; My peaceful moment was when we had a Christmas dinner at home.🎄
14. Nkugwa; One of my peaceful moments was when we went for bouncing Castles on Christmas.🏰
15. Twaha; My peaceful moment was when we had received our gifts from Auntie Robin. That moment I felt so calm and known that we have someone who cares.😇
16. Makanika; The day we had a late-night conversation as we gathered together to do a campfire at home.🔥
17. Mbweila; My peaceful moment was when we all went for swimming.💦
Peaceful in the garden at Mushunga:
At Mushunga, the kids had loved these peaceful moments with director, Tonny:
“These responses are from kids who sleep here at the orphanage, dear Abuela. Most of their times they spend with me.” Tonny Mutyekereze
1- Godwin K: “One time, Tonny took me to the park, and we played on the swings together. It was so much fun!”🏃🏾♂️➡️
2- Anitah N: “I remember when Tonny gave me a big hug and made me feel safe.”🫶
3- Albert G: “Tonny read me a bedtime story, and it made me feel happy and sleepy.”📘
4- Ameria A: “I was playing with my friends outside, and Tonny brought us juice and cookies.”🍪
5- Ajuna M: “Tonny took me on a walk, and we saw a beautiful sunset.”🌅
6- Ignitius W: “One morning, Tonny woke me up early, and we went outside to watch the sunrise.”🌄
7- Ashiram S: “I was playing with my friends, and Tonny joined in and played with us.”🏃🏾
8- Tobius A: “Tonny gave me a nice bath and made me feel clean and fresh.”🛁
9- Angella N: “I was drawing a picture, and Tonny praised me and said it was beautiful.”✍🏼
10- Peter T: “One afternoon, Tonny took me to the playground, and we played on the swings and slide.”🛝
11- Rachael T: “Tonny taught me a new game, and we played together.”⛹🏾
12- Caroline T: “I was reading a book, and Tonny sat with me and listened.”📙
13- Elisha T: “Tonny gave me a nice blanket to keep me warm.”🧡
14- Philemon A: “One evening, Tonny sang a song with me.”🎼
15- Blessing A: “I was playing with my friends, and Tonny gave us a snack.”🍫
16- Gift K: “Tonny took me to the market, and we bought some fruit.”🍊
17- Rosette N: “I was helping Tonny with some chores, and he praised me for doing a good job.”👏🏽
18- Alex N: “One morning, Tonny made a a nice breakfast with me for my friends.”🍳
Tonny Mutyekereze, Founder and Director of the Mushunga Community Project:
On June 23, 2024, the kids were asked: “Can you remember a time when there was a problem at home and praying or meditating together helped you all through it?”😇❤️
The kids at Mushunga responded:
1. Godwin K.: “One time my mom was very sick, and we prayed together as a family. She got better, and I was so happy!”😊
2. Anitah N.: “I remember when my little brother fell down and hurt himself. We all prayed together, and he felt better soon.”🙏
3. Albert G.: “When it was raining too much and our house was flooding, we prayed together, and the rain stopped.”💦
4. Ameria A.: “My grandma was very sad because she lost her friend. We meditated together, and she felt a little better.”👩🏾🦳
5. Ajuna M.: “I was scared of a big storm, but we prayed together, and I felt safe.”☔️
6. Ignitius W.: “When my grandma’s house fell down, we prayed together, and she found a new one soon!”🏠
7. Ashiram S.: “I was sick and couldn’t go to school. We prayed together, and I got better soon.”😷
8. Tobius A.: “When our dog was lost, we prayed together, and we found him.”🐶
9. Angella N.: “My grandma and the family members were fighting, but we prayed together, and they hugged each other.”🫂
10. Peter T.: “I was worried about a big test at school. We prayed together, and I did well.”🥇
11. Rachael T.: “When my sister and I were fighting, we meditated together and we apologized to each other.”👯♀️
12. Caroline T.: “I was afraid of the dark, but we prayed together, and I felt brave.”💪🏽
13. Elisha T.: “When our family didn’t have enough food, we prayed together, and our neighbors helped us.”🥘
14. Philemon A.: “I was sad because I missed my friend. We meditated together, and I felt happy again.”😊
15. Blessing A.: “When my mom was stressed, we prayed together, and she smiled again.”👩🏽⚕️
16. Gift K.: “I was excited because we prayed together before my birthday, and I had a great day!”🎉
17. Rosette N.: “When our family was traveling, and we were lost, we prayed together, and we found our way.”🧭
18. Alex N.: “I was worried about a big change in my life. We prayed together, and I felt more confident.”🙏
Praying together through the Red Eye epidemic:
The kids at Savannah Rose recalled these difficult times when praying as a spirit family helped them through. The director, Manyi John, shared their experiences:
I feel peace of mind whenever we gather–to listen to each other answering and sharing their each other’s insights. Knowing that our efforts are appreciated by everyone, and that we share the pain during our struggles–meaning none of us is going through it alone. Here are some moments where praying and meditating together helped us and the children go through it.🙏
When they had red eyes:
Jeremiah: I remember when we all had red eyes and felt sick. We prayed together, and I felt comfort knowing we were united in our faith. It helped me feel less scared.”😌
Victor: “Praying together when we were sick made me feel like God was listening to us. It gave me hope that we would get better soon.”👂🏼
Shalom: “Our prayers helped us stay strong and supportive of each other when we were unwell. I felt like our faith was healing us.”🙌🏾
Christopher: “Meditating together made me feel calm and less worried about my red eyes. It was a reminder that we were all in this together.”😇
As they are seeing progress in purchasing land:
Flowrence: “Now that we are seeing progress in buying the land, our prayers feel even more powerful. It’s like our faith is making things happen.”👏🏽
Benjamin: “Praying together for the land is giving us hope and showing us that our efforts are working. It helps me stay positive and motivated.”👋🏽
Kyatwike: “Meditating about our goal to buy the land brings us closer and strengthens our belief that we will succeed. Seeing progress makes me believe even more.”🌿
Mark: “Our group prayers make me confident that we are doing the right thing, and seeing the progress is like a sign that our prayers are being answered.”🌠
When they needed food:
Desilanta: “When we were short on food, we prayed together and asked for provision. Soon after, we received help, and it felt like a miracle.”🥗
Rihana: “Praying for food made me feel less anxious and more trusting that we would be taken care of. It helped me stay patient.”🙏
Erizetth: “Meditating about our need for food brought us peace and helped us remain hopeful during tough times.”🫂
Salima: “Our prayers for food were a way to express our faith and reliance on God. It brought us closer and made us feel supported.”🥭
Francis: “Whenever we face problems, praying together makes me feel stronger and less alone. It’s like we’re all lifting each other up with our faith.”💪🏽
These moments show how prayer and meditation have helped the children navigate their challenges together, reinforcing their faith and unity.❤️
A peaceful place at home:
On October 1, 2024, the kids were still working with the spiritual values of peace and ingenuity and were asked to reflect on this question: “Have you found a place in your home setting where you can just pull away for a little while and connect with God in peace?”❤️😇❤️
The first to answer were the kids from Mushunga and these were their quiet places at home to connect with God:
*Godwin K.* I go to our room and close the door. I pray and talk to God. It makes me feel happy and quiet.”🙏
*Anitah N.*
“I like sitting under the mango tree in our backyard. It’s shady and peaceful. I can think about God and listen to birds singing.”🌳
*Albert G.*
“My secret place is on the veranda. I watch the sunset and feel God’s love. Sometimes I draw pictures of nature.”🌄
*Ameria A.*
“I go to my Grandparents garden. The flowers are pretty, and it smells nice. I talk to God while watering the plants.”🌸
*Ajuna M.*
“I like hiding in my favorite blanket in our room. It’s cozy, and I feel safe. I pray and dream about God.”🛌
*Ignitius W.*
“Under the big tree near our church. I sit on a rock and listen to the wind. It helps me think about God’s big world.”🌴
*Ashiram S.*
“Our room’s window. I look at the sky, watch clouds, and talk to God. Sometimes I see beautiful rainbows.”🌈
*Tobius A.*
“I sit by the river near our village. The water sounds calm me down. I pray and thank God for nature.”💦
*Angella N.*
“My grandma’s lap. She prays with me and tells stories about God. I feel loved and peaceful.”👩🏾🦳
*Peter T.*
“On top of the hill near our orphanage. I see the whole village and feel God’s presence. It’s like having a big view.”🗻
*Rachael T.*
“My prayer journal. I write to God, and it helps me think about good things. Sometimes I draw pictures.”📘
*Caroline T.*
“At the orphanage room I like to light candles. We light candles, and it feels special. I talk to God with my friends.”🕯️
*Elisha T.*
“Under the stars at night. I look up and feel God’s hug. It’s like having a big blanket.”🌟
*Philemon A.*
“By the chicken coop. I watch them play and think about God’s creatures. It makes me happy.”🐣
*Blessing A.*
“My bed at night. I pray before sleep and feel safe. God watches over me.”😴
*Gift K.*
“Outside when it rains. The sound of raindrops calms me down. I pray and dance in the rain.”🌧️
*Rosette N.*
“Our family altar. We pray together, and it feels united. I love God’s love.”🙏
*Alex N.*
“My favorite book about God’s miracles. I read and imagine. It inspires me to be good.”📗
Feeling peace at home in Mushunga:
Then the kids at Savannah Rose Shared their reflections on ways that they find peace in their homes:
1. Jeremiah:
Jeremiah says he feels most peaceful when he’s out in the garden. He likes sitting under the big tree at the far end where it’s quiet, and he can hear the birds.🕊️
2. Victor:
Victor shared that his other peaceful spot is a small corner of the living room.☺️
3. Shalom:
Shalom said she finds peace in the bedroom, especially when she closes the door.🛌
4. Christopher:
Christopher mentioned that he likes going to the anthill near the playground.🛝
5. Flowrence:
Flowrence finds peace sitting on the porch. She said it’s her quiet place, especially when the sun sets.🌄
6. Benjamin:
Benjamin has said his peaceful spot is the small path leading to our home garden.🌿
7. Desilanta:
Desilanta likes the space close to the playground where there are some bushes.🍀
8. Rihana:
Rihana shared that she loves sitting by the window in the bedroom. The breeze and the sunlight make her feel connected to God.🌅
9. Erizetth:
Erizetth said she enjoys sitting under a mango tree near the compound. It’s her favorite place to reflect and feel God’s presence.🌳
10. Kyatwike:
Kyatwike loves sitting next to the goat pen. He says it’s odd, but the sounds of the animals calm him, and he feels God’s peace in that place.🐐
11. Mark:
Mark has said he finds peace when he sneaks behind the flower gardens.🌸
12. Francis:
Francis likes going to a small stream near our home. He says the sound of the running water makes him feel peaceful, and it’s where he talks to God.💦
13. Salima:
Salima has shared that she finds peace in the kitchen when no one is around. She loves the quiet after meals.🥘
All of them are finding their little sanctuaries of peace and connection with God beautiful.❤️
Feeling peaceful at the Vine of Hope:
The kids found peace and connection with God at home in these places at the Vine of Hope:
1. Mulondo; I like sitting on my bed. That’s where I can concentrate from and connect peacefully with God.🛌
2. Lubale; My place where I feel peace while connecting with God is in the sitting room.😊
3. Luwazo; I sit under the tree and connect peacefully with God.🌳
4. Waiswa; I like being in the shade while connecting to God.🙏
5. Nkugwa; I kneel down on near my bed and I pray to God.🛌
6. Twaha; My peaceful place while connecting to God is in a corner of the house.😌
7. Makanika; I feel more peaceful near the garden while connecting to God.🌸
8. Mbweila; I find peace in my room near the door while connecting to God.🚪
9. Nangobi; I find peace while connecting to God in the sitting room near the door.😊
10. Nabitaka; My place that I feel peace while connecting to God is outside near the shade.🙏
11. Nambi; My favourite place while connecting to God is under my bed. I feel so much comfort and happiness connecting to God through there.🛏️
12. Mwogezi; I hide in my blanket and connect with God through praying.🛌
13. Nakato; My peaceful place while connecting to God is outside on the veranda.🌿
14. Nangobi; My place while connecting to God is in my room on my bed.🛌
15. Nakayima; We have a big tree outside and it’s where I go and connect with God through praying.🌳
16. Nakibuka; My peaceful place while connecting with God is in the shade during daytime.☺️
17. Nbone; I like kneeling near Uncle’s bed while connecting to God.🙏
Small things we love about home:
On March 17, 2025, in keeping with recent reflections on Ghandi’s teaching about how small actions can lead to larger effects—-we asked the kids to shift their focus to the subject of home. So, the question for the week was: What is a small thing about your home that you love and that makes you feel part of something much larger? ❤️😇❤️
Loving home at Mushunga:
Godwin K.: I love our little room because it has my toys. When I play, I feel happy and like I belong to my family.🧸
Anitah N.: I love our family garden because there are pretty flowers. It feels nice to see them grow, and it makes our home beautiful.🌸
Albert G.: I like the kitchen because my grandma cooks yummy food. When we eat together, it feels like a big happy family.🥘
Ameria A.: I love our pet dog. He is fluffy and makes me laugh. He makes our home feel warm and cozy.🐶
Ignitius W.: I love the pictures on the wall. They show our family times, and it makes me feel happy to remember those moments.🎇
Ashiram S.: I like my bed because it’s soft. When I sleep, I feel safe, like I am in a big hug from my home.🛌
Tobius A.: I love the front door because it’s big and strong. It keeps us safe, and I feel happy when I come home.🚪
Peter T.: I love the sound of the rain on the roof. It feels like a cozy blanket, and I love being home when it rains.💧
Rachael T.: I like the books at our home. They tell stories that take me to different places, and I feel like I can go anywhere.📘
Elisha T.: I like the big tree in our yard. It gives us shade, and I feel like it is my friend because I can play under it.🌳
Philemon A.: I love the family hugs. When we hug, it feels warm and makes me feel loved in our home.🫂
Blessing A.: I like the colors of the walls. They are bright and happy, and they make our home feel cheerful.🧡
Gift K.: I love the music we play. It makes me dance, and it feels like our home has a happy song.🎼
Rosette N.: I like the soft rug in the living room. It feels nice to sit on, and we can all gather there to play.🏡
Alex N.: I love the night light in my room. It makes me feel safe when I go to sleep, like a little star watching over me.🕯️
Doing a small thing with love for a home that you love at Savannah Rose:
1. Erizeth: “Sharing meals under the mango tree with everyone brings warmth and togetherness.”🌳
2. Rihanna: “Praying as a family in a circle every night connects me to something bigger than myself.”🙏
3. Kyatwike: “Helping each other during daily routines makes our home feel like a true family.”👥
4. Christopher: “Morning greetings fill the house with joy and a sense of belonging.”🌞
5. Benjamin: “Uncle John is a good especially when I am unhappy. He’s like, “What’s up, Benja?”😚
6. Victor: “Laughter echoes in our home that’s not allowed at neighborhood friends’ homes.”🤣
7. Jeremiah: “The freedom to play football and cards. Bob’s father refuses it, afraid that the kids are going to break the windows.”⚽️
8. Desilanta: “Singing together before bedtime brings peace and unity.”🗣️
9. Mark: “Working side by side on chores makes me feel responsible and valued.”👫
10. Flowrence: “Birthday celebrations make everyone feel special and appreciated.”🎂
11. Francis: “Playing with others, Bob and the rest, creates happiness with friends.”👯
12. Salima: “Storytelling moments connect us and keep our traditions alive.”📚
13. Shalom: “Taking care of each other reminds me that we are one.”🧑🏽🍼
Really Listening:
On June 3, 2025, working with the Home Seraphim, the subject was still that of listening and being listened to–to help the kids develop their skills for practicing tolerance. So, we asked them to pray and reflect on a moment with either their spirit or blood families when they felt really listened to in an important moment. The question was: What did it feel like for you when someone listened when you needed them to?❤️😇❤️
How do you feel when someone really listens to you in your spirit or blood family?
The kids at Mushunga had these feelings when they felt really listened to:
1. Godwin K.: “I felt happy and safe when my teacher listened to me when I was sad about losing my favorite book.”📘
2. Anitah N.: “When my friend listened to me, I felt like they cared about me, and it made me feel better.”☺️
3. Albert G.: “I felt like I could tell them anything, and they would help me. It made me feel strong.”💪🏽
4. Ameria A.: “When my mom listened to me, I felt loved, and it made my heart happy.”🧑🏽🍼
5. Ajuna M.: “I felt like I wasn’t alone, and it made me feel better when I was scared.”👥
6. Ignitius W.: “When my brother listened, I felt like he was my friend, and it made me happy.”👬
7. Ashiram S.: “I felt happy, and it made me want to tell them more about my day.”🤗
8. Tobius A.: “When my teacher listened, I felt important, and it made me feel proud.”👨🏽🏫
9. Angella N.: “I felt like someone cared about what I said, and it made me feel special.”🩵
10. Peter T.: “When my friend listened, I felt like we were best friends, and it made me smile.”🫂
11. Rachael T.: “I felt comforted, and it made me feel like everything would be okay.”💏
12. Caroline T.: “When my mom listened, I felt loved and safe in her arms.”🧑🏽🍼
13. Elisha T.: “I felt happy, and it made me want to listen to others too.”👂🏼
14. Philemon A.: “When my brother listened, I felt like he understood me, and it made me feel better.”👥
15. Blessing A.: “I felt grateful, and it made me want to say thank you.”🙏
16. Gift K.: “When my friend listened, I felt like we were friends forever, and it made me happy.”👯♂️
17. Rosette N.: “I felt special, and it made me feel like I mattered.”💛
18. Alex N.: “When my teacher listened, I felt proud of myself, and it made me want to learn more.”👨🏽🎓
The art of listening and being listened to:
The kids at Savannah Rose express how they felt in a moment they were really listened to:
1. Jeremiah
I felt strong inside that my point is understood.👆🏼
2. Victor
It felt peaceful. Like my heart could rest.☮️
3. Shalom
It made me feel happy and light. Like my tears were being wiped without hands.☺️
4. Christopher
It was safe and couldn’t go into details.✌🏽
5. Flowrence
They didn’t run away or say I was bad—-they just stayed and that made me present.👥
6. Benjamin
I felt important. Like someone saw me and didn’t laugh at me but helped me think clearly.🩵
7. Kyatwike
It made me calm down my temper.😇
8. Mark
It felt like God was there, listening through them. Like a soft hug.🫂
9. Desilanta
I was scared at first, but then I felt like I had a friend. Someone cared about my words.👯♂️
10. Rihana
I felt calm and not angry anymore. I didn’t have to shout or cry. They listened with their heart.❤️
11. Erizetth
I felt like I was not invisible. Like someone opened a door to my feelings.🚪
12. Salima
It felt it was like eating warm food when you’re hungry. I was full in my heart.😊
13. Francis
I felt like dancing because someone finally heard my pain and didn’t say, ‘go away’.💃
Being Listened to:
The kids at the Vine of Hope felt like this when they were really listened to:
1. Mulondo; I feel good when they listened to me because it makes me feel that what I have said is important.👏🏽
2. Lubale; Them listening to me has helped us to achieve something together and it makes me feel good.😊
3. Luwazo; I felt so peaceful, and it helps me to keep looking for something new since I have my friends who listen.☮️
4. Waiswa; When someone listens to me, I feel that my presence is important.🩵
5. Mbweila; I calm down when I tell someone something and they listen.☺️
6. Jean; It brings joy 🤩 and happiness when someone listens to me.
7. Twaha; I feel like what I have said is helpful to someone.😇
8. Nkugwa; I felt so special when someone listens to me though I’m so young.🥰
9. Nakayima; When someone listens to me, I feel our friendship is being so important.👥
10. Nakibuka; I always feel happy and proud of myself.🤗
11. Nangobi Aisha; I responded to my friend with a big smile after him listening to me.😁
12. Nakato; I felt respected when someone listened to me.🙏
13. Nambi; My teacher listened to me, and I felt good and promised myself to do hard work.💪🏽
14. Nabitaka; I don’t feel left in space after someone listens to my point.❤️
15. Nangobi; When someone listened to me it helped me to become more wise.☺️
16. Mwogezi; When someone listens to me it creates peace ✌️ in my mind.
How does life in my home connect me to the larger world?
On August 12, 2025, working with the Home Seraphim, we asked the kids to reflect on this question: “What is a feeling or activity present in your home environment that helps you feel connected to the larger world?”🌍❤️😇
What happens at home that connects me to the larger world?
At Savannah Rose the kids reflected on these things that connected them to the larger world:
Mark
“When I hear us singing together at home, I feel like those songs are carried beyond our walls, joining voices everywhere in the world. It makes me feel part of a bigger family.”🗣️
Francis
“I feel connected to the world when I help in our garden. The soil we touch here is like the same soil everywhere, and I imagine other children planting too.”🌿
Jeremiah
“When we sit and pray together at home, I feel like the whole world is praying with us. The peace inside our house stretches out far, like a wave.”🙏
Shalom
“I feel it when we share food, even the little we have. It reminds me that people everywhere need kindness, and our home can give a piece of that to the world.”🥗
Erizeth
“I feel connected when we laugh together. Laughter feels like sunlight—-it warms everyone, not just us.”🤣
Victor
“For me, it is when we listen to stories about other places. I feel like our home is part of all those places, and that we belong in the same big story.”📘
Desilanta
“I feel connected when I help fetch water and we drink it together. I think about other children drinking water too, and it feels like we are one.”💦
Christopher
“When I play music or beat the drum in our home, I think about rhythms that people everywhere can hear in their hearts. Music makes me feel like the world is dancing with us.”🪘
Kyatwike
“When I see the trees near our home, I feel like they are brothers to trees in other lands. The wind in their leaves whispers of the bigger world.”🌳
Flowrence
“I feel connected when we light a candle and pray. The small light in our home feels joined to lights all over the earth.”🕯️
Rihana
“I feel it when we care for each other—-like when someone is sick and we all help. It reminds me that caring is something families everywhere share.”😇
Benjamin
“I feel connected when I look up at the stars outside our home. They are the same stars shining over other children, and it makes me feel we are together under one sky.”🌟
Salima
“I feel connected when I draw or create something at home. I imagine children in other places drawing too, and our pictures meet in the world of dreams.”✍🏼
I feel connected to the larger world from home when….
The kids at Mushunga felt connected to the larger world when they did these things at home:
Godwin K.: When I play football with my friends at home, I feel like I belong to a big team in the world. 🌍⚽
Anitah N.: When I help to sweep the house, I feel I am part of keeping the world clean. 🧹❤️
Albert G.: When I sing songs at home, I think about people everywhere singing too. 🎶😊
Ameria A.: When I help cook food, I feel close to other children eating with their families. 🍲🌍
Ajuna M.: When I read my books, I feel I can learn about the whole world. 📚✨
Ignitius W.: When I pray at home, I feel I am with God and with many people in the world. 🙏🌎
Ashiram S.: When I laugh with my friends, I feel the world is a happy place. 😄🌍
Tobius A.: When I plant a small tree at home, I feel I am helping the whole earth. 🌱🌏
Angella N.: When I draw pictures, I feel like I can share beauty with the world. 🎨💖
Peter T.: When I fetch water, I feel other children also fetch water, and we are the same. 💧🌍
Rachael T.: When I sleep under the stars, I feel I am close to the big world and heaven. ✨💤
Caroline T.: When I play with dolls, I feel like I am taking care of children everywhere. 🧸🌍
Elisha T.: When I hear the radio at home, I feel connected to people far away. 📻🌎
Philemon A.: When I help carry firewood, I feel strong like other boys in the world. 🪵💪
Blessing A.: When I share food with others, I feel love is big like the world. 🍞❤️🌍
Gift K.: When I learn new words, I feel I can speak to many people in the world. 🗣️🌍
Rosette N.: When I dance at home, I feel joy like children everywhere dancing. 💃🌎
Alex N.: When I see the sun rise, I feel the whole world sees it too, and we are together. 🌅🌍
The things at home that connect me to the larger world: