Meeting Douglas

Hello Friends:

I first met Douglas the day we were searching for an apartment here in Kampala. We drove up and asked to view a two bedroom place. The receptionist (Harriet) directed us to Douglas who graciously showed us this dwelling. His English was very clear, and he mentioned that his mother lives in the States, she resides in California. He was quick to point out all of the amenities, and showed us our balcony view of the pool, and also mentioned that each room has air conditioning. However, at this time, we continued our apartment search, because this place was (we thought, and is!) too expensive.

After searching and comparing prices and location, we ended up back at the "Prestige Apartments", where once again we were greeted by Douglas.

We quickly got settled into our apartment, though it did smell a bit funny. We needed to take a grocery store run to buy food and room freshener, and a few other odds and ends.

Douglas and Mr. Hassan (we are not too sure of Hassan's job, but he's a nice man) made us feel welcome and secure. Both men were quick to be at our beck and call, locating us taxis, walking us to the local Indian market, taking us to the bank, and making sure we were satisfied with our apartment.

One evening after work, Douglas came over for a visit. (This, we are finding is not unusual for Ugandan culture, and we feel honored to have had many come by). He talked to us for a while, telling us his story. His mother left he and his brother at an early age, so he was raised by his father. At the age of fifteen, his father died, and then he was supported by a family friend. This friend paid for his education (through "Senior 6" equivalent to our high school graduate), and then sent him into the world with his older brother to fend for themselves. Though his life has not been easy, he has such an appreciation for what he does have, and hope for a good future.

Douglas told a story of how it is so easy to envy other peoples things... like shoes for example. He said it would be so cool to have a nice new pair of shoes...Nikes or maybe a pair of Pumas...in his eyes, I see him lost for a moment in his own dream. Then he says resolutely, "but when I feel sorry for myself and think why can't I have those shoes, I see a man without feet. It brings me back, to be thankful for what I do have." This is Douglas. He is a young man wise beyond his years. He has told us numerous stories, most are funny, some are of how humble he feels, and some stories are very "proverb-esk".

For this 20 year old young man, I pray for a safe and prosperous future. I am a better man because of knowing you, Douglas.


Jerry