Beautiful Names (Cate Alspaugh)

Cate at Play

This morning, I was walking to watch the soccer game that was being administrated by Compassion International with fifteen of my newest friends around me when I saw something on my leg.  Four names were written on my calf in blue pen: Kizza, Winnie, Sarah, and Catey, the name that they call me. At first glance, I was shocked because I literally had no recollection of anyone writing on my calf. But then I was excited.

Because these were the names of the children that I have only known for 24 hours, but I love like I have known them for my whole life. These, along with Gavin, Prissy, Peace, Charity, Moses, Joseph, Yvette, Nathasha, and Gloria, are the names of the kids that fall asleep in my arms, refuse to let go of my hands, tell me they love me, sneak tomatoes while I’m cooking, and braid my hair whenever they can reach it.  I’m refusing to let myself think of Friday, when I have to be separated from these beautiful names and faces. I’m falling in love with Uganda and am so thankful for God’s presence in the hearts of these children.

Much love to my amazing and supportive parents and beautiful sisters and friends! I miss you all!

Cate Alspaugh