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From the very first moment we arrived at Bethany, we knew it was going to be an amazing trip. Surrounded by smiling children from the moment we clambered out of the Land Rover, to 4am Monday morning two weeks later - every second was memorable. We quickly settled into a routine of waking early, morning meeting, 8 hours of teaching and then relaxing with a game of cricket or rounders when the heat had cooled enough to go outside. Evenings were my favourite; a hearty meal of rice and beans (or spinach) followed by evening meeting, where voices rang out in songs of prayer and the smallest children argued with the oldest over the issues of the day.
I definitely learnt a lot during my time at Bethany, and hopefully the children in standard 7 did too, as Nicholas, Leah and I attempted to teach them the details of teeth, the circulatory system, angles, and even a little bit of English grammar. Although they live a very simple life and have nothing in the way of toys or games to play with, the children are always happy, always smiling, always eager to learn or play, or simply sit and hug.
The Bethany Family is just that - a family. After hearing about it at church for so many years, to actually travel to Tanzania and see it for myself was an indescribable experience. The brilliant work that everyone involved in the project does is so worthwhile and really makes a difference in these childrens' lives. Who could have imagined that a girl living in an isolated village in the Serengeti 4 years ago, is now ready to start a degree and is learning to drive in England! Without Bethany, these children would have no family, no home, and no love. I, and I know I'm not alone, cannot wait to return as soon as possible - so roll on next Summer!
Rachal Adamson
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