With full bellies, so began our breezy van ride through the busy streets of a Saturday in Mombasa to head towards our accommodation at the wonderful Mama Kamoti’s. *Fun Fact* Our driver’s “conductor” Nixon, taught us that Kenyans work a half day on Saturdays, hence the (terrifying) traffic we were amongst. The drive up the dirt road through the humble mud homes brought us to our hosts beautiful home where we briefly had a very warm reunion with the Kamoti family. Hugs were given in abundance and to all with arms! We swiftly offloaded our supplies and bags, donned our new “team Grant Victor Cares” soccer uniform and headed to our very important football tournament that we were “very” confident we would win 
A tradition sprung up 3 years ago when the Grant Victor Cares team was driving back to Mama Kamoti’s after a very long day in the villages when the spotted a group of women playing soccer on the dirt fields just off the road. The team decided they needed to pull over and meet these athletes and contribute a new ball for their games, and the rest, they say, is history. Every year since, the GV Team visits these women and their families in the villages and plays a game with them- our 3 pm match was one for the history books- the Black Lions vs The Simba Weupe! (The White Lions) After rigorous warmups, the match began. We are so honored to have met with them again this year and once again be immersed in their unyielding kindness and joy. The feeling of stepping out of the van and having all the children reach for your hand will truly sweep you off your feet. The whole village came out to watch the match and it was well fought on both sides! Captains Zach and Riley led our team to an exhilarating “victory” in that victory means, no one twisted an ankle and we all 100% had a great time under their leadership. We tied 3-3 before the timer got us and we all celebrated each other’s efforts that a thousand hugs and high fives for every hand within reach. They honored us with coconuts to drink from and a song and dance as we walked back to the van to head home.
The group is overcome with gratitude for the Kenyan people and their outlook on life- to see the genuine heart and kindness of them and their children makes you reflect on all that we have and what brings us real joy. It’s the simple things in life that stick with you the most and speak to the deepest depths of the soul of a person. A 32 tooth smile. A pick-up soccer match even if you’ve never played a day in your life. A child coming up from behind you and taking your hand and saying they hope you are having a good day. These are the moments and feelings we will cherish and we can’t wait for tomorrow’s adventure at the Church and to begin the mural painting!
Love,
The GV 2024 Service Team
