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Blue Skies and Clouds
December 2011
I usually begin with a title and a theme and this time I have neither!
Much has happened since I last wrote, I may narrate it factually or with
the myriad of emotions I experienced during this period.
It's Hogmanay (New Years Eve), I'm in Scotland and I'm struck by the
privilege/task to write about my life. I was in Portree, Isle of Skye at
Christmas and folk there were commenting on my article and photos in the
Monthly Record church magazine, it's often strange for me to see that, and
hear folk's comments - thankfully they are usually very pleasant (though
I'm open to helpful comments too!). I suppose I'm usually in Africa when
these articles are circulating. I appreciate all the interest and support
from these communications, I guess I'm just not sure what to say about them,
after they're written - if I ever reread them, I don't even think it's me
that's written them, just like when I see photos, or even not recognising
my recorded voice!
AIM asked me to be involved in CSPN (Child Safety and Protection Network -
www.childsafetyprotectionnetwork.org), this is a network of global
Christian mission organisations who have gathered together to address
the important issues related to child protection and safety. I have been
asked to be part of small teams who will travel at times to assist if/when
concerns are raised. Sadly child abuse is a global issue and we need to be
proactive in more teaching, education, and awareness to endeavour to protect
children in all circumstances, within their homes, schools, communities and
churches.
Over the years working with children I have gained some experience in
this area, and though it is a difficult and often draining challenge, I
sincerely count it a privilege to assist children in this difficult time.
I spoke with DP, AIM and my home church and it was agreed that I would
try and incorporate this new role within my current ministry. The first
part of this was to attend a training conference, in Malaysia! My enthusiasm
paled leading up to my departure as I had so much work in Uganda, and also
the flights Uganda - Kenya - Thailand (floods!) - Kuala Lumpar (Malaysia) -
Penang (Malaysia) were all tight changeovers and therefore stressful in an
area and languages I am not familiar with. Landing in Penang was wonderful,
and I clicked into loving this new adventure in this new part of the world.
I have to pinch myself that this was real! The week-long conference was
excellent, about 35 people from various countries, organisations and ministries
gathered for this training - partly theoretical with research and statistics,
also practical with role playing and useful tools to utilise in scenarios of
interviews and discussions. As is often the case the meal times were a great
encouragement too, discovering new friendships and hearing of challenges and
blessings in other countries - I must mention the spectacular cuisine that
Malaysia is renowned for, now legendary to my taste buds!
Follow the link here to read the rest of Marsali's latest
newsletter (PDF file).
WITH MUCH LOVE AND JOY,
MARSALI
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