Clothing Drive Update

I have been meaning to put up an update about the clothing drive for children in Rwanda and Nigeria. A few weeks ago, I got an email saying that the first batch of clothes had arrived and how happy they were to have received them. In true African tradition, it was filled with prayers and well-wishes for all those who had helped. It was so sweet, so touching that I decided that I would continue the drive through the end of the year.

Since then, I’ve asked for family and friends to donate more clothes, toys, books, blankets, bottles, and all things kid-related. I have already received quite a bit for the next go-round. It’s all been so great. I am amazed at how generous people are. One co-worker who takes public transportation to work dragged two heavy bags from the train station all in the name of helping people she doesn’t know. It was really cool. As I dragged the bags to my car at the end of the day, I was in plain awe of her dedication.

Of course there has also been the down-side of people not fulfilling their promises. Actually, that’s not so bad. I love that they are interested enough to say they’ll do something. We all lead very busy lives so I understand if they are not able to get to it. What wasn’t too cool was not getting any kind of reaction from folks that you think would want to help. You know, getting a blank stare. Like, whatever. I am not an overly sensitive person but that kinda hurt for whatever reason.

Forget that. This post was really to say that it worked! I am thrilled that the “eagle has landed”. I am ecstatic at how well-received the clothing drive has been. Despite all my initial worries, it has gone well. The clothes were not ‘stolen’ or sold on the black market like some people said they would. They got to their final destination intact and that gives me hope for the other batches en route.

Totally Uninspired

I'm at this stage in my life where I need to take concrete steps to make my life more meaningful. That sounds so cliche but I need to do something MORE with my life. I have tons of ideas but I haven't been inspired to take the next step. My mind's been working overtime and there's been pressure from DH to do SOMETHING already but yet nothing. Maybe I need to take a trip to home country to get some motivation. It always helps spur me into action or at least gets my creative juices flowing.

Here's one idea I have floating around - I think I may have even blogged about my experience visiting the Motherless Babies Home in Lekki and seeing a little boy dressed in little girl clothing. I want to organize a clothing drive specifically for kids. I have tried to talk to my friends about this but somehow the conversation turns back to them/us: Em, what if I have another baby? It's been five years but you never know? So when next are we taking a trip? We need to take a vacation! Huh? I just told you about these kids needing clothes and that's what you have to say?

I can't really blame anyone for not seeing my vision. It's my deal not theirs. Also, I have been a total slacker. It has been a while since I took that trip but haven't done too much since then. I need to investigate this further - Is it okay to give little kids used clothes? I could always ask for new clothing but don't know that I can go far with that. It might be best to start with what people don't want and gradually move up. What about the jazz issue? I have heard that some Naija people don't like to give away their used clothes for fear that those that receive them will harm them with black magic. Also, how do I get the clothes there if I do a drive here? It can get expensive mailing these things - I know from experience. I can only pay for so much shipping. I think about all these issues and hit the brakes.

Well, if it doesn't work out in Nigeria, what about Rwanda? Maybe I need to concentrate on Rwanda. I know for a fact that they appreciate the clothes. I've given away new and used items from Blu's layette and have been told how appreciative the new mothers over there are. I feel I should do more than just that but I'm stuck - totally uninspired. Maybe I need to find someone who shares this passion and take this one step further.