Upendo Ministries

July 10th, 2025

As I ride down the street, the sun setting and the Tanzanian breeze rushing in through the open window, tears fill my eyes. I feel safe. I feel secure. I feel filled.

This morning, we flew from Doha to Dar Es Salaam, and then continued on to Mbeya. My heart had already grown full in Dar. I made so many Kiswahili friends—beautiful connections that left me overflowing with joy. While we were boarding our flight to Mbeya, some of the girls told me that when I speak Kiswahili, I change. They said my personality comes out, like I’m truly myself. Hearing that meant so much to me.

When we landed in Mbeya and stepped off the plane, several of us girls started crying. The view was breathtaking, and even more than that—I could feel God’s presence all around me.

We met our bus driver and somehow managed to pack all 21 carry-ons inside. Then we climbed in, our backpacks on our laps, and started our journey with the wind in our faces and the sun melting into the horizon. As we passed by children playing football on the roadside, I was overwhelmed again by the calling God has placed on my life.

Though we are not in Kenya, the cultures are nearly identical—and the language is the same. It’s hard to explain, but I feel safe and secure here, like I’m supposed to be here. Like God is whispering, “This is where I’ve led you.” I can feel His hand protecting me.

We stopped at a community center where food had been lovingly prepared for us. The people are so precious, their kindness so real. It’s past 8:30 p.m. now, and we’ll be arriving in Matema around midnight. The drive through these dark streets is quiet, peaceful, sacred.

And here I am—overwhelmed by the goodness of God.

Vanessa