Kyle in Dukem, Ethiopia - A Visit with Teshome

You're just now getting up on Friday and here we are winding down what was a fabulous day. Getting to spend the day with Teshome was a real treat. He is extremely shy, but was so happy. After visiting the Compassion school and handing out candy to his friends, we went back to his humble house. His mother, younger sister and little brother live with his relatives in a tiny, but hospitable house. They had simple snacks, bread and fruit for us. The house was filled with incense and we enjoyed a coffee ceremony. It was a true highlight to present Teshome with his gifts. I was able to give crocs to him, his mother, his sister and baby brother. Yes, I have pictures. The absolute most amazing thing and the one thing that brought Teshome out of his shell was his horse. With the extra money that we've sent to Teshome, he was able to buy a horse (which was clearly well cared for and healthy) and a carriage. With that investment he operates an after school business as a taxi driver. He makes good money (about 200 bir/week). That allows him to provide a great deal of support for his family. He reserved the honor of naming the horse to me. I chose the name Colin. Teshome had already heard about Colin and was honored to give his horse that name. He insisted on giving me a ride. So, together we rode down the dirt streets of Dukem with Colin pulling us. You can let Colin know that Colin the horse took a nice dump on my duffel bag, but it cleaned off easily. Teshome let me drive and insisted that we see Colin gallop at high speed. At one point the Compassion guide joined us on the ride. Teshome told him "I am so happy this day." Then, he asked me whether I was happy? You know the answer.