Teshome, Kyle and Colin

Teshome is Kyle's Compassion child that he was able to visit the third day he was in Ethiopia. Teshome lives in Dukem with his mother and two little sisters. His father has died, and Teshome earns money to help support his mothers and sisters by driving a taxi after school every day. His taxi is a buggy and a horse named Colin. Kyle was given the honor of naming Teshome's horse, and so he named him after another 17 year-old boy, Colin. Tehsome was very shy, and only warmed up when he took Kyle out to see and name the horse. Then, Kyle was able to drive through the streets of Dukem in the buggy as Colin led the way. It was an awesome visit, and Kyle was able to see all that Compassion - through the funds of sponsors - is able to provide the children. He was able to connect the program with the child, and see how it all works together to make life a little better for the kids in Dukem.

Kyle gave Teshome a soccer ball, a watch, an OU t-shirt, and of course Crocs for everyone. Teshome's mother had set out popcorn, bread and other snacks for Kyle, and then they enjoyed the traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony. We thought Teshome, at age 17 was probably about to graduate, and exit the Compassion program. But unfortunately the education system in Ethiopia is quite awful, and since Teshome only entered the program a year ago, he is very behind in school. He is only in the seventh grade, so he will be in the program for at least six more years. He's a great kid, and works very hard to help support his family. Our prayers for Teshome will take on new meaning after Kyle's visit. It's amazing what a difference it makes to be face to face with a child who you have only known in letters and photos. I hope that someday all of our family will have the privilege to meet Teshome and his family...and Colin.