NEHEMIAH OTIENO
“Time is running” is a phrase that’s commonly used in Kenya. And so it is.....we would like to feature as many of our Kajulu church members as we can and if I don’t get at it, they won’t all get done. Each one has an interesting story. This week's feature will be NehemiahOtieno.
Nehemiah is an interesting brother put together in a small, handicapped body with a brilliant mind. He was stricken with polio at one year of age and has since dealt with the crippling affects of the disease. Born in 1967, he was the son of the elder wife of his father. He had 2 brothers and 2 sisters. Both brothers have passed away; one being struck by lightening. Also one sister is gone and the only remaining is one sister. His parents are also gone. Since his father had 2 wives he also has several half brothers and sisters. They all lived together in a “dala”, in a circular compound setting. But Nehemiah is quite alone in this world......in a physical sense.
Nehemiah
When asked what life was like growing up, Nehemiah described it as very difficult. With his handicap, he was frequently mocked. Other children would bark at him, calling him a “dog”. School was difficult and since he was limited physically, he thrust himself into his booklearning. There wasn’t enough money to finish high school; but he’s knowledgeable of the world in general and has a good grasp of the English language. His father loved the second wife better than his mother, making it even harder for him as the child of “unloved Leah”. The co-wife was even given a job and made some money which made life easier for them. This left Nehemiah’s mother to care for ALL the children while the other wife worked. Nehemiah sadly stated she finally resorted to alcohol and died a drunkard. Eventually, Nehemiah found his way to Kisumu and lives in a small lean-to beside a school.
“Time is running” is a phrase that’s commonly used in Kenya. And so it is.....we would like to feature as many of our Kajulu church members as we can and if I don’t get at it, they won’t all get done. Each one has an interesting story. This week's feature will be NehemiahOtieno.
Nehemiah is an interesting brother put together in a small, handicapped body with a brilliant mind. He was stricken with polio at one year of age and has since dealt with the crippling affects of the disease. Born in 1967, he was the son of the elder wife of his father. He had 2 brothers and 2 sisters. Both brothers have passed away; one being struck by lightening. Also one sister is gone and the only remaining is one sister. His parents are also gone. Since his father had 2 wives he also has several half brothers and sisters. They all lived together in a “dala”, in a circular compound setting. But Nehemiah is quite alone in this world......in a physical sense.
Nehemiah
When asked what life was like growing up, Nehemiah described it as very difficult. With his handicap, he was frequently mocked. Other children would bark at him, calling him a “dog”. School was difficult and since he was limited physically, he thrust himself into his booklearning. There wasn’t enough money to finish high school; but he’s knowledgeable of the world in general and has a good grasp of the English language. His father loved the second wife better than his mother, making it even harder for him as the child of “unloved Leah”. The co-wife was even given a job and made some money which made life easier for them. This left Nehemiah’s mother to care for ALL the children while the other wife worked. Nehemiah sadly stated she finally resorted to alcohol and died a drunkard. Eventually, Nehemiah found his way to Kisumu and lives in a small lean-to beside a school.
Sam and Nehemiah having lunch at church between interviews
Tom Ogema has an office beside the school and became acquainted with Nehemiah. He invited Nehemiah to come with them and visit the CBF church. Nehemiah felt love and acceptance there and discovered this is what he lacks in his life. In 2005, he became a member and has since been quite useful in the church. He’s had some tough lessons to learn but has handled them patiently. He is occasionally used as interpreter and is currently the song leader. He has taught Sunday School in the past and also taught a Luo class to new missionaries. He has done some painting, drawing and architect work. We wish there could be more work for him, but it’s similar to waiting at the ‘pool of Siloam’; others get there first.
On our way to church, we pick up Nehemiah where he lives in town. When the children are along for Bible Study, he loves to hear them sing in the van as we travel. They have a certain amount of laughing and bantering back and forth. At 41, he gets very lonely and enjoys these social times. Because of his handicap, he cannot get a job to support himself and some times gets very hungry. At times, Sam and I also take him along as interpreter for interviews. In appreciation for his help, we’ll slip him a banana or loaf of bread. It’s a blessing for us to know Nehemiah.
Everyone is speaking of weather, so we will too. It seems to be the topic world wide. Snow, snow and heaps of snow. Typically in Kenya, it’s very hot and dry for this time of year. It continues to rain keeping everything lush and green and mosquitoes swarming. Church attendance is down abit because of mud and malaria.
Our family appreciates many of you remembering us during the Christmas season. We received numerous cards and family photos. They are still coming and we don't mind at all. Having you think of us means so much more since we're on the missionfield. Why?...we don't know..... it's one of those unexplainables.
May you be blessed!
Sam and Mattie and family
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