After 30 years I have returned to Africa and once again been inspired and humbled by the graciousness and resilience of the people; the richness and beauty of the land. Serenaded at night by a host of crickets and by day by a host of exotic birds, we are closing in on the end of our time here, simply awaiting the judge’s ruling in the morning to allow the full adoption of Mark by daughter Tandela.

Here in Soroti, with a caring community of Christians (and Muslims more than elsewhere in Uganda) we have shared a little in their life and struggles; enough to have learned how blessed we are in the West and how much we owe Africa.

My work with the Gulu school and health center (helping with fundraising) for Child is Innocent, will keep me connected as well.

The heat of the day is just lifting and the sky taking on the orange-red hue I remember, perhaps reflecting the deep red soil. We have a host of moving memories (from joint-jarring bus rides across the north to refreshing swims in Mbale resort hotel) and especailly the people, some of whom we’ll stay in touch with.

We hear the odd Christmas carol here but nothing like at home. A few street shops have speakers which throb with reggae – including South African Lucky Dube – mostly. Still the true Christmas spirit of care and new birth is everywhere and I send along with my African mentors my wishes for this holy Season.