We are happy
In the vast, sun-baked plains of northern Uganda lives a tribe known as the Karamojongs—a people whose customs have remained steadfast despite the winds of modern change. True to their ancestral traditions, they eschew modern clothing, choosing instead to remain unclothed as a living testament to their heritage. Their daily sustenance is as humble as it is natural: they forage for wild fruits in the wild, relying on nature’s bounty rather than modern agriculture or commerce. Although their dwellings are scattered across the rugged landscape, they deliberately build their houses close together, a visible sign of security and communal trust.
Life among the Karamojongs is defined by simplicity and hard work. The tribe’s women are particularly noted for their industrious spirit—they bear the bulk of the labor by constructing modest, grass-thatched, and muddy houses. These dwellings, though rudimentary, are built with care and serve as both shelter and a symbol of unity in the face of adversity. While the men contribute in their own ways, it is the tireless efforts of the women that underscore the tribe’s resilience, as they work ceaselessly to ensure that every home stands strong against the harsh elements.
A transformative day arrived when the tribe encountered JesusFedMe (JFM) for the very first time. To the Karamojongs, who had lived a life defined solely by the rhythms of nature, the arrival of JFM brought a cascade of wonder and novelty. The visitors offered nourishing food and an array of delightful surprises—snacks that sparked delight in the children’s eyes, colorful booklets designed just for them, and free gifts that seemed almost magical. For a community unaccustomed to such tokens of kindness, this event opened a window into a world of generosity and care.
Amid this heartwarming encounter stood a remarkable figure: a 90-year-old named John. With decades of life etched into his kind eyes, John was pivotal in distributing food and extending warm, personal care to each tribe member. His gentle manner and unwavering commitment to service resonated deeply with the Karamojongs, bridging the gap between two very different worlds. Through his actions, the people saw that compassion transcends age, background, and tradition—a living example that hope and kindness can flourish even in the most modest of circumstances.
The behavior of the Karamojongs reflects a delicate balance of caution and curiosity. Rooted in a tradition of self-reliance, they greet new experiences with measured wariness, yet the generous offerings from JFM sparked a tentative excitement among them. Their clustered homes, built to safeguard against external threats, mirror the tight bonds of a community that has always relied on collective strength. In that moment of first contact, as they savored unfamiliar tastes and marveled at thoughtful gifts, the Karamojongs exhibited an openness to change—a quiet acknowledgment that even time-honored ways can embrace the promise of a more compassionate future.
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