Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

The Olympic torch is shining across the world. So far it has experienced the Gift of Dreams in Greece, the Gift of Learning in Turkey, the Gift of Love in Paris, the Gift of Money in the United States, and the Gift of Hope in Argentina.

This month the torch is brought to Dar es Salaam, Tanzania; giving light to the Gift of Friends.

You have most likely heard of Tanzania in association with their challenges to fight the epidemics of Malaria and HIV/AIDS. You might expect these seemingly insurmountable problems to wreak havoc with the culture, and they do, yet communities plagued with these problems are characterized more by their willingness to help others in need than they are hopelessness.

Relationships are central to Tanzanian social and recreational life. Visiting friends and family for joyous or sorrowful occasions is given such high priority that people will endure the inconveniences of the relatively undeveloped transportation system, traveling for days if necessary.

The deep friendships of the Tanzanian people harkens to the steadfast relationship between David and Jonathan. Though they were forced to part ways, the two men understood the bond they had with the Lord would unite them and their descendants.

“Then they kissed each other and wept together—but David wept the most. Jonathan said to David, ‘Go in peace, for we have sworn friendship with each other in the name of the Lord saying, “The Lord is witness between you and me, and between your descendants and my descendants forever.”’

After your Lord, who would you turn to in the midst of crisis? What elements of that relationship can you talk about and model for your grandchildren, encouraging them to form strong, healthy, lasting friendships in their lives?

You have the opportunity to be a catalyst in the formation of deep friendships today! There are many children in this country who have parents deployed in Iraq and Afghanistan. You can send them (and a set of their grandparents) to a special CGN GrandCamp designed specifically for military kids. This camp will foster an environment where children will be able to connect with others who understand their difficult situation, their fears, and their dreams.

Click here to make a donation to send a kid to camp for just $350!