As a Volunteer with CorpsAfrica/Kenya, I’ve had the unique opportunity to live in the rural village of Kiriene. Coming from a more urban environment has been a humbling and eye-opening experience. One of the most striking things I’ve learned here is the people’s profound connection with their land and the changing seasons. The rhythm of life in Kiriene is undeniably tied to the seasons—something that was immediately evident when I first arrived.
When I first came to Kiriene, the environment was dry, with the land showing harsh signs of drought. The parched and cracked soil seemed to echo the struggles of the people who depend on it. Water was scarce, and the farms, which are the lifeblood of this community, were unable to yield much. The people here have always learned to endure such times, but they also wait eagerly for the rains, knowing that they are the key to survival.
Now, as we move into the rainy season, the transformation in the environment is nothing short of miraculous. The dry, barren land has come alive, and there is a noticeable change in the air. The rain brings with it hope, not just for the crops, but for the entire village. The farmers, whose sweat and labor are constantly at the mercy of the weather, rejoice as their fields begin to flourish. The rain truly is a blessing, and in Kiriene, it is celebrated as the life force that ensures food security and prosperity. It’s incredible to witness the difference rain makes—not just in the physical environment but in the spirit of the people here.
What’s most remarkable to me, however, is the strong sense of family and unity that permeates life here in Kiriene. People live in large, close-knit families. This sense of togetherness is not merely about living under one roof but about mutual care, respect, and understanding. The elderly are treated with the utmost respect, and their wisdom is deeply valued. There is an innate sense of gratitude and deference for the older generations, as they are seen as the custodians of knowledge and culture.
As a Volunteer, I’ve had the privilege of observing and being a part of communal activities, and I’ve learned so much about the importance of family unity. Here, families are not just blood relatives; they are the backbone of the community. There’s a collective understanding that together, they can face any challenge—be it the dry spells or the times when things are abundant. This unity is essential, especially in difficult times when people must support one another to ensure the survival of their farms and the well-being of their loved ones.
The value of family unity goes beyond mere survival—it’s a source of strength and resilience. When a family works together to cultivate their land, it’s not just the crops that thrive, but the bonds between individuals. The experience of working side by side, whether planting seeds or gathering harvest, creates a sense of belonging and shared purpose.
I have learned so much from the people of Kiriene. Their patience, resilience, and deep-rooted respect for one another are qualities I’ve come to admire and strive to emulate in my own life. Living here has reminded me of the importance of family—not just as a unit for survival but as the heart of a community. And in this village, it’s clear that the real gold is not in the land alone but in the strength of the relationships that hold it all together.
As the rains continue to nourish the land, I am reminded of how intertwined the seasons are with life here. The changing weather reflects the cycle of hope, hard work, and patience. For the people of Kiriene, each season is a reminder of life’s rhythms—sometimes harsh, sometimes bountiful—but always cyclical and full of promise. This understanding has made me appreciate the beauty in life’s natural cycles, as well as the strength of family and community that helps carry everyone through.
This village, with its strong bonds and unshakable respect for the land and its people, has taught me more than I could ever express. As I continue my journey here, I know that the lessons I have learned about family, resilience, and the changing seasons will stay with me for a lifetime.
