Two months after receiving the results from a DNA test telling me I was 29% Congolese, I stepped off the plane in Kinshasa. I felt such a sense of belonging and pride. Returning back to my family’s place of origin meant more to me than anyone could imagine.
My time in the Congo was one of the most heartfelt experiences I have ever had. Every person that I encountered was so kind and loving. Each morning, I was warmly greeted by the children with huge smiles and eyes beaming with joy and gratitude.
Later in the day, as I walked through the Theresa’s House compound, I witnessed the mamas cooking with only the simplest of ingredients like onions, garlic, and tomatoes. But when combined, they made a delicious meal that was devoured by all.
Every meal was prepared with such love. It felt like I had stepped back in time to my grandmother’s home in the South, watching her and my aunts prepare Sunday dinner: rolling and chopping up the greens, shucking the peas, and frying the chicken until it was crisp. I felt like a child again as we all played outside under the hot summer sun.
I had originally gone to the Congo to teach a class on self-care including manicures, pedicures, facials, and hair care. The lessons were all well-received, but in the end, God had prepared a special gift just for me. He took me home and I will always be thankful for the blessing I was given.
