Uganda & The Gem Foundation: True Beauty Radiates From the Inside Out by Katie Fulton

In October 2017, I had the honor of traveling to Uganda, where I met some of the most beautiful people I've ever known. While I could write a novel on the hospitality of the people of this nation or the natural beauty of the land (unlike any I'd ever seen), instead the beauty I was honored to find radiated from within the gems (special needs beauties) at a children's home where I spent much of my time.

The Gem Foundation believes "each child is created beautifully by God, and in his image. Sure, some of their arms may not work the same as yours, but God loves them the same, and we want them to know that."

The beauty is overwhelming as it beams from the staff who selflessly love and care for the 30 plus gems; the founder and director, Emma, who tirelessly spends countless hours ensuring the highest quality of care is given to the children she loves as her own; and from the gems: Hamza (who is hearing impaired) "danced" as we played music, Bethany (who struggles to traditionally talk) told jokes and contagiously laughed and smiled. Their beauty came not from products and spa time, but from the joy, love and light that radiated from within.

The beauty and love of Christ was breathtaking and inspiring!