A Lesson in Unconditional Love

Lessons in Love and Inclusion: A Journey of Hope in Rwanda

Kenny’s Gift — A Lesson in Unconditional Love

There are moments in life that stop you in your tracks—moments that humble you, soften you, and remind you of the deeper truths we often overlook. One of those moments came to me through Kenny, a young boy with Down syndrome.

Kenny and his classmates had come to our class as part of a practicum experience for local teachers learning how to work with children with mental disabilities. The idea was simple: let the teachers practice what they were learning in real time, with real children. But what happened was far more profound than any lesson plan could have predicted.

As we settled into the classroom, one of Kenny’s teachers approached me and said, “Kenny wants you to sit beside him. He likes you.” I walked over and sat next to him, and Kenny’s face lit up with pure, radiant joy. He turned to me, and in his broken English, said, “I love you.”

It was a simple sentence. But it carried the weight of something eternal.

Kenny didn’t love me because of anything I had done. He didn’t love me for what I could offer him, or for any status I held. He loved me just because I was me. No conditions. No expectations. Just love.

In that moment, I was reminded of God’s love—unconditional, unwavering, and freely given. Kenny’s love was a mirror of that divine grace. It didn’t ask for credentials or accomplishments. It simply existed. And it was beautiful.

We live in a world that often demands performance and perfection. We’re taught to earn love, to prove our worth, to measure ourselves against impossible standards. But Kenny reminded me that being seen and loved for who you are is the greatest gift of all.

Children like Kenny have so much to teach us. Their hearts are open. Their acceptance is complete. Their love is pure. If we’re willing to listen, to sit beside them, and to learn from them, we might just discover what it truly means to love.

This journey in Rwanda is about education, yes—but more than that, it’s about transformation. And sometimes, the most powerful lessons come from the smallest voices.

When was the last time you felt truly accepted—just for being you? What impact did that have on your sense of worth or belonging?

Share your story.If Kenny’s gift reminded you of someone who loved you unconditionally, we’d love to hear about it. Leave a comment below or tag us on social media with #KennyTaughtMe.