My first day in Ugandan criminal court as a witness.

I know you all want me to tell you the full story of what happened in court yesterday. I do have the full account written down.

Phiona said, “I felt like my heart was almost out of the cage” when she was being pushed by the defense lawyer. That’s how I feel about letting out the story of what occurred in court. But I first have to see what I am allowed to share. I probably (rolling my eyes) should seek permission first to write freely.

That’s like having a new beautiful shoe and stepping in a wad of gum on the street. It’s going to bother me every time I wear that shoe. I don’t like being censored and I don’t like having to control speaking my mind and the truth in writing. But I didn’t come all this way to blurt and then have our case dismissed.

Here’s what I can tell you and these are the simple facts:

• Being in the same room with Adams is tense and uncomfortable
• Abdul looked great in a suit
• Phiona is so beautiful that Johnmary couldn’t help but declare his love for her in front of us all, but she’s too much trouble for him. She’s a modern woman, more American than Ugandan for sure. She would never put up with being treated as women here often are.
• Pastor James dresses up so nice he looked as good as the lawyer.
• Adams plead not guilty to the charges
• His lawyer failed to get copies of our case and asked for weeks to prepare. Denied. He got an hour and a half. So we waited.
• Phiona testified first, and then was cross examined and it was really hard on her but she’s got as much fight in her as I do. She loves those kids!
• Any witness who will testify cannot hear the testimony of the witness before them. So while she was on the stand I had to wait out in the hall for almost three hours…standing…sigh
• They had a two hour lunch. We waited some more.
• Finally I gave my testimony.
• The defense lawyer began to cross examine me and we got about three of his questions in when the judge asked us to stop for the day and pick up in the morning. The defense lawyer isn’t available for a few days.
• So we will return next Tuesday to finish my cross examination.

Don’t be afraid for I am with you. Don’t be discouraged for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand.   Isaiah 41:10

 

It was a full day. I focused on the promises in the bible when I was fearful.  I felt the full weight of those praying for me because I was strong and remained emotionally stable, even cheerful. I did not lose my mind as my cross exam was being twisted. I’m not sure how God manages to take a little woman with flaws, fears and no experience and turn her into the person I am in these situations.

God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love and self-discipline. 2Tim 1:7

 It is somewhat ironic that my dog breed of choice is a bulldog. They are rather ugly on the outside, and I don’t’ think of myself as ugly. But on the inside, my sweet lucy is not mean and aggressive, she is the most loving, playful obedient and happy creature I’ve ever known. But if you come near our property and she thinks you might be a threat to those she loves, she will eat you alive. I think grown men have wet themselves encountering her.  It is fair to say I am just like Lucy on the inside. And I gave everyone a glimpse of my inner bulldog yesterday.  So be careful if you want to come near those I love.

***again, I am trying to add photos but the internet connection is prohibitive. As soon as I can manage it I will!!! You know my favorite part of blogging is sharing my photos.

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