I left my camera at home, and turned off and turned in my phone at the beginning of the two weeks. While I did not capture even a portion of what I experienced, I believe I was more present when not behind the camera lens.
What touched...and filled my heart in Zambia
The joy and hope amidst poverty, illness, and
The children...these faces (PC: Janel)
I loved the welcome when we drove up in the big army truck and the kids expectantly came running...
Then I got a little scared when they started jumping on me and I thought I was going to fall over...
The program at the CRC is so beautiful, every time. Their closeness to cultural traditions, natural ability to dance and innate rhythm. Their vulnerability in telling stories too close to home for many of them.
Gift. Since he would not be put in the 'children' category, he gets his own. I am grateful for this boy, who stood out when I met him three years ago, and who is growing into an incredible man.
The women.
When we arrived in this village the women welcomed us with song and dance. Before we left, they gave Eda (the woman whose house we were staying at, and who is the founder of the women's organization in the village) a goat, chickens, and a whole bunch of other good stuff. This was a significant sacrifice, as the village was in severe drought and without most of what they would normally harvest. The goat was a guest in the backyard for the rest of our stay. The chickens didn't make it that long...
The volunteers. Each morning, throughout the day in the field, and each evening, their open hearts and willingness to be present filled my heart.
My Lizzie! I love this girl.
Tayler. I knew I loved her before I even met her. She was a child/teenager/boy magnet.
These sweet peas were forgiving listeners to my attempted story telling in the absence of a much desired book.
Liz. This girl has so much to give.
Jordan's heart and empathy are as deep as her experiences and gifts.
I may have enjoyed some sun and reading and good company during the third hour of church...
I cannot think of a single volunteer from whom I did not learn something. I love every one of these people, and am grateful to have shared some very tender moments with them.
This truck. One of the highlights of both of my trips. The reflection time between often difficult to process experiences is a gift. To be able to look out on the beautiful country and be in the fresh air helped me process and stay present.
Sunrises. The opportunity to meditate, do yoga, walk, journal, and regain perspective.
Kathy and Josephine. I look up to these women. I am grateful for the many many lives they have changed for good.
Kathy's teachings; gems that will last long after these experiences and circumstances are long past.
