God Always Shows Up | August 6, 2014

Yes, I am going to Africa – again! Can you believe it? I am having trouble processing it and I’m leaving tomorrow and my room looks like Goodwill after a doorbuster sale. I am at that point where I hate all my clothes and want to go buy a whole new wardrobe. But considering I am going to Africa to deal with poverty issues, that doesn’t quite seem like the Godly thing to do! I know I am forgetting crucial things (which has never happened but I am always sure it will!) and worry if I have bought enough presents for all the people I will see. I’m crabby with most everyone except my grands – they can do no wrong.
But then tomorrow, somehow I will get out of the house and all the bits and pieces will be packed away into bags and a backpack. I will close the door to the house and drive to the airport. After checking in, getting rid of my bags, and getting through security, I will take a deep breathe, go have some coffee, and get properly excited!
One would think, after all the travel I do, I would get better at this, but I don’t. This is normal pre-trip crud when things feel overwhelming and I begin to question the worth of the trip. Tomorrow, on the airplane, I will wonder what was wrong with me. And a couple days later, out in the field and with friends, I know I would not miss this for anything. God always shows up.

Being Over Here | August 12, 2014

Good morning from Lakeview Lodge, Zambia!!! I am sitting, eating breakfast, at one of my favorite places in the world. The morning sun is bright on Lake Kariba, little monkeys were playing on the rocks, by the lake. What a joy to wake up here, after having had a great night’s sleep.
It is the Lord’s day, as each day is, but I get to go to church here today – another great blessing!
The trip over was long, by our standards, but thinking of the weeks it used to take people to go any distance, does really lend perspective! 4 flights, a few hours sleep in DC, a few internal grumps over stupid stuff – not having an empty seat beside me so I could lie down (as if I am entitled to that!) – the crying baby ( when I should have been thinking about its poor mother!) – the poor service of United (when I get to go to Africa!)
But I made it! And so did my luggage – which always feels so important to me, so I am very grateful. Upon landing in Lusaka, I spent an hour in the custom’s line – frustrating only because I knew people were waiting for me and we had a several hours drive ahead of us. But I got through and Fred, the ADP manager, was waiting patiently and with a smile! Such a welcome sight! After a brief stop to change money and grab some food for the road, we were on our way to Sinazongwe.
Lusaka has grown considerably and feels much more Western – not sure how to feel about that. Progress and improved life is wonderful but I just don’t want to see the uniquely Zambian pieces get lost in the process.
I actually crawled into the back of the van and sprawled out on one of the bench seats and slept for an hours or so – wonderful! The sights along the way were familiar but towns have grown – a few even had a traffic light! but the roads are much the same – rough, especially the dirt one coming out here the last miles. I asked Fred how often the road is graded and he said it hasn’t happened since he’s been here, since 2011 so major potholes and washboard sections. All normal!
We arrived a bit after 9 but my dear Charity and her two daughters were waiting, with such a warm welcome! Such a joy to be here with them. The kindness, generousity, and warmth are such gifts and I again am so overwhelmed by the lavish graciousness of God.
Our hugs and hellos didn’t last too long as bed called to me. It only takes a night or two of poor sleep to make one really appreciate a bed, and I did!

The Lord’s Day In Zambia | August 12, 2014

One of the reasons I planned my flight to Zambia the time I did was to be there on a Sunday.  Going to church in Africa means singing and drums and heartfelt praise and worship.  Little children wend their way in and out, babies nurse, and the Lord is honored.  It is a holy time.

So I was very grateful to Fred for making the long drive from Lusaka after my long delay in customs.  After my lovely breakfast, Charity and Fred picked me up and we headed out to church.  We were attending a church we had been requested to visit.  However, upon arriving, there was hardly anyone there!  In fact the church door was closed and locked!  Usually there are all kinds of people milling about – the church leaders in their suits or brightly colored robes.  We wondered if we had gotten the time wrong but soon a man came and opened the door and the few of us there entered.  The service began with just about half a dozen of us and that included Charity, Fred, and me!  Soon, a slow trickle of others started coming in and then more and soon the women of the choir were there and the music began in earnest.  Yeah!

A School, A Well, and A Boy | August 13, 2014

An earlier start today but since I went to sleep about 8:30, that was just fine. (I am writing from the lodge, with my feet in the swimming pool, and there is a monkey just pouncing around close by – this is one of the myriad reasons I love Africa!)
Fred picked me up and we drove the short distance to the ADP office for morning devotions. I love that here – some songs, a short word from the Lord, and a little business. I was the business today! It is so humbling to be the recipient of so much love and attention. WV staff always make one feel like a much desired and honored guest. Such a huge blessing and gift.
After devotions a couple of other staff, Johnson and Paul, joined us for the day. Of course Charity is always here – my dear girl.
We first bounced along to my school unfortunately, this is a holiday time for the students so none were there. The teachers and headmaster live there, though, so a few of them came over. None of them were from my time but it was still lovely to meet them.
My first stop was to see the 2 year old computer lab! Wow! What an amazing place – real desks and a number of computers all run on electricity from a generator. The whole compound is wired for electricity (by WV) but it is all just waiting for the government to hook it up. My church raised the funds for the classroom and Hoops for Hope provided the desks, computers etc. Each student gets on a computer at least once a week which may not seem like much, but so far ahead of where they were. This was the school we visited on our first trip in 2004. Back then, it was awful! Broken bent desks, very few supplies or books, boarding students sleeping on mats on the floor and hanging their clothes from ropes strung across the space. No nearby water or latrines. The headmaster pled with us for help. It was heartbreaking, especially for we teachers. But now it has transformed into a place with many classrooms, better supplies, computers!, beds for the boarders, housing for the teachers, so they will stay here. The school can then get much better teachers. There is a borehole on the grounds and several latrines. Such a transformation. I am so thankful that I have gotten to see it and that my church has played such a large role in this. Even with no students, it was still so meaningful to wander through my classrooms and “see” my students who sat there.
We had lunch on the road – some burgers provided by Lakeview. The food continues to be a revelation on this trip. It has improved so much so more gratitude.
After leaving the school, we went out to Siabaswi – the first village our church partnered with. After a fairly short bumpy ride, we pulled in. First I met the volunteer sponsorship staff – local saints who volunteer to help meet and care for the 14oo sponsored kids for this area. Then we headed over to see my precious boy! He was waiting and such a joy to see him – for the 4th time! This visit was particularly wonderful! He is 17 now and has grown up into such a marvelous young man! He is almost as tall as I am and so mature. He is now in grade 10 and that is boarding school so he away from home much of the year. Here, the students go 3 months, home a month and back again. To qualify for secondary school, students have to pass a major test. Bevice did and is only 1 of 3 students from this area moving on to secondary. I am so proud of him!!! He wants to go onto college so that needs to happen. We talked a bit abut that. Bevice lives with his grandmother, a wonderful, sacrificial woman, who gives of her life to him – selling cattle to pay for his schooling. I always thought she was quite elderly but learned today she is 59! What a difference our circumstances make. I was born in the United States – she in Zambia. I lived with privilege and many opportunities and she with severe poverty and virtually no opportunity. There is no point in asking why – just for me eternal gratitude.
Soon after arriving, we went over to the pump that is dedicated to Paul. There is a lovely plaque with a verse and his name. Very moving for me. There were some folks collecting their water so good to see them. Johnson, who is the water guy, told me this well serves about 900 people. There is also a storage tank now and pipes have been laid to bring water to some of the homes! Such an incredible advance because as amazing as the pumps are, it still involves a short walk and hauling water back to one’s home. It’d be like our going down the block each day to get the water we need. Johnson also told me that this well has the best water of any in the area so that wiped me out a bit. Paul’s well provides the best water – of course! Another blessing.
After the requisite pictures, we went back to the home area. Sitting outdoors on the little stools, I gave Bevice the things I’d brought for him – always such a fun thing to do. The soccer ball was probably the biggest hit. He pumped it up and played a little with the men. I wanted Paul to be there to play as well. Bevice is on the school team and plays the same position Paul had so that is perfect!
We chatted quite a bit as his English is much improved. Charity translated for the others. Bevice’s mother also came by so it was good to see her. Again, many more pictures and exchange of thanks and blessing. The grandmother showed me her house which is the one I had seen last time – two rooms so quite spacious for here. Bevice stays in the smaller building which was their original home. We joked about it being his man cave! But it is nice for him to actually have some space to himself. He is still rather shy and reserved but had such a ready smile and warmth. I think we love each other. Fred has also gotten to know him well and spoke so highly of him so another gift – a much needed male presence in Bevice’s life.
The time passed quickly and then we had to take our leave. It was hard to say good-bye but it is such a privilege to have seen him grow from a little 5 year old boy, sitting on Paul’s shoulders, to this wonderful young man. There is such hope for his future and he loves the Lord so all is truly most well.
There is a litany running through my head of Thank you, Thank you, Thank you!
We drove back to the lodge and as it was not too late, there was time to relax, soak my feet, write, and read. Then Megan, the lodge manager, brought over a couple of glasses of wine and we sat on my little porch and had a very good chat. She is a white South African and it has been such fun to get to know her a little. Another blessing of travel is all the interesting people one meets.
A group of geologists arrived so we shared our dinner time. Megan again joined me for supper – yeah! Supper was terrific! Wonders never cease. Steak, rice, veg, and then dessert of homemade ice cream with Lindt chocolate sauce! Out here in the bush! Megan and I continued to talk but also had some fun conversation with the men. Most of them are from the UK – here to do a geological survey for an energy company.
Off to my room, some quick organizing for the next day, and then bed and sleep.
What an incredible day!

Joy Upon Joy | August 14, 2014

Before I start today, just some quick general observations. I am seeing much more livestock around – and they look healthy and well fed. On our first visit, we mainly saw cattle and they were so scrawny and quite pathetic. Now there are many goats, pigs, lovely chickens, and plump cattle. It is such an encouragement to see that.
There is a large company here – Zambeef, which provides the best beef. So we were kidding about Zampork or Zamgoat, as we saw the different animals.
There is electricity to many more places. There are even street lights in Sinazongwe! All two blocks of it. And there are street signs! So funny to see these official signs for these bumpy, rutty dirt roads. But all again signs of significant improvement in people’s lives.
Off at the same time this morning. Devotions again and I got to see another long time friend so that is always a great joy. Soon we headed out to visit the borehole that Attie sponsored her senior year in high school. Not a long drive at all. As we drove up, the familiar and welcome sound of singing voices could be heard. A group of women met us singing and dancing which I love being a part of. Luckily no one here  cares how pathetic my dancing is compared to the women here and I have a great deal of fun. We danced our way over to the borehole and then to a nearby gathering area. These are some of my favorite times – sitting under a big tree, listening to the people share, and just being together. There is a formality to all of these meetings. First, someone prays – always. Then the headman gives a welcome. Then The ADP manager, Fred in this case, gets up to respond and introduce the WV staff and me – the ridiculously honored guest! If you ever need an ego boost, come over here. They feel so honored that one has come and so grateful for what has been done in the community. This well serves 95 households, over 500 people and is doing very well. Not only do they get clean water to drink at a close distance, the water is also used for small vegetable gardens, which improves their health a great deal, especially the children.
As we sit under the tree, the women sit together, as do the men. The older children tend to wander around at the edges and little ones go wherever they want. Babies seldom cry over here as they are with their mothers so much of the time and are nursed at the slightest whimper. Probably not for us Westerners, but it works over here.
I got up to thank them and share the story of how Attie came to do the well. She had also written a letter and sent a few pictures so I shared those. Then I got give out the purchased gifts she had sent along – a shirt and a cross for the headman, pens for the village leadership, and candy and stickers for the children. Such fun to do. Nothing makes children like you more than giving them candy!
I also called At and she got to hear the people yell Hi to her. I woke her as it was 2 in the morning but I think she thought it was worth it.
We said our good-byes and headed to the town of Maawba, where there is one of very few secondary schools in the area. This is where my Bevice goes to school. It is quite competitive to get in so these are the best kids. Most of the students have to board and many of them must board in town. As this can be very unsafe for girls particularly, WV opened a safe house 2 years ago. It can accommodate 20 girls. As it is the holiday time, some of the girls were home but many were still there. What a great place and great program. It is run in partnership with another Christian NGO so the girls get Bbile training as well as their education at the school. The rules are firm – the girls are here to study and learn and it is quite a privilege to stay here. Again competition is intense – at least 100 for the few spots that were open this year. The vulnerability of a girl is a consideration in her acceptance.
The house has 3 bedroom areas with bunks fairly close together. western kids would think they were roughing it but this is great living for these girls. Their meals are provided each day with some of the food coming from a garden they tend. One of the girls wants to be in agricultural management so she is the head gardener! Each girl is provided with a bike to get to and from school. They have a savings group in the house so they are expected to save and contribute to the well being of the house. lilian is the house master and a large loving African woman. The girls help with chores and obviously are very fond of each other.
We were greeted with the songs, of course but a little more subdued than in the village. We met in their living room and slowly the girls started to share their stories and their hopes. A number of them have lost at least one parent and being raised by a relative or step parent became an issue. For many it was a matter of being kept home to work although more than one girl snuck off to school. One sweet girl lost both her parents at a very young age. Her relatives raised her but then arranged a marriage for her at age 13. She was taken to the man who was to be her husband and she ran away! She went to the police and they actually helped her. Her uncle agreed to take her back and not try to marry her off again! These girls do prize their education and will fight for it. Now they hope to be teachers or nurses or even doctors. They will continue to be sponsored by this
program through college so it is an incredible opportunity for them.
I shared with them a little about my teaching and how impressed I was with them and all I hoped for them. Then we did family pictures and of course they thought my grands were lovely. I used my iPad to show the pics and they saw the music tab and wanted to hear some. So we danced to the Beach Boys, did motions with a Psalty song, and just sang along on another. They also taught me a song in Tonga. Then we headed outside to play some games – I can’t really explain them in this space but they were circle games and we went around and did silly things. I got to show them the hokey-pokey so that always makes me happy. And they got a huge kick out of the old lady jumping around with them. We were having lunch together but it took quite awhile to prepare so we just sat around and answered each other’s questions. One I asked was if they could come to the US, what would they like to see. Many said mountains or the ocean. Some wanted to visit the white House and chat with Obama. He is still a major hero over here.
I loved that no one said Disneyland! In fact, none of them have heard of Disney or Mickey Mouse so our influence is not everywhere!
After our late lunch, which was a good chicken meal where I got to use the only fork in the house, we had to say goodbye again. Always hard. I was really taken with these girls and could see spending some extended time with them.
Our final stop was to a Savings Group in another area. More singing, dancing, introductions under the tree. We were treated to a number by the local rock band! Their instruments are all handmade. The most amazing one was the percussion set – old plastic bottles wired onto a wire base, a string of washers, and a small metal pan. Amazing! The guitar had nails and screws for the strings! But they sounded very good!
Then we watched one group have its meeting. There are five groups in this village and each group wore its own particular chitenge (wrapped fabric like a skirt) so they were very colorful. They are obviously very proud of these groups. Each meeting starts with opening the money box which has 3 locks. The different keys are held by different members. Their personal savings books are handed out. The rules are quite strict – no interruptions or being late. There are fines for that – small but still there. I loved that several of the women had to pay as their cell phones went off! Only baby interruptions are allowed! First they take role and them collect the social giving. Each woman is required to give to this, even if it is just a little. This fund is used for personal emergencies a member might have. Next, they pay into the savings fund and finally do any loans that are wanted. They have 2 months to repay at 10% interest. Meticulous accounts are kept and the entire proceeding has a formal, businesslike air to it – 9 women gathered on a mat on the ground, one nursing a baby. It is a lovely thing. A few women shared what a difference this group has made in their lives – from help in a medical emergency to funds to buy cattle or start a small business. Again the power of transformation! The event closed in prayer.
Off we bounced again, back home.
My final night here so I again enjoyed dinner with Megan and the geologists. Then back to my room to pack up and get some sleep.
Tomorrow say the goodbyes here – sigh – and then back to Lusaka. I fly out on Thursday but get to have dinner with some old friends, Foster and Lutangu Lubasi. He was the ADP manager on one trip and we all so enjoyed him and Foster.
More joys.

Goodbyes and Hellos | August 15, 2014

A great deal of my last full day in Zambia was spent in the car as I started in Sinazongwe and ended in Lusaka. After getting all my stuff semi- organized, I had a nice breakfast and reluctantly said farewell to Lakeview Lodge. I truly love this place – the peace, the huge rocks, the lake quietly lapping at its shore. I have spent many very good hours here, quietly or in joyful companionship.
Over to the ADP office to also say goodbyes – I always hate this part. We had brief devotions and then they gave me an amazing send off – such generous and kind words and presents beyond all deserving. At, there are some for you!
After a flurry of picture taking, we hit the road (which becomes rather literal over here!). Our first stop was Choma to get fuel and drop off young Charity for some time with her father. I also got to see my precious friend, Kingsley, so that was so joyful! He had been my “handler” last time I was here so we spent a great deal of time together. He is highly skilled in his work for WV, but also has an amazing sense of humor and fun. There were many shared jokes and it was so wonderful to see him again. His youngest child, age 2, is named Jill – such an honor!
Then another goodbye, a bit teary on my part, and then back into the car for
another leg.

This time we took Charity to a week long conference and the hardest goodbye. She is my daughter and I am her mum and it is a gift of a relationship. This has been such a precious time with her – thank you.
Fred and I then set out on the last leg to Lusaka. We enjoyed some good conversation and many laughs over the bumps, the stops, and the traffic. We arrived ay my hotel, the very lovely Intercontinental, at 6. There was enough time to shower and begin to organize (an ongoing challenge) and then I headed downstairs to the lobby to wait for Lubasis. Lutangu had been the ADP manager when we were here in ’07 and his wife, Foster was with us as well. They are amazing people – very high achievers who love the Lord and serve him with excellence and great good humor.
While I was waiting, a lovely young lady came up to me and asked if I knew Pastor Graig! While I was wondering what the heck, she said that she was Foster and Lutangu’s daughter. She recognized me from pictures! It was nice to know that I hadn’t aged beyond all recognition in 7 years! She had a friend with her from Australia so we were an international group. While we waited, we chatted. They were just back from Livingstone and were headed to Tanzania soon to work with Operation Mobilization for two months. Lubasis soon arrived and after joyful greetings, we headed into the Italian restaurant. I showed them the tasty treat of olive oil and vinegar for bread dipping. The 2 hour meal was filled with much laughter, many stories, and sweet fellowship. Too soon another goodbye but it had been such a treat just to see them.
Up to my room to organize and I got all the gifts in so yeah! Then sleep.
As my flight is not leaving until about 1 today I had plenty of time to get in some exercise – felt so good. Then a shower. One thing about this room is all the mirrors – everywhere! At Lakeview I only had one little mirror in the bathroom but here I get to view the flab from so many angles! I dress in a hurry!
Then down to a lavish breakfast buffet – eaten on an open air porch area
Just perfect. The contrast between the simplicity of Lakeview and the luxury of here is stark. I really prefer Lakeview but I do enjoy my creature comforts and wifi! After a quick  trip back to the room to collect my stuff, I checked out and Fred and his family picked me up to head to the airport. It was such a privilege to meet his wife and two children.
An easy drive out – and then goodbye to Fred. He is such an amazing man and it is such a privilege to now count him as a friend. He has driven me all over with skill and great cheer, been so supportive, and just generally excellent.
I will miss him.
Into the airport and very easy check in and through security and immigration and now I wait at the departure gate for my flight to Johannesburg where I will meet up with the team and we will travel onto Muputo.
My next entry will be from Mozambique but may be a few days as I have no idea what we will have in the way of wifi.
Time to go – many blessings.