| Zambia 2010 |
|
Colleen Brian
I was absolutely amazed at these strong and beautiful people. We were blessed to attend visitations into the communities and homes of the sick or struggling; to pray and talk with patients in a local clinic; and to grow in relationship with our neighbors. Each of these people had a story filled with hardship of some sort. So many people are struggling to provide for their families, orphaned by AIDS, dealing with chronic illness, and more. As they told us their stories, we did not see fear, or discouragement, we saw strength and a fierce faith that God is providing and loving them at all times. It was remarkable. Their faith is astounding. I would listen to their stories and feel pain and helplessness, but their response was different. They had faith that the Lord would take care of it all. They truly operate as a community - human beings interdependent and all under the care and love of God. They love and accept each other for who they are and the struggles they are facing, willing to house or feed a member in need, and freely offering precious time, energy, and sparse resources. They live and breathe the example of Jesus’s love for his children. Joining the World Service Corps gave me the opportunity to gain a new family, to deepen my faith, and to grow in love for the children of God all over the world. I am so thankful for God, and all those who make WSC possible! Lauren Ballinger
|
Muli shani [how are you]? When I think back to my time in Zambia, I vividly remember the beauty of a moment that I shared with an adorable young girl in a plaid blue dress that reminded me of Dorothy from the Wizard of Oz. I had met Kanwa the first week I visited Zambia. She had bravely come up to me then and looked deeply into my eyes. She didn’t want anything from me except my presence. She sat down beside me and we spent our time coloring and enjoying each others’ company. We could not speak to each other, so we shared smiles, laughter, and contentment. When I returned to Zambia a full seven weeks later, Kanwa was there and ready to greet me and continue the friendship we started many weeks earlier. It was a wonderful feeling to know that this little girl remembered me still. When she finally got to me, she gave me a big hug and we stayed together for over an hour. It was really pleasant to be together. Our languages kept me from learning much about Kanwa’s life and experiences, but I know one very important thing – she cares about me and I care about her.
In going to Zambia, I expected a beautiful land and the opportunity to serve and learn beyond my own imaginings. But this is not what stood out. It was the lessons of love that I witnessed and received daily that has become the greatest impact of my summer of service.
