Hi, I’m Sarah LaFleur, one of the two first-year students who got the opportunity to experience Zambia.
“When my path through life feels difficult or scary, I can find peace knowing I am in the presence of God. I may not always be able to see how the road ahead will bend. But if I fear the unknown, I won’t be able to enjoy the journey.” A quote from the Daily Word my grandma handed off to me for this trip.
As a child, I was incredibly outgoing. So outgoing that my family had to retrieve me back from trying to leave a restaurant with other families. I would start a conversation with anyone at any time, whether they wanted to listen or not. Moving forward to my young teenage years, where individualism begins to dull before flourishing once adulthood comes around, I strayed away from the outgoingness. I would speak only when I had something appealing to say, or when the ones I wanted to impress were around. I began shaping my own insecurities while missing out on the best parts of life. I don’t know whether it’s the way society has shaped young women to be or the constant pressure to be perfect we Americans seem obsessed with, but as I faced the starting point of adulthood, I grew uncomfortable with unfamiliarity and was unwilling to experience the unknown for fear of how others perceive me. This trip has so far thrown me full speed into both the unknown and the unfamiliar.
With this trip, I went from driving the same roads I’ve known for 19 years, to navigating a foreign city only hours upon landing. From sleeping in a room surrounded by family at home and close friends at school, to sleeping in a hostel with 4 people I barely knew and a thin tent surrounded by the wildlife of Botswana. From conversing with close friends in English, to trying to understand the 72 different languages spoken in Zambia. Even from buying chicken breast at Costco, to preparing it myself from coop to table. (Nick, you were right, I did have to kill a chicken.)
These out of comfort zone experiences have brought the most indescribable memories. I could not see how, “the road ahead will bend,” but I trusted God, my professors and peers, and my support back home to protect me.
These experiences all tie back to connection. accompaniment. As we have been in Zambezi for four days now, we have been discussing the importance of accompaniment. In one of our readings, How to Know a Person by David Brooks, we learned the qualities of accompaniment. The one that I have been practicing in my days here is the other-centeredness. Letting your image, your ego, and your self-deprecating thoughts go to enjoy the present moment. The little things such as your hair, your weight, and your outfit do not matter when you’re involved in such joyful experiences.
I did not think of how my hair looked when I leapt off a bridge; I instead made a bonding connection with Natalie who was jumping with me, attached to my hip. I did not think of what was stuck in my teeth while I sat face to face with a lion, I instead felt immense emotions connecting me to the wildlife on earth. I did not think of how my eyebrows were not plucked while I learned how to prepare a meal with Mama Katendi or was taught about Tok-Tawki Beetles by Opi, I instead engaged in gaining new cultural understanding and knowledge. I did not think of how my stomach looked in my shirt when I danced freely around the fire, I instead immersed myself into the Zambian way, care free and full of support.
Zambia has taught me a new way of life. I am connecting with others, unafraid of what they may perceive. I am learning about culture, open to admitting my assumptions. I am contributing to the community, finding growth in making mistakes. My inability to be present, to let go of my judgmental thoughts, to avoid the unfamiliar, the unknown, and the uncomfortable have begun fading away, and I can not wait to see what more can be done in the next three weeks.
To my friends and family, I miss you lots and cannot wait to see you all. I will continue to be constantly reminded of the love and support I have from back home. (Ps: Dad, my towel is working!)
Sarah LaFleur
School of Education, Class of ’28
Good morning/afternoon/evening…..
Sarah what great perspective, it is an experience some people never get, times in life when you can let your guard down and just be in the moment are priceless and sometimes hard to come by how exciting.
Katy,
Hope you are settling in and getting comfortable in your surroundings, I keep thinking about how beautiful it must be, the sounds, the smells and the music. Take time to let those experiences and feelings take hold as you will think of them often. Have a fantastic day and know we are thinking about you all the time.
love dad
Dear Sarah and Zags,
What a beautiful reflection! It’s inspiring to hear how you’re rediscovering connection, courage, and presence by stepping outside your comfort zone. Growth doesn’t come without discomfort, and your willingness to lean into that space—led by faith, trust, and humility—is a powerful testament to the journey you’re on. Keep soaking it in. The road ahead may bend, but you’re walking it with open eyes and an open heart, and in God’s presence.
Caroline M. – miss you so much! Love, Mom
Sarah,
Well said! I remember feeling quiet and insecure in the beginning of the trip. With time, it began to go away. I love how you are letting the unknown become comfortable and being open to new experiences. Remember, you are perfect the way you are! Keep growing and doing amazing things Sarah!
-Ellie Powers, ZamFam ‘24
P.S. at this point, I’m sure you’re expecting a comment from me haha!!
“Carefree and full of support.” Sarah, those feelings alone sound worth travelling 10,000 miles for. Yay to letting go! Yay to present moment! And yay to not even considering what you look like, as you focus on connecting with others, unafraid! This is so beautiful. And thank you for mentioning the David Brooks’ reading — that book has been on my list and you’ve reminded me to read it. I’ll do so thinking of you all.
Now … onto the chicken-killing you just nonchalantly, casually dropped in there, Sarah. WHAT. So many questions. Any chance that was just a metaphor?! Someone (anyone?) has got to follow up on this in a future post.
Mia, to say I miss our daily banter is an understatement. Much to the teasing of B, my colleagues and Jay, I’ve replaced our texting throughout the day with repeatedly checking my iPhone’s “World Clock.” I’m not even aware I’m doing it half the time. Silver lining: No one around me now has to suffer through their days unaware of what time it is in Zambia right now (1:48 AM right now, should anyone need an update. You’re welcome). 😉 I am SO very thrilled you are there, am praying for all of you often and I love you so much! (Ellie, I keep picturing you in your adorable scrubs and send you a hug, too!). Thanks again for the lovely post, Sarah. xo
xoxo,
Elisa (Mia’s Mama)
Sarah, this idea of letting the barrier of how you perceive yourself go in order to fully feel like you are living is so powerful! The moments you listed sound so, so meaningful. Thank you for this perspective.
Sean, I missed commenting in time on yesterday’s post. But the idea of you using your music to connect with a stranger has me grinning ear to ear. That is beautiful. I hope there have been many similar moments and I love you lots!
Piper— thought of you while talking about stories with Trudy recently. I hope you are doing well out there, sending love to you!!!!
Leah
Such inspiring words Sarah! Letting go and embracing the unknown sure has led to some beautiful moments! I love all of the smiling faces pictured in this post and am so inspired by how you all are embracing this opportunity to connect with others.
Taylor we are just so grateful that you are experiencing these moments with this group, at this time, and in this community. Embrace every new experience because we sure can’t wait to hear about them!!
I was moved by your reflection, Sarah, and can imagine that Natalie shares some of your thoughts of diving into the unknown and the discomfort. I’m so glad that she was able to do the Victoria Bridge Jump with you! You all continue to inspire me for putting yourselves into such new and diverse experiences despite the presence of fear that I’m sure is always there with each new encounter. It’s making me reflect on what I can do in my own life to take more steps into discomfort.
Natalie – You got this girl! I’m sure it’s challenging, but you are strong and will find your way to learn and grow. So proud of you!!
I am so impressed by each and every reflection that has been shared on this blog. I get overwhelmed with the right words to say and how to convey how much your authentic voices come through in your posts. I love the raw vulnerability and self reflection. Thank you for sharing with all of us!
It feels like you have been gone for weeks- I can’t wait to hug ElleBelle and see her crooked smile and feel her big heart. Life here is plugging away- but each day for you must be filled with new faces and amazing experiences. Keep soaking it all in- and stay present. What a special gift. Sending our love from Portland to all of you and a special hug to Mia as well.
I hope Ellie had you all hold hands and sing the song…..
With love
Coco
Response to “Letting Go”
Sarah, your words made my ❤️ so happy! I hope they will inspire others to look at life through new eyes – wide open, full of awe and wonder. Ready to conquer their fears and worries. Eager to explore and learn. Willing to help and support those less fortunate.
You are on an adventure! Cherish all the memories and friendships you make along the way. They are irreplaceable treasures. Dream BIG, Sarah! You have a loving support system. I miss you and can’t wait until our next lunch at Kafe Neo! MUALUA, Grandma
Sarah,
Reading your words fills me with so much pride and admiration. The depth of your reflection shows a maturity and openness that many people spend their whole lives trying to reach.
What you’re experiencing, the willingness to face the unfamiliar, to let go of ego, and to begin embracing the present moment is powerful. Hold on to this lesson tightly. Life will continue to offer both comfort and discomfort, but the strength you’re discovering now, the ability to stay present and let go of fear, will serve you again and again.
When I saw that picture of you surrounded by those beautiful, smiling children, it brought tears to my eyes. You look so full of joy—so present, so connected. That happiness on your face says more than words ever could. It’s a reflection of the light you carry and the way you’re learning to share it with the world.
Keep noticing, keep stretching yourself, keep connecting, and keep dancing freely around the fire – maybe don’t jump off another bridge – jk! Enjoy every moment of these next few weeks, soak it all in, keep your heart open, and know how deeply proud I am of you. I love you so much and miss you tons!
Love,
Mom
Wow Sarah I’m so happy for you to be on this leg of your journey. The experiences you’re sharing will help you in your future endeavors! I can feel your presence through your smile! I love you!
Wow Sarah, a very honest, intimate and inspiring reflection! Thanks, Brian
Hello Sarah,
I am from ZamFam 24. I just wanted to say I really resonated with your story about being outgoing and increasingly anxious over teenage years. It was much the same for me. Be sure to remember what you are feeling now in Zambia, and all the people who helped get you there. They are the key to feeling that way again.
Cheers
Dear Sarah, You are becoming a well-lived young woman. WE are so proud of you. I know your depth of perspective is being developed and is profound at your age. Continue to grow, share, and build trust in yourself as well as those around you. The tears flow freely on our end as you dance freely around the fire. Our love and support envelop you during your travels. I can’t wait for a bear hug from you. I miss you tons and wish you the best time of your life!!!!
All our Love and Happy Hearts
Mimi & Papa