Family and Friends of Group One: The first group has arrived safely in Lusaka after having the opportunity to explore some of the beauties of Livingstone including a safari trip to Botswana and one of the natural wonders of the world in Victoria Falls. They will be departing for London tomorrow morning, and we will keep you updated on their progress home! And now a blog post from Group Two’s very own, Erin Murphy
Melissa and her "sister friends"
As the three-hour mass at Our Lady of Fatima Church came to a close and we all processed out, with the harmonious sounds of the choir carrying us through the doors, I heard a distant chirp of, “ Erin! Erin! Erin,” (sounding more like “Elin”) coming from behind me. I searched through the sea of men chatting and the flock of women in their bright chitenges to find my ten-year-old friend, Charity, waving and smiling at me. She quickly grabbed my hand and asked me to come to her house for a visit. Since we had nothing planned for the day I enthusiastically accepted her offer and we set off on the short walk to her home.
When we arrived, Charity’s mother Harriet, her brother Richard, her sister Paxine and her new niece Gift, met me at the doorway. They all immediately embraced me with a cheerful, “Musana Mwane,” and told me to come in. As I entered their crowded 10×10 home, I couldn’t help but feel sad about what I considered their “poor living conditions.” However, they were not only happy to have this home but they were proud of it. Charity showed their family photos to me and pointed out how cool it was that the baby blanket she once used is the one that her new niece, Gift, was currently wrapped up in my arms with. After spending a few hours with these people and chatting about everything from Jackie Chan to our hopes and aspirations I couldn’t help but have a pit in my stomach for how I had approached this situation. I entered their home and immediately saw what they didn’t have instead of what they did have.
On my walk back to the convent I had time to reflect on my own ignorance and I began to realize just how much I see the worst parts of situations before I see the best parts. Living in America I believe that we all tend to see the glass as half empty much more frequently than we tend to see it as half full. How often does our need to point out people’s flaws keep us from admiring their talents? How often do we see a person as a stranger before we give them the chance to be our friend? How often does the poverty of a country prevent us from seeing the richness it has to offer? How often does the ugliness of the world blind us from seeing the beauty in it? Negativity and skepticism run our lives and in many cases they prevent us from seeing the best that this world has to offer. If we spend our lives as guarded and judgmental people we will miss out on all the goodness that is constantly surrounding us.
Here in Zambia we have been confronted with this “goodness” like a head-on collision. It is in the children that greet us at the gate every morning just to spend time with us. It is in the home-based care providers that spend their lives helping others. It is in the members of the computer class that want to be able to use technology to connect to the world around them. It is in the students in the leadership class that have a burning desire to improve their community. It is in the students who want nothing more than to go to school. It is in the gaggle of girls braiding our hair that ask to be our “sister friends.” It is in the families that welcome us into their homes and see the goodness in us despite our misgivings.
I think that everyone could use a lesson from the people of Zambia in appreciating everything that we have. I believe that if we all take the chance to reflect on our own lives we will realize that goodness actually, is all around.
Erin Murphy, Class of 2015
P.S. Mom, Dad, Maddie, Jack and Reggie I miss you all and cannot thank you enough for all that you do. You fill my life with more goodness than I could ever ask for. Who loves you more than me?
P.P.S. To the rest of my family and friends I want to let you know that I miss you dearly and cannot wait to be reunited with you all shortly.
Dear Erin and everybody,
As I read your writings posted each day, I think about the amazing insights that you all are embracing. And we, at home, are truly inspired and learning through you. Not only are you making a difference in the lives of everyone you meet there, you are making a difference in our lives too. Thank you!
Anne Dickman (Alex’s mom)
P.S. Alex, I loved seeing you in the group picture. You looked healthy and happy. I love you so much and am sending you hugs and good thoughts.
P.P.S. Alz, your boys in South Beach will be taking on OKC.
As each new post is anticipated, when it appears it is a treat that enlightens the day. Thank you Erin for your gift this Sunday here if Flagstaff. All of your messages have a broader reach than family and friends as those of us at home are encouraging others to check out your blog. The reponse to those that were unfamiliar with the program is consistently a resounding WOW! The group picture was terrific and has been shared, and shared and shared…!
Dear Erin and Group 2:
I agree that it is so wonderful to sit down to the computer each afternoon knowing that something precious and wonderful will be shared with me straight from Zambia.
Erin, the description of your day with Charity and her family was very lovely for me to read. To specifically learn about what your days in Zambia are like is so important for all of us. I am certainly excited and curious to hear all the details. With these details, I will begin to understand why this experience is so life changing for all of you. I know that all of us will be so engaged and eager to hear so much more when you all return home.
Thanks again for sharing your thoughts on the blog. Enjoy your day!
Fondly, Barb Reid (Anne’s mom)
PS Anne, I leave for Canada, as scheduled, tomorrow to be with Joyce, Katie and Billy. All is calm at the moment. Love, Mom 🙂
Dear Erin,
I echo what Lora and Barb said – I love opening up the blog on my favorites menu every day. It makes me feel close to the goodness that you guys are doing, and will do.
And that photo (I assume its of you and Chraity) – wonderful! I can see in her smile how much she loves you, and how much having you to hold has meant to her.
Safe travels to Group One!
E
Was so excited when I opened the blog this morning after 8:30 Mass at Our Lady of Fatima Parish here at home……I guess it makes us feel closer to you! I also had just hung up with Buddy and she was wondering when you would have your turn. I guess the stars were all aligned right today. I loved your description of your day. It is so exciting for all of us here to know what your day-to-day life is like….It makes it more real for us and is somehow comforting to know a little of what you are doing. The picture is fantastic …… you both look so happy! Life here in seattle is going well. Maddie is working, Jack just finished his finals and school is out for me on Friday. Mo and Duff and the girls will be here on Wed and Michael and Shannon arrive on Thursday for the Mariners-Giants series. We are missing you tons but are following every day so know a little bit about what you are doing. I can’t wait to see the pics. Hope the camera is still working ;-).
Group 2…..everyone here in Magnolia and Our Lady of Fatima Parish are enjoying following your blog and looking forward to the daily posts….Keep em’ coming!
Stay safe and happy. We are all sending our love and good thoughts that the rest of your time in Zambezi will be filled with the adventures of a lifetime!
Love,
Kathleen Murphy (Erin’s mom)
Erin and all–
What a true blessing it is to read about your experiences in Zambia. I cannot help but want to visit this wonderful place full of so much love. Your words paint beautiful pictures and the photos reassure us of your safety and well being. Your journey is enriching so many lives–the families of Zambezi, each of you, and those of us who read from afar.
For me, one of the greatest gifts I ever received–and Erin you nailed it–is to understand it is not my place to judge others. That job is for one person only, our Heavenly Father. By learning not to judge others including myself, I am witness that life can be full of goodness. You can see the glass half full or even spilling over with happiness.
What I sense from each post is you are each learning to see and hear with your heart. You are still enough to absorb the true emotion of your day–the good with the bad. And, you are active enough to make a huge difference in someone’s day. The lives you touch and those who touch yours will forever be imprinted on your heart.
Life is short. Seeing goodness in everyone is so easy–we just need to engage enough to find it. I am proud of all of you students–both in group 1 and group 2. It is easy to understand the honest simplicity of God’s golden rule–treat others as you wish to be treated and you will always enjoy life and all the goodness within it.
Peace be with each of you. I pray for continued good health and ongoing safety. Thank you for pouring out your hearts to us; for letting us travel with you through your thoughtful words. I am forever grateful for the “young wisdom” you share with us.
Bugsy–My heart bursts with joy as I envision you experiencing this trip of a lifetime. I know how hard you worked last year to be a part of it. Everyday, my pride grows as I share your trip (and blog url) with friends and family. I will never forget your excitement the day before you left…and as I close my eyes each night, I reflect on our day together and how exhilarated you were to partake in such a meaningful ministry with the people of Zambia. I hope the trip and your newly-formed friendships–both students and Zambians–are wildly exceeding your expectations.
My favorite part of your blog (while there were many) was you reading and playing teacher to the children. Fond memories of us reading together every night and when you would read your books out loud for all of us to hear, acting out the stories and singing with all your heart. Mame and Grandma (and all the family) are loving this blog.
Please know I miss you so much. My heart aches until I see your smile, hear your laugh and hold your sweet self in my arms. I love you to infinity and beyond. I am loving the new job. Non
Melissa, I absolutely love your sister friends!! Your hair is adorable. Hope all is well and you are accomplishing everything you intended. I can hardly wait to see all your pictures and hear your stories. Miss you so much!!
You are in my heart. I am so proud of you!
Love always,
Mom
E,
We are so proud of you. You are an absolute difference maker and always have been. Know that we will be following your journey closely and watching your travels. Thank you for making such wonderful choices and having such a positive effect on those who need just a little bit more than us.
Shannon and Jojo are so curious and impressed with what you are doing they both have told me that they would like to go with you and your next adventure.
We all love you very much,be safe and have fun.
Much love,
Michael, Elaine, Shannon & JoJo
Dearest Sweet Erin,
I loved your blog, what a smart girl you are.
Thanks for sharing all your wisdom with us. What a difference you are making in the world already my young friend. We are all so proud of you.
Love you,
The Ramquists
Xo
Thanks for sharing, what a beautiful reflection!!……since the first group departed to Zambia almost a month ago, I look forward every day to hear some news from all of you.
Group one is now coming back home (with my girl in it!) and I’m still exited every morning for opening up this blog. I have enjoyed every word since the first post ……I’ve learned deep and beautiful lessons from each of your reflections.
I wish you all the best in this incredible journey…..
Erin, thank you so much for keeping us posted about group 1
Love, Gaby (Constanza’s mom)
Erin,
We bet Charity didn’t realize that when she invited you into her home, Sunday after church, she was also inviting all of us! We felt the warmth and love of Charity’s family as though we were right there with them…We felt their pride in sharing their home with you (and with us)! A 10×10 home can be more of a home than a palace….Charity and her family are living proof that a home is measured in love and not square footage…
Thank you for giving us the challenge….glass half empty or glass half full…it’s a perspective and a conscious choice.
Stef’s mom and Grandma
P.S. We love you, think of you every minute of the day and you are always in our prayers.
May He grant you according to your heart’s desire, and fulfill all your purpose. Psalm 20:4. Love, Grandma
P.S.S. Stef, love you more…..xoxo Mom.
Oh, do we ever miss you…Also sending love from family and friends who are following your journey daily! News flash!!!!! Can you believe we are having a shower for Laura next weekend? You just might make it home before baby boy Porter is welcomed to this world!
Erin and all, So happy you are seeing and feeling that “goodness is all around”….even amidst some stark differences to US life…your connections to these dear people are so wonderful and I look forward to hearing about more in the next 3 weeks! Each one touches my heart!
Kate-Kate, We missed you last night at the wedding but so loved being a part of the celebration despite the late drive home!! <:) After experiencing the saddest part of life with losing Mima on the front end of the week, it was great to experience one of the happiest with Natalie and Tyler! Everyone was beaming and beautiful and I can't wait to share pictures with you! You are in are hearts and prayers constantly! I love you so much! xoxo
Hi Group 2! I was in Seattle for the weekend so had to get caught up on my Zambian readings this morning- thanks for making my day as you always do!
Brady- this line, “We were meant to feel the sting of assumptions. We needed to recognize that the only way to combat the label of the disconnected, transactional “Western donor” is to intentionally seek deep and real relationships built on reciprocated understanding and the ability to not only serve, but allow oneself to be served” is brilliant! And thank you for the congrats, I can’t wait for you all to meet the little one 🙂
Kyle- I love the depth and authenticity you are bringing to Zambia, and the way you articulate both of those things.
Erin- love your thoughts on goodness, and I want to live my life seeing more of that every day. Thank you for writing that!
Everyone- you are all amazing, miss you!!
Erin,
Team 34th Ave West is rooting for you and sending love and good thoughts.
be well and take care.
oxox
Erin —
What a wonderful and thoughtful post. I wish you and your group well. May your incredible adventures and revelations continue. I trust your positive outlook and insights will rub off on us all!
Cheers,
Roy Brunett
Thank you so much for the picture of Melissa and her “sister friends!”
Melissa, you look wonderful and so happy! I just knew the girls there would take to you like an older sister. You have so much love in your heart and so much to teach them.
God Bless your work there, and on the rest of your journey. You and Dave be safe, and enjoy!
Love,
Dad & Michelle
Rin,
Just had to read the blog becuase Carmen forced me to at the front desk (what a shocker! She was basically crying (like when the cat died) but all of the ladies really miss you and ask me about you everyday!) Sounds like everything is going well. It would be nice if you’d hurry home because Kath and Matt are already out of control and I need a little sanity in my life. I’ll give you a better update than mom. Ritzy is still sassy (especially now that he is a junior). I honestly am so bored with out you so I’ve been working like crazy and watching too much Modern Family. Gloria may be my new favorite human. Abs and I have been hanging out because we both are friendless without you and the gang… so I have SO many good Cynthia stories! The four of us (you, me, abs, and leah) are all having dinner with her this summer… but only if she can get away from cat sitting George’s cat and hanging out with her bff Tameeko. I’m going to NYC in a week… I’ll pick you up a little gift if you get me Olympic gear (tit for tat…). Reggie is sort of annoying. He barks a little too much for mine (and Kath’s liking).
But really, hope your having the time of your life and learning a lot… I mean how can you not. See you soon sister
Love,
Mads
PS. Tom wanted me to tell you he REALLY misses you and can’t wait to see you. And to be careful and that you are a pretty nice person.
Wow E! I really enjoyed reading that!! What a defining moment in your life…one that will change you forever. Thanks for sharing it. Enjoy every minute.
Hugs from all of us in Bellingham.
Love,
Glynn, Greg, Charlie, Joey, Tessa & Lyla
Thanks for being you and remembering “who loves you more than me? Nobody” Take care of one another and as you know there are a whole lot of parents, family, friends and teachers who are so proud and jealous of your experiences. Be Safe!
XOXO
Dad
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Erin!!
I’m glad to hear you are having such a wonderful time! I knew you would. It is lonely without you here but I know you are having such a great, life-changing experience. I cannot wait to hear ALL about it when you return! Keep up the wonderful work and remember we are all here for you. I personally loved reading all about what you are doing… you are quite the little writer! Miss you lots my friend and can’t wait for you to come home. Have an absolutely splendid time and keep taking in every new opportunity! Love you lots and come home safely 🙂 Love Katie
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