Returning back to the chapel after a long walk to and from the Dipalata Mission Hospital, I geared up to teach my second computer class with Kyle and Nolan, to a group of forty eager individuals. For the members of the small community of Dipalata this class was the first time, and realistically maybe one of the only times they would get the opportunity to see and actually touch a computer. I cannot begin to express their excitement as they craved to know anything and everything about this revolutionary tool. These were the only two classes we would teach in Dipalata, and although it was amazing to be part of the experience and see the community members in awe of the piece of technology that I take for granted every day. By the end of the second session, I found myself somewhat discouraged. As everyone departed from the one room church I was teaching in, I sat on a long wooden bench where I began to reflect. My mind churning fast, I found myself asking questions such as “how am I supposed to make a difference somewhere like this in two, one hour sessions?” “Why can’t I give them all the information they so desperately want to know?” Sitting there in a daze, I was quickly awoken by a shout from someone outside saying, “We are going to go explore and watch the sunset if you want to come.” Reluctant to go, I decided to follow the mantra, “just say yes.” As I stepped outside, several children immediately latched on to my hands, yearning for the slightest bit of attention. As I walked and followed behind the group, my heart felt heavy. There was great passion and desire in the eyes and hearts of these simple villagers. This was not something new for me to see in the Zambian people, but in this small boma with no running water or electricity, a thirty-kilometer walk from Zambezi, the nearest larger village, Africa began to feel real to me. I felt hopeless. I paused on the path, and stared at the sunset wondering why it had to be like this. I soon was interrupted by the familiar sound of a guitar not too far off, accompanied by soulful voices. I walked over behind the chapel to find choir practicing for Sunday’s mass. I sat on a rock and just observed as the music poured into my heart. My somewhat melancholy mood quickly changed. Curiously, moving to a closer rock I realized that this familiar sound was actually my backpacker’s guitar that I had brought with me. The choir director had his eye closed and was finger picking a beautiful tune. I did not question how he got it, but sat there and listened with a grin from ear to ear. The other instruments were handmade but the sound was powerful when combined with the rich voices.
We were graced with their choir’s performance two more times before we left Dipalata. That night, after indulging in a feast, which was somewhat uncomfortable due to visible lack of food and resources in community, we gathered around the campfire. Once again, I found the choir director, Pepytex, with my guitar. He had somehow made his own pickup and attached it to a very old small boom box. As the night grew darker, the fire grew brighter, but not just the fire in the middle of our wooden benches, but also the fire in our hearts. The amplified guitar, which will be given to Pepytex next week, began every song with individual notes, followed by the rich decedent voices of the African choir. The first song that was played that night and the next morning in mass had the lyrics of “Welcome, Welcome, dear visitors, we are all happy today.” This was a reminder to me of the feeling when I had arrived in Zambezi, 12 days ago.
Two themes have been present throughout my time here in Africa, the overwhelming joy and love, as well as servitude. Through the music and dancing in Dipalata the paradox of Africa was revealed to me in a new and impactful way. During our time in Zambia, I have noticed something different about the people that I am still struggling to put into words. The closest I can get is to say they are free. The sobering experience in Dipalata exposed the way that most of Africa lives. Each of us were pushed outside our comfort zones as we slept on the hard ground, with no electricity or running water (no bathrooms). However, we were also privileged to share the life and joy of the people as over two hundred children and adults gathered around the fire, dancing and singing with more life than a newborn. They were proud of what they had, even though it was little, and they were elated that they got a chance to share it with us. Those in Dipalata, as well here in Zambezi have served us with wide hearts. Their happiness and joy was something that came from deep inside. Although this simple joy was especially present in Dipalata, I have also found it as I talk with Gladys, Naomi, and Lisford for an hour after Computer Class everyday, or when I help Benson with his homework as he teaches me Lunda and Luvale. On a previous blog post, someone had mentioned that in Zambia, they had never been so happy with so little. Especially after Dipalata I can agree with this statement. Although we are here to teach and to serve, we are truly being served and learning from those around us more than we could have ever imagined.
The people here crave to know. The people here love with wide hearts despite the narrow road they walk on. The people here are free.
Hands
Whether they be small or big,
Pitch Black or snow white,
These worn hands yearn to be held tight.
Some aged with wrinkles
Others leathered and rough,
The embrace of a single hand can be more than enough.
Every time we step outside
Little hands reach up in the air,
Searching for another hand to cling to with care.
Other times we shake the hands
Of a new friend saying Musana Mwane, hello
This simple sign of respect can cause a heart to overflow.
Every single crack and crevasse
Has its own story to tell
Each unique feature in God’s glory we revel.
But no matter what a hand may look like
The same things it can do,
These hands united together as one, no longer two
Because when we are holding hands
It is eye to eye we see,
And through this we realize we can Be Free.
Stefanie Watson
Class of 2012
P.S. Mama, Daddy, Jess, and Grandma! I miss you all so much. Mom you would love it here, everyone is so friendly. I have been reading Jesus Calling and thinking of you! I love each and every post! Dad-the music is unbelievable. I have been trying to record as much as I can for you. Also, as I mentioned the backpacker will have a new home next week as Pepytex will walk here to pick it up and it will be put to good use as it ministers to the community. Jess-I have so much to tell you and so many pictures to show you. Try looking up Dipalata on google maps…good luck finding it! Grandma-your verses you sent me have been encouraging and I can feel your prayers everyday! Give Dipstick and Piper a kiss for me 🙂
P.P.S. To the rest of my friends and family! I miss you all so much! Thank you for reading the blog and for the support. I have so many stories for you. To my girls-I can’t wait to be reunited, and don’t worry I will bring plenty of colorful chitengis!
Dear Stef,
My heart is pretty full right now. The roads that you are traveling, literally and figuratively, are taking you to some amazing places. Please know that we are with you in spirit, with our prayers, and our love. I understand the discouragement that comes with wanting things to be better, but I am so glad to see you finding the joy that may come from the most unexpected places at the most unexpected times. What an unbelievable experience in Dipalata. I never dreamed that little guitar would make a stop in Africa and bless some hearts along the way. There has to be a song in there someplace. “Hands” was a wonderful ending to a beautiful post. I am blessed beyond these words, and like I said, my heart is pretty full right now. Love you so much.
Just remember, “Tomorrow’s song is just too good to miss…and Heaven’s waiting.”
Dad
Stef!!!!!!! Well you made a little cameo in my dream last night…. then I wake up this morning and see your blog post! Strange. Ok basically I was in Seattle, ran into you on the street (you had that classic Stef big bright smile and a cute new haircut with bangs), then you shook my arms with excitement and said that we must hang out ASAP. So while you were adventuring around Zambia yesterday, we set up a friendship date in some tangent dream universe 🙂
I’m so happy to hear that you’re learning some of life’s most pivotal, yet elusive, lessons. Less is more. Crave to know. Say yes. Be free. If each and every one of you stay intentional when you return home, I have faith that the lessons you’ve learned will transform how the rest of your life will unfold. The key word in that sentence is *intentional* because it will be YOUR choice to keep that Zambian passion alive in your heart.
Ah Pepetex… I wonder if Boneface was there too. Hopefully somebody in this group carried the tradition of learning how to rock the bass! Sunday mass with the blue Jesus (times 2) was a bit long, I’m sure, but just remember that your presence is the present.
Nolan, it’s great thinking of you, the stars, the choir… and the raw, beautiful glimpse of humanity around that fire in Dipolata.
Brady, let yourself indulge in the happiness too!
Dave, hope you’re finding that the research and dissertation is holding true during your Zambezi experience!
To somebody who hasn’t had friends or family comment much on the blog, you rock! Keep having this experience of a lifetime!
Dear Stephanie,
I wish I could relay as beautifully as you do how I felt reading your post. Truthfully at the end of the poem all I could think was “Wow” and “Oh My Gosh!” Not eloquent but very heartfelt. Thank you, and for the photos also!
P.S.
Mateo seeing you with the kids I can almost feel the attachments I know you are making. Love you!
To my beautiful Stef,
Your post was wonderful and literally warmed my heart. Your inspirational words have always guided me throughout our friendship but hearing you know has truly given me a different perspective on many of the overlooked pleasures we enjoy here in the United States. I cannot wait to hear everything once you return and soak up every detail about the kids you are helping and the places you have visited. I want you to know and take with you the impact you have had on so many people, not just in the United States but now in Dipalata! Do you know where you are going to be headed next? Make sure you are writing in your journal so that you can take me back to Africa with you next time!
Everything is good here. Work has been really busy, just got approved to start narrating so by the time your home I will be pro! Andrew says hi and that he misses you! Molly actually barked and wouldn’t stop the other day when I told her that I missed you haha!
You have no idea how much I am missing my best friend but also how proud of you I am. I know I keep saying this but lady, this is amazing what you are experiencing and something that you are going to be able to share forever. I will keep you in my heart and continue praying for you and the wonderful people you have had the chance to meet! I love you beautiful girl and please come home safe! xoxo always and forever!
Your best friend,
Bri
PS: Love the blue shirt! Also, I hope that jacket is holding up for you!
PPS: Keep taking pictures cause I want to see alllll of them when you get back!
PPSS: Your poem was beautiful….it made me cry…. which made me miss you even more
PPPSSS: BE SAFE and COME HOME SOON!
What an awesome post, Stefanie! I can only imagine the range of emotions you are living in and learning from, but knowing you, I know this experience won’t leave you anytime soon! Sending lots of love!
Stef,
This is such a beautiful reflection from an even more beautiful woman. I remember wrestling last summer with the thought of how I could be making any difference in such a short time in Zambia when the problems are so big. To this day I still find that question to be one that pushes me to do something, anything to make the world even just a little bit better and more just. I know that you are such a gift to your new Zambian friends. Your loving spirit and welcoming smile are a comfort to everyone. Revel in the sunsets and the endless music around you. Your time there will end too quickly but Zambia and your memories of Dipalata’s blue Jesus will stay with you forever.
Kisu mane friend,
Neshia
No-no: so jealous you get to be back in Zambia, but it’s great to see your smiling face with the group. I know your wisdom and servant’s heart is blessing everyone around you. Good work, Chief.
Kyle: I hope you’ve been writing a lot during your experience. I would love to read the poetry you create from this journey.
Dear Stefanie
So I see you received a quick answer to your question: “Why can’t I give them all the information they so desperately want to know?”
I believe you gave them just what they needed, a tool to worship. What is the power of worship?
Worship creates a place for God’s presence. Where God’s presence is, there will be power. Where worship is released, God’s presence will abide. Our hearts are the ground on which the battle is decided. If we will worship, God’s power and rule will be established in and through us to flow to others.
You are so beautiful from the inside and outwardly. Your blog made me cry. Your poem so eloquently expressed your beautiful and selfless heart. “Blessed are the pure in heart, For they shall see God.”
Grace and peace to you and all of Group 2
Stefanie- my African Queen,
Your beautiful post had me trying to hold back tears while at work today. Everything you have grasped in your post is exactly the same feelings I had while in Zambia, and especially when faced with the culture shock upon returing home. I am so glad that you are able to witness the pure love and happiness of the Zambians, and they in return get to share in your selflessness and sweetness (and I HOPE they have shown off their crazy dance moves :D). I know you are learning so much, and I am so excited for you to bring it back to the US! I know it will soon be over, but cherish every second you have left with your group and with the people.
I love you so much, and I can’t wait to hear every moment and detail of your adventures.
Nolan-
I hope you are having an incredible second journey, and have developed an even stronger passion for the culture you fell in love with two years ago. I miss you too!
Peace,
Kayleigh Junk
Stefffff,
So glad to hear that you are having a wonderful time and cant wait to see all the wonderful pictures that I am sure you are taking. It was wonderful to be able to read about what being there is teaching you and it makes me want to do something like this. I have so much to catch you up on when you get home cause in the month that you will have been gone I have had a bunch go on that I want to tell you about. I think about you everyday when I am reading the blog from all of you and hoping that you are having the time of your life and being safe. I was able to talk to Kristina and she says HI WATSON and hopes that you are having the time of your life and is missing you too. Cannot wait until you come home and we can celebrate you being home and you graduating from gonzaga since we never celebrated that. There is a red hook date in our future. Miss you tons and cannot wait to see you. I am so proud of the difference that you are making there. Be safe and see you soon. xoxoxo Kelsey
Hi Stef!!
Oh I loved your blog!! I’ve been waiting patiently for yours and Nolan’s entries so I was so happy when I saw all your girlfriends posting it on facebook! Nolan, you better hurry up because I’m getting antsy…
One of the things I remember best about Zambia is beautiful Pepytrex– that man’s smile was dynamite. It brings a smile to my heart thinking of him with your guitar– there were many times in Zambia when I wondered when it was ok to give gifts to Zambia friends. The guitar is undoubtedly a wonderful gift that I’m sure will bring both Pepytrex and the people of Diplata so much joy. I would love to see a photo of Pepytrex, you, and the guitar if you get the chance!!
Continue to enjoy every last drop of your adventure, Stef! I’m excited to hear about it when we cross paths again.
Nolan, hurry up and write a blog please.
KISU MWANE!
Nicole
STEFANIE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
It’s so good to hear from you. I’m thrilled that you and the others are experiencing the overwhelming kindness, generosity, and love of the african people I’ve only heard, read or seen on TV. I know this trip will stay with all of you forever. That’s so cool that the backpacker found a new home and owner, sounds like it’ll be well used. I miss you very much and can’t wait to hear your stories. I love you very much little sis!
Slimy Slug Bait,
Jesse
Stef,
I’m in awe of your post! I didn’t know you were such an amazing writer and poet! You are so wise to recognize the joy and happiness that the African people have without material possessions. What an incredible experience you have had, to be part of and feel their joy! How lucky they are to have been touched by your spirit and left with the gift of music.
I am so happy for you that you have had this opportunity! I still am amazed that you could get everything in one backpack:)
Look forward to seeing you this summer and hearing more!
Love and Hugs, Shelley Maurer
Dear Stephanie,
Thanks so much for your photo and post. You are experiencing so much in a short period of time. Love your poem! We will continue to pray for you and your group there and look forward to hearing more when you return…. Did find information about the hospital and amazing work that takes place there ….
We send our love,
U. Erick and A. Ginger
Stef,
You are such an amazing girl. I am so glad that you have been filled to the brim with love for the people you are meeting and the experiences you are having. You are such a beautiful person inside and out and I know you are enjoying every moment and I am so happy that you have had such an amazing opportunity to reach out to others in this often unfair and calloused world to provide a little light on an others life. This experience is something you will always cherish and I am on pins and needles to hear about everything you have done and all you have learned. I love you so much my little shining star!
xoxox
Allie
Stef,
I am so grateful to hear how meaningful your time in Zambia has been. Although difficult at various times, you are the kind of girl to find the silver lining in even the darkest of clouds. Your perspective is truly one of the things I admire about you most. It is so wonderful that you had the chance to make it to Africa– know that you’ve got a lot of Gonzaga friends thinking about you, and sending love your way each day! I’m so excited to see and hear about the journeys you’ll continue to go on. Cherish the remaining days you have in Zambia!
Love,
Ashley
P.S. Fr. Nolan, you are missed. Looking forward to reading your post, so I’ll take this chance to remind you to write one. Unfortunately, I’m not an office-yell-away from editing for you, but I’ll trust that B.A. in Communications to get the job done. Thinking of you often, and hoping this second trip to Zambia is all you’ve hoped it to be! Love!
Stef
My heart is deeply moved when your mom shares each of the daily blogs with me. I’m impressed with how vulnerable each of you is in sharing very deep and sensitive reactions to the joy the Zambians find in the simple expressions that we all accept as entitlements. The spontaneous smiles, handclasps, and total acceptance of each of you is a beautiful gift that might easily be taken for granted. Our family grew up with a plaque on the wall by our breakfast table that read, “To love and be loved is the greatest joy on earth.” Their expression of love and acceptance is a priceless gift, and your equally loving response is just as sincerely accepted by them as something they will always hold dear in their hearts. “And now abide faith, hope, and love, these three: but the greatest of these is love.” (Philippians 13:13)
Love,
Grandma (Proverbs 3:5,6)
Oops, I didn’t get it all down…Grandma continues…
Your blog today was such an expression of that love, shared by others and returned by you. I read the poem to Kathleen and we both shared a sniffle or two, the good kind. I love you very much. Grandma
Oh my goodness Stef, I hardly know where to begin with the wide range of emotions I’m feeling right now. They’re actually going all over the place! First of all, I just have to tell you I love you with all my heart. You are an incredible young lady and I’m so proud that you are my daughter. You have been sweet and exceptionally caring ever since you were very little, always been more concerned about others than yourself. I’m not surprised to see your heart full of caring and compassion as you experience all that you are in Zambezi.
It’s good to hear my own sweet Stef coming through in your post. For those of us who have the even waiting for a post, the wait has been long, but worth every minute. I appreciated you sharing exactly what you were feeling at different times during your brief, but very meaningful, time in Dipalata. We all could feel your frustration, despair and then your resolve not to stay in that frame of mind. We saw you take the hands of the little children, even though your heart was still heavy, we saw you stop and listen to the music and your mood began to change. I honestly feel music is such a gift from God, it touches the soul like no other thing I know.
When you think about it, God gave you a gift in Pepytex. The sunset couldn’t touch your soul that evening, but the music of Pepytex playing the guitar and the choir practicing could. Not only that, but God was touching your heart to know that He had helped you find a home for your that little guitar . God is good, Stef. You listened to your heart, even though it was heavy…and look what happened! You were blessed by music and, as Arlene already said, God led you to give not only Pepytex, but the people of the Dipalata a gift that will touch all of their lives for years to come. Maybe we can send a set of strings, with the Chindele from Gonzaga, that visit each year! ‘cuz Pepytex will play that guitar with all the beauty and passion that fills the souls of the residents of Dipalata to over flowing..
My sweet Stef, I LOVE your poem. I know it came from the depths of your heart. I know you just let the words flow. The photo was so expressive. A touch of a hands. A human touch to human touch. Another gift from God to all of us whether we live here or in Zambia. However, that holding of hands, that all your teammates have referred to, somehow seems more meaningful in your setting…more genuine….just pure caring and love with no strings attached.
I love you so much, Stef. Thank you for sharing from your heart.
Love you more,
Xoxo Mom
P.S. Your Uncle Tom decided to comment on Face Book! That Uncle Tom, he likes to do his own thing…and that’s what we love about him, most!
Dear Stephanie,
You are an amazing poet!
Goosebumps goosebumps and goosebumps is what I got as I read your post. All I know that once a person learns how to question internally – it never ends. I see it as a gift that many in this world will never get. Aren’t you a lucky one? You are finding your inner strength – your dad feels it and I am pretty sure you mom feels it too along with all your friends/family as well. Great job!
When you come back, I would love to meet you in person. The smile that you will bring with you will have no match! I just know it. You are walking towards your inner freedom and you will find it scary time to time – but nobody is stopping you – right?
“Through the Strings of a Guitar” to everybody’s heart – you have a way to say it!.
Happy thought for you and your group.
(I volunteer at Evergreen Hospital – your mom and I will hug and shed tears of joy)
Dear Stephanie:
There is nothing like friends, music, the open sky, a fire and a guitar.
How simple and peaceful. Hang onto the “road less travelled” for the rest of your life.
This was beautifully written. Thank you.
Fondly, Barb
PS Anne, all is calm. Love you. Mom
Hello Stef!
I’m so happy that the people around you were able to lift your spirits and help you to see things a little differently. The people you’ve come to know have much to be proud of, and yes, even grateful for. They live simple, humanistic lives as you do; together, you guys make a pretty powerful force.
Best to all,
Ann
PS – Paigey-girl, Bill and I are in Tupelo, having a really good week. There’s so much humidity, my hair has a life of it’s own. But I’m pretty sure I saw Elvis at the new Sonic, so it’s pretty much worth it. So happy to see you! We all love you very, very much. xxx
Hi Steffie–I enjoyed your narrative and poem so much–we were both very touched not only with your physical descriptions but also the feelings and emotions you imparted along with them. Once will never be enough to read this through–I’m already on my second read through. Things are ticking along here as usual–my shoulder is getting stronger and the PT is very welcome–today I was able to drive there for the first time. It was so exciting that I drove on to Home Depot for plants for our yard and hanging baskets. Well, time to stop for now–please remember how much we love you and are praying for you. Continue to drink in every moment–we’re dying to learn through you!
Dear Stef,
I am so sorry that I haven’t posted yet, I kept wanting to set time aside to truly soak up the Africa experiences relayed through each and every post and prepare myself for the nostalgia I would feel in return. However, your post kicked my butt into gear, made me cry, and made me miss you more than ever.
I’ve never seen your thoughts expressed in writing; I knew you were smart but damn Stef! You’re a literary genius. Your poem, obviously amazing. Those excerpts are the types of things that truly get through to people; the fewer words the better, and the more places people are left to travel with their thoughts.
I miss your kind spirit and like Claire said, your huge smile. Everything about you is so heartfelt and I envy the time that you get to spend reflecting on the Zambians as they celebrate with nothing but love and happiness right in front of you.
I understand the frustration you are going through trying to figure out why these people don’t have the resources we do, when it’s so obvious that they deserve better. It must hurt you a lot more being right in front of it, it sure hurts my heart all the way over here in the hick, southern butt crack of the US. 😉 While it’s frustrating witnessing the poverty and lack of resources available to such amazing people, it makes you reflect on what really matters in life. Maybe it’s God’s gift to them to only give them the bare minimum because they are such caring beings that they are capable of handling hardship and celebrating the glory of the restricted material possessions that come along with it, or don’t come along with it for that matter. For it’s true that God only gives us what we can handle. In a way they are lucky that they don’t have to deal with all the crap. The daily narrow-minded focus we have on computer and TV screens in America is something that they are ignorant of and a lot of the time I wish that I wasn’t subjected to it.
In regards to the frustrations you’re feeling, I’m sorry. It’s one of those things that you feel you won’t ever find the answer to, and if there is an answer, you find yourself asking what is a small person like me out of the 7billion people in the world going to do about it? Well think about it this way, the philosopher Titus Levy once said that we fear things in proportion to our ignorance of them.
Those Zambians feared computers and the lack of education they had with them. They don’t know their potential, they don’t know how to use them and frankly, we don’t know the potential of computers as well! You provided those kids with the opportunity to break through a barrier of fear and ignorance. They have realized that everyone has potential no matter the small amount of resources that they start out with.
I know it’s despairing when trying to compare the small amount of time you were able to be with these children, to the amount of attention and care we all received while growing up. However, just take a step even further back and realize: you were there. This is a period of time that they will all cherish and remember forever. You made a difference and an impact on their lives, and we all applaud you for that. You’re an amazing person Stef and the steps that you’re taking are grand and don’t ever forget that. I love you to death, I miss you so much and I cannot wait to see each other and go through all the amazing stories you now have to offer! Friendship is priceless and you will be able to connect with these people for the rest of your life. Keep doing amazing things, be safe and ride those elephants home to me! Xoxo forever,
Lauren
Stef,
Hi baby! I miss you so very much. I would first like to start off saying that I am so very proud of you and very blessed to have you in my life. I cannot even begin to understand what it is truly like there, but your words have given me some insight. You are a beautiful writer and your words have jumped off of the page and right into my heart.; the poem especially. While reading this I have felt so many different emotions, but most of all pride that I can call you one of my best friends. I can understand your asking yourself how you are able to make a difference in such little time. However it is important to recognize that time, no matter the amount, is precious. You are sharing your time with these people as they are sharing it with you. You are sharing your time just as those that have come before you and those who will come after. Every little moment counts and adds to the change that is being made by people that have chosen and will choose to participate in this journey. Even the fact that you chose to do this, chose to give your time to these people is something that you should be proud of. It takes a special type of person to do that and to truly integrate that selflessness into who they are. You are making a difference there and that is so profound. You are doing all that you can, learning, educating, changing, truly “seeing” and in a sense I feel that is a part the “more.” With the change that you are making you are changing as well. You are a wonderful person and this experience will only add to your wonder. I can feel the clarity of mind in your words. Sometimes it takes something simple to allow us to see a different perception of the world- that is a beautiful thing. The freedom that you describe must be something so amazing to witness; again something can be said for the beauty of simplicity. Thank you for sharing this experience and giving the rest of us a little peak into your amazing adventure. Know that I am with you in spirit and thinking of you every day. I can’t wait to see you in person and hear all of your amazing stories.
I LOVE you!
Always and Forever,
Bliss
PS you look tan 😉
Steffy,
This post and poem are absolutely beautiful! Reading this made me cry and realize how much I miss you already (has it really only been a month since I last saw you?!) You are such an unbelievable young woman and I am so proud to call you one of my best friends. Hearing your distress prompted me to begin looking for verses of encouragement for you but I found this quote by Anne Frank that I thought better fit with your situation instead. She said, “How wonderful it is that nobody need wait a single moment before starting to improve the world”. This is exactly what you are doing. Never doubt the difference you are making while there; even if it may seem insignificant to you. You are living out your faith in the most remarkable way. I can’t wait for you to come so you can tell me all about your adventures!
I love you! Be safe!
Jessica
Steffie!!!
We all got together tonight to celebrate all of the June birthdays and passed around your blog entry. We enjoyed reading your guitar story and so happy it found a new home. Jake was very impressed by the pickup story. We are all so proud of you and can’t wait to hear all of your tales when you are back. It’s another great reason for us to all get together! You won’t believe how big Virg and Emmett are and how much energy they have, and even baby Claire is feisty. We miss you!!!
You are missing our beautiful rainy weather, we can’t wait for you to bring the sunshine back to us!
Love,
Karla, the birthday boys (Jesse, Bud, Brian), Jake, Chris, Shauna, Virgil, Emmett, Claire, Amy, Linda, Steve, Jennifer, Hector!
Greetings from Carolina! I’m bored at work so I decided to check out your blog on my iphone during lunch break. I enjoy the information you provide here and can’t wait to take a look when I get home. I’m surprised at how quick your blog loaded on my phone .. I’m not even using WIFI, just 3G .. Anyways, awesome site!