Hello friends, family, and fellow Zags
We are now fully settled into the Zambezi community. Our biological clocks are now somewhat set to Zambian time although many of us had trouble sleeping with the all night gospel singing coming from the church party next door. Unfortunately the music was more invigorating than relaxing! Since we are up each morning with roosters, many of us follow Josh on runs throughout town and we quickly discover that sand is exhausting to run in! Once you step out of the Convent we are staying in, you see heaps of children eagerly waiting for playmates, cameras, and hands to hold. The children seem to be our first link to Zambian culture but tonight we are heading off to homestays where we can hopefully begin to form relationships with the community and begin to learn more about life here in Zambezi.
Today we ventured to Chinyingi to cross the famous Chinyingi suspension bridge and visit Father Francis and his church and hospital. It was fascinating to see the hospital as a future nurse and realize that despite their limitations, they seem to get by with the hard work of one male nurse, Basil, and 16 health volunteers. Today was a day off from our teaching schedules and the journey to Chinyingi proved to be quite the adventure. Driving in bumpy and packed trucks through the bush with our Zambian driver, Traygo , was exhilarating and according to Connor House, “the pinnacle of his life, even cooler than the Presidential Inauguration!” Alhough I have never seen an Inauguration, I would have to agree. We all discovered our love of Zambian “Zed” music and on the drive home picking up Traygo’s friend turned our ride into a Zambian dance party complete with hilarious dance moves from our new friend.
Amidst the most welcomed exhaustion, dirty feet, and endless hours of dances, songs, games and adventure, one conversation with a local man caught my attention. After attempting to greet and introduce my self in fragmented Lunda or Luvale, he immediately asked me “what are you bringing u?” I was caught off guard by this direct question. I knew that it was filled with assumptions yet it was a valid question. I told him about our different programs: Health Education, Literacy, Computers and, yet I still struggled with this question. What can I, Hailey Baker, and my fellow Gonzaga peers bring to Zambia and its people?
After spending just a few days here in Zambezi and while now writing this blog I realize that I do not have the answer to this question just yet, in fact I may never know exactly what I am bringing to Zambezi or the impact I will have. I have always been the type to seek out the answers, to draw conclusuons, or to analyze and rationalize my thoughts. Yet here in Zambezi I am flooded with emotions, expectations, excitement and fear and this combination I cannot fully make sense of. Although I may not have all the answers or the secret to studying abroad in Zambezi, I must focus here on the present. Focus on the sweet songs and handholding with the two little girls, Gift and Memo, that have seemed to claim me. Focus on the laughter in dance games and songs with the children, the impromptu converstations in the market and the constant greetings and welcoming from the locals. I must focus on the sunsets, ways to help my students be more healthy, and the friendship bracelets I have promised to so many. Most importantly I must give Zambezi my heart as this beautiful community has already captured mine.
Kisu Kisu Mwane (Blessings)
-Hailey Baker, Class of 2014
Hailey, I loved reading your blog…and smiled at the picture seeing you all looking so happy….thank you! Yesterday I saw the quote…”enjoy the little things in life, for one day you may look back and realize they were the big things.” Maybe because I’m missing you so much, but I immediately thought about you holding a little hand and I’m sure sharing your lap for a “little” one to sit on…and i teared up knowing that my baby girl has grown up. It also made me think about how I laughed and said “Katie if your head wasn’t attached to you, you’d lose it,” well, if you lose anything don’t worry because those lost items don’t matter. You’ll never be able to lose what does and thats your “golden” heart. Take in all the “little things” because the difference you’re making on the people in Zambezi, and the impact that the ” little things” that community is doing for you, are truly big and will be with you all forever! Keep holding those little hands, soak in every little moment and know that we’re counting the days till youre home! Love you all the way to Zambia and back! (((Hugs))) to everyone! ~Mommy
Great posting. I’ve always found that every so often it’s important to so some thoughtful introspection to discover vital truths about oneself. I’m still really envious of the opportunity you’re all experiencing and hopefully this isn’t the only time in your lives that you go off on an adventure. Pretend that it it though so that you maximize the moments. Megan, we love you and if you don lose anything make sure it’s not the camera!!!!!!
Gotta go, Dad
P.S. How many little Zambezitonians are running around town saying “gotta go”. I need a number . (I don’t know how to input a little yellow smiley face but visual one here)
I love these posts and they are so truly from the heart of those who have written them. I have been on missions to Tijuana and can only relate to how those people welcomed us and how the children “owned” us and know it is multipled a million times over in Zambia. The joy that you are all expressing and that is communicated in the pictures we have seen so far is amazing and I know that the Zambezi people feel it. When asked “what can you do” or “what can you bring”, besides what you have been sent there for (teaching, nursing,etc), just BE PRESENT. That is what these people are looking for – be with them and just BE. You will look back on this and realize in the end, it was all about the relationships. Love to you all. Miss you Shaun!
Ah Megan. Your smile in the group picture says it all for me. You are smiling with your whole being. Each day I rush to see if there is a new writing on the Blog. Hailey’s writing made me visualize you all dancing and singing and hand holding. I can’t think of a better place for you to be. The picture was what I needed to see. Thank you so much for each time someone pours their heart into the Blog. It makes you seem so much closer. (Great skirts by the way)…You all look wonderful and loved. Take care and I love you Megan. Mom!!!!
Awesome ~ once again. You can feel it, see it, hear it, smell it, and touch it (all within the blog and picture). However, you are all taking this experience beyond that. Each of you on this adventure are taking this into your heart, mind, and soul. That is what is creating the lasting memories and your impact. Bring your passion and love for life into your relationships and your engagements with the people of Zambezi and others you will meet along the way. They will sense your love and passion. Enjoy and GOD BLESS! You make me smile! ~ Monte
Hello all! Hailey, your words took me back to what I can’t believe was a year ago already! Special greetings to Josh, Susan, Mateo, and our Zambian friends, especially Brother Gregory and Mama Kawatu. I see she has already taught you ladies the ins and outs of chitenge fashion! And I laughed out loud picturing Traygo driving the van to Chinyngi. Is he still eagerly looking for an American wife?! 🙂 I am so excited for all of you and the incredible journey that lies ahead for each and every one of you! Take advantage of every opportunity before you, especially the ones that scare you a little or push you beyond your comfort zone. Embrace the dirt, the cold showers, the rats and spiders, the sunrises and sunsets, and the little hands that always seem to find their way into yours. Take chances. Go exploring. Linger behind and have that conversation you wouldn’t otherwise have. Keep an open mind, an open heart, and open eyes and ears to everything and everyone. Take time to look up at the stars. Take time to just BE. Hailey, thanks for sharing about your experience thus far. Dave and I eagerly await your daily postings and are excited to follow you on your journey as we remember ours as well. Kisu Mwane, Melissa Houglum (and Uchi the Poochie) 🙂
Have so much fun in Zambia, from the posts it seems like you are all getting used to being away from home. I miss you a lot katie. I hope you are having so much fun with the kids and are taking a lot of pictures. I miss you so much, but I am glad you get to do something like this. I hope you don’t miss home too much, have fun in Zambia, and be in some of the pictures too (dont be like mommy and just take them). This morning i had a softball game and gues who won? We did. Mabey when you are back we can play together. I wear my pajamas every night, and think about you alot. Again make sure you get lots of pictures of elephants too. i hope you are all enjoying your stay. Have fun, love you Katie.
Hailey & all ZagZambians thank you for letting me share with you in your experience of living, loving, receiving & giving to this beautiful community in Zambia. Your blogs are fabulous!!! Now abide faith, hope & love but the greatest of these is love. May God grant you wisdom, joy, laughter, health, patience and safety!!! I look forward to hearing more. I am praying for you all! Love you Hailey, Aunt Kathy xoxo
It sure sounds like you’re having a lot of fun there with all these cool experiences! I wish I could talk to you more and hear about it personally, but I am happy that I get to at least read this blog and see what you’re up to. I’m also glad that you’re already gaining a lot from this experience just from the couple days you’ve been there and I hope that the learning never stops. I think what everyone in your group is doing is fantastic and can see that you’re all going to make the best of this trip. I can’t wait to hear more from you!
-Andrew
Hailey, WOW what a terrific start to your great adventure. Reading your blog makes me think what a wonderful young woman you have become. Grandpa and I are very proud to you. I know one thing you can bring to the children, is your gift to teach camp songs and dances!!! Bring some of the local dances home to us. You have a wonderful spirit. We love you G-MA & G-PA.
Hi Ally, I find the blog very interesting, and am glad you are taking it all in.
I love you and can’t wait for you to share your stories when you return! Love Grandma
Thank you Hailey for your detailed post and picture, I loved it! These posts are like nourishment to the families back home “starving” for news from our loved ones. It’s interesting that you ponder so much on the issue of what you can “give” to the Zambezi community. You have all made great sacrifices to be part of this experience and your greatest gift (among many) will be your love. This gift is priceless. In the Jesuit tradition of education, you will all share knowledge with the people you meet.
Katie- I’m so glad to see you holding your camera in this picture. Despite Mommy’s post that it’s okay if you lose things…I agree with Larry, don’t lose your camera (or your passport). 😉 as for news from home….Wendy pitched another shutout game, Kourtney has decided to work at Wild Waves again, your mother obsesses about you 🙂 and we all miss you.
Enjoy your breakfast…..travel safely and make great memories.
Love – Daddy
Thanks so much for another great picture! You guys are great! Gotta love those smiles!
Hello everyone! I am so happy to finally find myself in the place to share my experience of following your blog on a daily basis, eagerly anticipating the next post, holding a joy-filled connection with your group. Gratitude was my initial reaction to Mateo’s post from London Heathrow…confirmation that daily postings would be a reality and that I could indeed follow the experience as I felt the miles between us dissolve with each written word. I found myself moved to tears (as you will see, a recurring response 🙂 ) as I read the question, “Where does my comfort zone end?”. Having had a lot longer to settle into my comfort zone, I appreciate the significance of the young people of this group exploring that question at this point in your lives in such a profound way. And, by the way…where does MY comfort zone end and MY life begin? Thank you, Mateo for prompting the question and the tears. 🙂
Relief and gratitude (and tears) came as I read Dr. Josh’s brief and illuminating post and was left with the peaceful vision of young American adults and joyful African children walking to enjoy a beautiful African sunset together…and the words of a song I have listened to with my daughters came to mind, “…240 thousand miles from the moon, We’ve come a long way to belong here, To share this view of the night, A glorious night, Over the horizon is another bright sky…” (Jason Mraz, 93 Million Miles).
I had checked for an update several times on Friday, eagerly anticipating the next installment on the adventure, and was driving my daughter Terra home from having her wisdom teeth removed (which she came through with flying colors), when she checked the blog for me again and her exclamation of joy at seeing a picture of her sister at the top of the blog was in itself enough to put a huge smile on my face. The smile was soon accompanied by (uh…you can probably guess by now ) tears at Terra’s next exclamation of joy at realizing that her sister was the blogger. The heart connection I felt with both of my daughters at hearing one sister’s words and experience being delivered clearly and lovingly by the voice of the other sister was very profound. Tamryn, thank you for letting me (us) see the arrival of your group through your eyes. “A multitude of emotions” is such a perfect expression for the impact your words and those of your companions are having on me…and, from my reading of other posts, other readers, as well. Through your words, I feel your heart is wide-open with the love you are receiving and giving…and this is such a beautiful thing. It is so true that your calm, loving presence is a present to all who know you.
Okay, by now you know the way this goes, and, yes, as I read Haley’s post this morning, I once again found tears streaming down my face. It’s the heart, you see. The heart and courage in your words are having such an impact on my heart. I love the question, “what are you bringing u?”. I know that as you discover more and more about just what you are bringing to the people of Zambezi, you will discover more and more about what you bring to the world…just what is that special gift that comes through your open-hearted, courageous engagement with life…stepping outside of your comfort zone to live, and live and live again.
And finally, you see, while you are all having and sharing this life building/creating/changing experience, the ripple effect on those connected with you, following with you, seeing the experience through your eyes is also so profound. I find myself over-whelmed by the way my own heart is opened and touched and I find myself asking the question for myself…”how will I let this experience change me?” Like Haley, I do not have the answer to this question just yet…and I find myself working on focusing on the present from this place of open-heartedness that the connection I feel with you all is bringing to me. I feel so much love and gratitude to all of you for the gift of presence you are sending through your words. Thank you, thank you, thank you!
Ally, Hayley, Hanna, and Megan – I can only imagine the joy and wide smiles you are sharing with Zambezi and everyone that encompasses it. You girls are truly amazing and I can’t wait to hear about your experiences. Sending so much love and prayer from the US! PS – loving that yellow Al 😉
Syd
P.S. Tamryn, I love you. Mom
Yes Hailey,
You give your heart. Continue to give yourself.
Be whole in that present moment.
Thank you for sharing with us your reflection.
Asante Sana,
Hi, Hailey- Conner House’s Mom here- thank you for your beautiful reflection! You all look so happy in the above photo- such an exciting time for you all! Conner- Dad, Chad and I send our love as well as the entire family! Stay save and enjoy every moment. Love you dearly, Mom.
Hailey, thank you for sharing your experience so far for all of us to enjoy. I look forward to reading many more posts.
Hayley Medeiros, I hope you’re having a wonderful experience and look forward to seeing more posts about your time in Zambia. We love and miss you very much!
Love,
Dad, Liz, Bobby and Jack
We really appreciate the picture. Not sure I would have been able to walk across that suspension bridge myself! I have seen photos of it. Michelle, it is good to see you smiling. So far you look healthy and happy so I have no doubt you are having the time of your life.
Kaitlyn and I were joking about how traumatic it would be if a group photo were posted one day and someone’s child was not in it – that could make a parent’s heart skip a beat! Make sure it is not you!
Julia picked malaria for her disease report for science. She wants to make sure you are all following the prevention tips: insecticide, cover up after dark, and have your bed net tucked in tight!
Love, Mom & Julia
Hayley, we are so enjoying reading of your adventure! 🙂 Your “significant’s” group has yet to post a word! 🙁 They had engine trouble in London and got out of Heathrow 2 hrs late…he took it in stride! After that take-off, we have not heard or read! 🙂 Praying for both of you daily and knowing these experiences are filling up lots of blank pages ! xo, the Dennings! x Chris, Mel & Brie! (and Kasey too!)
Hey Brittany!! I wanted to give you a special shout out and say how excite I am for you to be able to be in Zambezi. You are an awesome nurse and will be such a light to the people there. What a cool opportunity to get to travel the world and end up in Zambia as well. I have to say for me, what I learned about being a nurse in Zambia wasn’t anything that could be taught in a classroom or even clinicals. It was humbling, heart-breaking and heart-warming, eye-opening, and profound all at once. I am so excites to read your blog and hopefully talk with you when you get back about your experiences over the past year. I know awesome things are in store for you to teach and learn and you will do such a great job in your role. 🙂 Take care and I can’t wait to hear from you! Kisu Mwane, Melissa Houglum
So great to hear from you all and looking forward to reading the daily posts. What an amazing experience you are having. I am so grateful to share in this journey with you and your words bring your experience to life. Hailey, I continue to revel in your insights and am so proud of you. I spent the day thinking of you on your “dance party” truck ride, picturing the beautiful sunsets you will enjoy, and most of all, holding hands with Memo and Gift. Truly amazing! We all love you and want you to enjoy every day that you are there. I hope there are more thought provoking questions asked of you because those are the ones that count. Think, feel, reflect…..be your wonderful self. Your gifts are endless. I love you!!
Thank you for the gift of the post and the photo! I wonder for each you what is becoming clearer to you about yourself? What is Africa teaching you today? Remember at the Blessing ceremony in the chapel when Raymond Reyes had you consider three questions: Who are you? Where are you going? What do you have to declare? Think how you might have answered those questions in the moment on that Monday afternoon in College Hall? How would you answer them today? My encouragement is to respond to those three questions often in your journals. You each chose this journey. Why? Remember, a single conversation can change a life. Take care of each other. Look for the small miracles that surround you and know that you are loved by a community of friends and family who are constantly thinking about you and showering you with prayers.
Love to Delaney.
oh dear Hailey and all the team!
I look forward to these posts, even as I am struggling to manage the time difference and figure out what you might be doing as I write this. This post is lovely, just full of the spirit and light that seems to shine out from each of you in the picture. Cherish and mark every moment, cause they will fly by. Those children know whats important, so continue to pay attention to them and let them lead you when you can. Joyous adventures seem to abound, so keep being open to them as they come.
Lucy bear, your smile shines like light in the darkness. Even though I miss you with a palpable ache, I am so filled with joy that you can be in that place, at this time, having these experiences. Keep your heart open and receive all that God has for you, go beyond yourself, continue to share your heart with vulnerability, and rest knowing that we all love and pray for you all DAILY.
I walked the stage yesterday, graduated and received my hood and diploma. It was a most marvelous day, and the culmination of so much hard work and sacrifice from my family. The only spot on the day was your absence, but I know your heart was there with us a bit all the way from Zambezi. Mr. Skipper is excited to try the Zambia Gold honey I gave him, and Collin leaves tomorrow for Brazil. Your dad made my celebration stupendous and I was surrounded by love and joy.
Be strong and courageous, do not fear, for the Lord is with you always.
Love to Zamezi and all,
Mom and Dad Baldwin
Hi Hailey and fellow ZambeZags!
I am one proud friend! I loved reading your blog post. I could so easily picture all of your adventures–amazing what can happen in four days! I cannot wait to hear all about it when you get home. You’ll have to teach me all the lingo when you return. I tried to Google how to say certain sentences, but apparently there are over 70 languages/dialects in Zambia (according to Wikipedia). I think I’ll leave the teaching to you…
Ran into Krystyn and Maddie yesterday, and saw Mark, Megan, Lucia and Olivia at Costco from afar (Lucy in her sparkly Toms). I think it’s safe to say that you have a pretty big fan base here in Washington! I know I’ve said this a million times, but I am so proud of you (all of you!) and know that you have just as much to offer to the people of Zambezi as they have to offer you. Gift and Memo sound very special. Keep that challenging question from the local man close to your heart. I think it will offer you valuable perspective and an opportunity for growth. I look forward to your next post, and can’t wait to hear all about your incredible journey. You and the rest of the wonderful group are in my thoughts!
Love,
Shannon
PS) Love the pictures!