Author Archives: Zags in Zambezi

“It’s because we work with our hands”

I’ve struggled to understand what it means to be an American. We are “the land of the free,” the country with the most opportunities. People desire to come to America to live out “the American dream.” At times I get … Continue reading

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“You can either kill it or name it”

This was Josh’s response when I inquired about the massive spider in the corner of my shower on our first day in Zambezi. While I was certainly hoping for an enthusiastic offer to kill it for me, I was not … Continue reading

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Expanding my territory

The past 48 hours have been hectic, exciting, unique, and humbling. On Saturday morning, we all helped coach Sports for Life. The goal of this event is to teach children that engaging in physical activity together is not only good … Continue reading

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Discovering that Profound Secret

Today, Friday, June 3, 2022, marks exactly one week since arriving in the vibrant community of Zambezi. As each day passes, we have begun to understand our roles in this beautiful place. Most mornings, I head out for an early … Continue reading

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Place your trust in my hands

Wow. We have been in Zambezi for nearly one week, yet it feels like it’s been a month away from home. Throughout this time, I have been continuously struck by the kindness and trust that has been offered to me … Continue reading

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Snorting contradictions

Every day it feels like the days get shorter, but the laughs get longer. Time here feels different. Part of it might be because I never realized there was a clock in the convent until it fell on Josh’s head … Continue reading

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Saying Hello

Chimene Mwane family, friends, alums, and other community members, Our group is starting to settle into our routine here in Zambezi and our common spaces are coming alive with posters, affirmations, reflective pieces, and poems on the wall. And, of … Continue reading

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Dancing in the Mirror

When I wake up in America, I roll out of bed at the last possible minute. I trudge over to the bathroom with my hair an absolute mess and peer into the mirror seeing the disaster that needs to be … Continue reading

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It’s the Little Things…

Picture this beautiful scene. You have just woken up under the canopy of your mosquito net and jump out of bed, eager to put on your new chitenge, or patterned skirt, beautifully tailored by the talented Mama Mary in the … Continue reading

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Hope in a New Home

Once again, the Zags are in Zambezi! And at long last, Zambezi is more than an abstract prediction or our final destination, but rather a new reality and home. Our group remains in shock and awe of the community we … Continue reading

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