What I miss...

I miss hearing the birds early in the morning when I woke. 

I miss my neighbor walking by at 6 am saying, "Good morning, Madam!" I'd still be sleeping and groggily answer back, "Good morning!" 

I miss the kids coming by and calling out my name. I'd usually greet them, hand them each a piece of chalk and a couple of National Geographics, then walk back into my hut and shut the door behind me. 

Other times I would play Eminado on my phone and dance with them. I miss visits from my friends. They were always unannounced. 

That is how it is over there. Community, friendships, beautiful nature, wonder, love, caring, mystery, and the ancient connections with the natural world...this is what I miss.

My recent visit...crossing a river in the village.

Return to my village...

Two and a half years had gone by and I finally found time to return to my village. I stayed with Eliack and Brenda who acted as my host family while serving. I got to spend time with their two children Sante and Bibusa. Bibusa was only six months old when I had last seen him. He is now three. 

I had a wonderful welcoming by my former neighbor Maggie. She organized a welcoming committee made up of children. They sang songs and danced. 

   
Reunions with the people I worked with was a priority. I spent time with Mr. Mofya - the first farmer who agreed to work with me, Mr. Kahokola - we planted trees together and helped him dig a fish pond, and my interpreter and counterpart Harrison. 

I was busy for the entire 10 days I was in the village. I had raised money prior to my trip for my host father's non-profit Buwame Child Development Foundation. He and I purchased books, educational materials, and paint to paint the walls of the preschool. The non-profit was founded after the sudden loss of my host father's two and a half year old son Buwame. I felt it was appropriate to help move the organization forward as it is difficult to obtain funding within Zambia alone. 

I walked the roads and trails I rode my bicycle on during my service. The sun was hot and the rains were plenty. I had to navigate the slippery mud on my way to and from the outdoor bathroom and shower. I played ball with the children which was the most enjoyable part of my service.