Personal Journal from Volunteers in Mission Trip to Zimbabwe

June 22, 2000 - Thursday

Whew! This was a full day. Still really nothing accomplished. Time does run differently in this culture. It's like "Oh well". If we could adjust, it might mean a less stressful life. Somehow, I can't imagine being so laissez faire about time and completing things.

The shipment of books via FedEx has not yet arrived.

Breakfast was actually good: toast, butter, jelly, cheese and cream of wheat, bananas. I've gotten a banana each meal - something "comfortable" to eat. They served baked potatoes and baked sweet potatoes.

I finally met Andra Stevens today. I've sent and received many emails from her so it was good to meet her in person.

We got a tour of Hartzell Mission area which includes the hospital, orphanage, primary school and high school.

There were several brand new babies. They were all snuggled up in beautiful sweater and blanket sets that looked brand new and handmade. I hope they can grow and have a successful life.

The orphans were being bathed. The 4 and 5 year olds were in class. The teacher was phenomenal. She had taught them so much English and always had one more activity. They sang for us. Some of our group played with and did puzzles with the children.

Laundry at the orphanage was unending. They wash and hang and fold clothes all day long. Everything is community-owned. There is no individual attention. Two of the children had just lost their mother two days before. I would have reached out but know myself well enough to know that it could rip me apart.

We headed back to AU and toured the computer lab. We hoped to send pictures back to the USA but their internet connection was down.

A quick lunch and then off to Hartzell Primary with the computer, etc. Those extra bags we got in London are great for carrying the laptop! Lauren, Kate, Rita and I went. Rita got busy stamping books. Lauren and I proceeded to connect plugs, only to burn out a surge protector. I went on and entered some data for about 20 books. Hopefully, tomorrow we can attempt to print and be certain all will work.

There is no school tomorrow or Monday. So, I will not get to read or be with the students until Tuesday and we leave Wednesday. What a bummer!

We had real mashed potatoes and roast chicken for supper!

JM

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This text is taken from a personal journal of the recent trip to Zimbabwe. Statements made represent the opinions and thoughts of the individual volunteer and are not intended as official statements of the United Methodist Church or Epworth United Methodist Church. This web site is designed & maintained byEpworthSteeple Disciples

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Last modified November 4, 2000