A Day of Celebration: by Kris Knoepfli and Leo Gervais
It was a day of mixed emotions! We arrived at Namasalima School at the usual time for a day of celebration and thanks for all the hard work that had been accomplished over the last few weeks.
There were speeches, awards, the handing over of the borehole (water well) and smiles across everyone’s faces. Among the many highlights were the netball and football (soccer) tournaments, which culminated in a game with all of us “mzungu” out on the field with some of us falling during play. The roars of laughter could be heard in neighboring villages.
We also learned today that approximately 20% of our little friends at Namasalima are HIV positive. A sobering thought. We were comforted some by the enthusiasm of the students’ embrace of the Grass Roots Soccer program (adopted by Dignitas for the Rotary Chachoka-Aids, Kick-a-Ball to Africa program) that focuses on educating the students about HIV and its prevention. The message was clear – “You simply can’t tell who’s infected from looking at them.” A message that appears to be sinking in slowly, but surely! As one of our friends from Dignitas commented tonight - “we ARE winning the battle, every day we’re here!” Positive words that re-energized us all!
Above is a photo showing Sandy from Dignitas and Linda, our fearless team leader, with the children in the foreground. We felt this picture symbolized the partnership that now exists among NGO’s and service organizations that are working together to improve the lives of thousands around the world.
As we waved farewell, the little girls anxiously grabbed our hands to say “good-bye”. Moments that would bring tears to anyone’s eyes.
As a cohesive team, we reminisced tonight about the highlights and challenges the last few days presented. Overwhelmed by how quickly a home away from home can be established, united we look forward to a new adventure tomorrow!
“Richness is not found in the things we have, but the moments we share with others!”
It was a day of mixed emotions! We arrived at Namasalima School at the usual time for a day of celebration and thanks for all the hard work that had been accomplished over the last few weeks.
There were speeches, awards, the handing over of the borehole (water well) and smiles across everyone’s faces. Among the many highlights were the netball and football (soccer) tournaments, which culminated in a game with all of us “mzungu” out on the field with some of us falling during play. The roars of laughter could be heard in neighboring villages.
We also learned today that approximately 20% of our little friends at Namasalima are HIV positive. A sobering thought. We were comforted some by the enthusiasm of the students’ embrace of the Grass Roots Soccer program (adopted by Dignitas for the Rotary Chachoka-Aids, Kick-a-Ball to Africa program) that focuses on educating the students about HIV and its prevention. The message was clear – “You simply can’t tell who’s infected from looking at them.” A message that appears to be sinking in slowly, but surely! As one of our friends from Dignitas commented tonight - “we ARE winning the battle, every day we’re here!” Positive words that re-energized us all!
Above is a photo showing Sandy from Dignitas and Linda, our fearless team leader, with the children in the foreground. We felt this picture symbolized the partnership that now exists among NGO’s and service organizations that are working together to improve the lives of thousands around the world.
As we waved farewell, the little girls anxiously grabbed our hands to say “good-bye”. Moments that would bring tears to anyone’s eyes.
As a cohesive team, we reminisced tonight about the highlights and challenges the last few days presented. Overwhelmed by how quickly a home away from home can be established, united we look forward to a new adventure tomorrow!
“Richness is not found in the things we have, but the moments we share with others!”
6 comments:
WOW!
You guys are among the most amazing folks I've ever read about!!!
Where do you get your energy?
Love reading your blog!
Keep up the fabulous work!
If the world was made up of people like you, everyone would have a smile!
Ted.
Kris et al,
It is great to read your updates, sharing your experiences and emotions. Keep up the great work.
Cheers!
Norm
My comment is this:
I am proud of my Mom and I'm proud of you all.
I hope to join you one day.
Drew
Leo, I keeping looking for you in the pictures.
Lynn
Kris,
Looks like you are getting accomplished and the kids look happy.
Keep up the great work and hurry home!
Dawn
Hey Kris!
You look so happy and peaceful. I am so proud of the work you are doing and I know the people in Malawi are very thankful.
If you are thinking of work back home - DON'T ! There will be plenty of time for that when you return.
Miss you lots, will check in on you again soon.
Fay
Post a Comment