During work breaks or while waiting for more water, cement, supplies etc. to arrive via ox cart, we would talk to the families or play games with the kids. We tried to remember Cat’s Cradle, played football with them, sang songs and played back their photos we had taken, which sent them into fits of giggles.
Spending time with the children is one of my best memories in Zambia, partly because they were so awesome and were open to our silly Mzungu (white) ways and awkward sounding language…kids are so accepting no matter where you go. It never ceases to amaze me how no matter what the language or cultural barrier, kids are kids and smiles and laughter are the universal language they have mastered better than anyone.
Gracious - we will never forget your smile!!!
There are no words to express how amazing these kids are. You couldn’t help but want to spend more time with them - seeing them laugh and smile (even if it took some effort for the shy ones). Talking with them was the highlight of every day for me!
Their songs and games always lightened the atmosphere of the build; everything they did reflected the unanimity of a Child’s innocence across the globe. Yet it wasn’t complicated, no mystery to their joy, the simple fact being that children have the ability to endure so much yet still find ways to have fun, to have the strength to look for something good in everything, to anticipate a smile in the face of a stranger, to have the courage to welcome a caring heart to come and play and be a part of their world, even if temporarily. No wonder kids rub off on us, it is their attitude and outlook on living that inspires us to believe in good and to have hope!
Our mason Godwin's son takes a
nap during the build
This boy had built his own truck, one of many incredible inventions of wire, plastic parts and old flip flops (for tires) we saw made by the children there - amazing craftmanship!
(He wanted a picture but he was too shy to show his face:)
This little girl came running after us as we were leaving the build of the second site, she would wave as the kids were calling my name and yelling goodbyes, but then we would look back and she would shyly look down...I'll never forget this memory of her following out after us...her sheepish smile and waves...we had to go back to Mr. Wilson's but somehow I just wanted to go back and stay there longer...
The lovely little Florence & Shingai, Mr. Wilson's daughter & granddaughter
It was hard work but each team member did what they could. Overall, it was difficult to keep up with the Zambian workers, who impressed us with their strength and ability to do things with little or no tools and their endurance even in the extreme heat.
Ennie was a strong woman, both in body and mind, and proud of it too. As with many of the women there, she could outdo me on so many occasions. She would jokingly tease me about her being stronger than me, despite already having five children by 25 years! I told her there was no way to even compare our strength and I completely conceded to this most obvious fact. She was so looking forward to the new house being built, with more space for her family in what would be a stable, dry structure. Her attitude inspired me to work harder, and I enjoyed her resilience, character, humour and charm so much!
There was always time for a a good laugh and a 'snap' (picture)... Bruce with Godwin (right) and a neighbour
Both families we were building with were thrilled to have us as part of the team, and helped wherever they could, whether with building, moving bricks, cooking or simply guiding or encouraging us along the way!
Many of the children joined in as well, and insisted on carrying the 15 pound bricks from the kiln to the build site. Even the 3yr olds who looked as though they were barley tall enough to lift these heavy objects were helping.
And yes, we were reluctant in having them help, but the parents were encouraging it and they were persuasive with their eager smiles and convincing strength.
Both families we were building with were thrilled to have us as part of the team, and helped wherever they could, whether with building, moving bricks, cooking or simply guiding or encouraging us along the way!
Many of the children joined in as well, and insisted on carrying the 15 pound bricks from the kiln to the build site. Even the 3yr olds who looked as though they were barley tall enough to lift these heavy objects were helping.
And yes, we were reluctant in having them help, but the parents were encouraging it and they were persuasive with their eager smiles and convincing strength.
A humbling experience, it was hard not to cry seeing their persistence and determination.
Every time I felt too hot or tired, seeing the children reminded me I could do just a little bit more.
Every time I felt too hot or tired, seeing the children reminded me I could do just a little bit more.
Our little helpers were so happy to be a part of the build, and even though we tried to hand the broken smaller brick peices to the small ones (a full brick weighed 15 lbs!), I'm sure they even they outdid us in the assembly line!
Throughout it all, Simon was there to guide us and kept our spirits up with his energy, positivity and support. I think I speak for everyone when I say we all shared such an admiration for this incredible man!
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