I could have never predicted that a place so foreign would change so much inside of me. It still amazes me that in one short month my life was shaken by the Mountain Kingdom of Lesotho.
I had the opportunity to travel to Lesotho in the summer of 2011 with Wittenberg University. When I asked fellow students about their past experiences, they had trouble finding to words to explain how life-changing it was. They lit up with excitement talking about their trips and their love for a place they spent such a short time in. I had trouble understanding why it was so difficult for someone to explain how it changed their life. Looking back, nothing could have prepared me for the vast emotions I would feel, and now I too struggle with expressing how one short month changed me forever.
When I first arrived in Lesotho, I felt like I was placed in another universe. I was completely immersed in the culture and in awe by its beauty. The sky looked as if it painted with watercolors behind the mountains. Cattle were herded across the countryside by young boys wrapped in brightly colored blankets. On the roadside, men and women purchased grain from small shops made from scraps of metal sheet and barrels. As we drove past, the Basotho people smiled and waved excitedly. I felt so welcomed, at home, and at peace.
Lesotho tested me more physically, spiritually, and emotionally than anything before. I have never shed so many tears or shared so much laughter. There were moments I felt like I could accomplish so much, and times where I felt like there was no hope. At times I grew angry, and numb. But, with every negative emotion, I met someone who made me overwhelmed with joy. I made many new friends among the community while doing self-sustainability projects. It was incredible working side by side, moving toward a common goal. The common goals allowed an opportunity to see similarities between people who live in such different circumstances. I have never laughed so much, or fell in love so quickly with a community. But between moments of laughter, there were moments of sadness and anger. It was difficult to face the realities that were present in such an unbelievably beautiful place. Innocent people across Lesotho were, and still are, dying from AIDS. Many Basotho do not have transportation, let alone access to healthcare or education. Lesotho's complex social and political beliefs make it difficult for change. I could not fathom how this injustice was going on when I was so blessed with what I had at home. I knew in the back of my mind that extreme poverty was in the world, but actually being within it gave a whole knew meaning to its existence. I felt selfish, and undeserving of anything. It was times like this that I felt defeated and hopeless. But when I watched and listened to people who were suffering, they were so strong and resilient. During a time when I questioned my faith, and entire existence, I couldn't understand how innocent people were joyful of life despite being sentenced to a painful death. I admired such optimism. The community is truly a family in Lesotho, and although there may be suffering, there is support. Life is to live through other people.
The Basotho are the strongest, most independent, and beautiful people I have ever met. They have so much hope and love. Lesotho taught me how special life is, and despite what life may hand you, it is up to you to live it. My mind and heart never battled so much in my life, and because of that I am forever changed. The Basotho people gave me more than I can express. I am so thankful to them. A piece of me still lies in Lesotho, and always will.
-Willie Duffy
Willie is currently an intern with Bloom Africa and a junior at Wittenberg University.
