Savor the World

At the age of nineteen, I encountered the country of Lesotho in a state of wonder. How could such simplicity be so beautiful? How could we provide hope amidst so much brokenness? How did I get to be born into a comfortable lifestyle while other children lacked education, health care, or even an actual pair of shoes to play outdoor games? It was four weeks of an emotional overload of images; there were trees visible because of the outline of stars behind them, there was Scott Hospital in Morija where patient after patient presented symptoms of tuberculosis resulting in a chest x-ray resulting in an HIV test, there were children laughing on a playground while they waited to be called into the Baylor Pediatric AIDS Clinic for their appointment, there were conversations around a fire where college kids tried to make sense of the world they were witnessing each day. 

Almost two years later I still find myself struggling between trying to save the world and trying to savor the world. Every day it seems I pick up lessons that make the work done in Lesotho more worthwhile. The Wittenberg trips led by Dr. Rosenberg, as well as Bloom, truly do service the right way in how they work directly with the Basotho to learn their needs and then build projects that address them rather than having an outside agenda that they to implement on the country. However, recently through a few community service reflections sessions I have been a part of, I’ve begun thinking of our time there in different ways. One professor labeled service as a way of interrupting death; there are people in this world who humanity has written off and declared dead in a sense, but through service sometimes we have the blessing to interrupt that and remind the individual that he or she matters and has a role to play on this earth. Another professor spoke of the importance of viewing service as a healing of loneliness rather than trying to fix something. Lesotho cannot be overwhelmingly changed by one group of Wittenberg students travelling to the country, but we could show love and heal through that, and we could create conversation in ways other than spoken language to remind a child that we are all the same.

I hope every person can get the chance to witness the gentle beauty of the Mountain Kingdom. When I returned home from the trip, a friend from school interviewed me about the trip for a writing assignment for class. After listening to me, he simply entitled his essay, “Magnificence.” It was the best four weeks I’ve had the chance to live. I feel absolutely blessed by the opportunity I was given through Wittenberg, and continually blessed by what Bloom has continued to do in this nation. There is life without love but it is not found in Lesotho, and I have grown to believe it is not found in those who spend time in that country as well.

-Evan Cameron

Evan is studying medicine at Wittenberg University.

The Chance To Be A Child

It is safe to say that I think about my experience in Lesotho every day. Even though it has only been two months since our trip, I feel like it was yesterday that I was living in the beautiful Mountain Kingdom. My experiences, the people I met and the friendships I made will forever be memories that I hold close to my heart. One experience I would like to share with you, is about our morning spent at the Baylor Pediatric AIDS Clinic. It is tradition for the Wittenberg trips to go to Baylor and throw a carnival for the children waiting to be treated. We have tattoos, bubbles, a parachute, bracelet-making and more. My brother, Zac Daniels, went on the Wittenberg trip in the summer of 2011 and told me about how impactful, yet hard the day at Baylor would be. I started off at the bracelet-making station, which is where I met someone very special. A young girl, around 9, came and sat down next to me and started picking out beads for a bracelet. However, her hands and body were shaking so hard that she could not hold the thread steady enough to add beads. I began helping her by holding the thread, but even after completing a bracelet she was still shaking and had not cracked a smile yet. I decided to take her over to the bubbled station to see if I could break her out of her shell. I began by showing her how to blow the bubbles and her face was filled with wonder. I offered the bubble wand to her and as she blew her first bubble, I finally saw her smile. It was one of the most beautiful things I had ever experienced.

We spent the rest of the day playing with bubbles, the parachute and on the playground.  I swear I have never seen a child so happy in my life. The transformation I witnessed from a scared and shaking child to a happy, carefree, exuberant little girl was incredible.   She didn’t speak one word of English, so I never even learned her name, but she became one of the most important people I’ve ever met. This young girl reminded me about what it means to be a child again and how to have fun without a care in the world.

Every day I spent in Lesotho was memorable and life-changing, but my experience at Baylor AIDS Clinic with this little girl will forever be one of the most important days of my life. Leaving her at the end of the afternoon was one of the hardest things I have ever experienced. I think about her all the time and hope that experiences the wonder of bubbles and the enjoyment of being a child every day.

Ka Khostso,

Kenzie Daniels

Kenzie is a student at Wittenberg University

Alongside Community

As I sit here at O.R. Tambo International airport, I am filled with that intense feeling you get when you leave home.  After an amazing ten days in Lesotho and South Africa, it’s time to head back to Chicago.  (And a 60 degree difference in temperature! Ouch!)  So much of the last ten days revived feelings, tendencies and even vocabulary words from my time as a volunteer in South Africa.   My long walks up the steep dirt paths of Lesotho brought me back to a time of enchantment and discovery.  Once again, I felt vibrantly alive.  I was home.

Admittingly, we didn't take as many photos during our trip this year as we usually have.  (Don’t worry, we still captured all of those awesome High 5 photos!)  The main reason for this was because, for the first time really, we were really part of the community.  Instead of being outsiders from America, fascinated by the intricacies surrounding us, we were members of the communities we were in. 

We walked alongside friends as we learned of new villages.  We danced alongside Team Lesotho as we celebrated a newfound friendship and partnership.  We sat alongside members of the community as we held our first pitso, (community conversation) in Roma.  We laughed alongside children who found our goofiness contagious.  We drank tea alongside old friends and family as we caught up on life.  We asked questions alongside those we wish to serve.  We were wholly, fully, in community with those we are serving, and what an incredible realization it was for us.

I cannot wait until the days when we are amongst the Maluti mountains once again.  I firmly believe the seeds of hope have not only been planted by Bloom Africa, but they have now been watered.  Our new and passionate volunteers in Lesotho will help cultivate the empowerment and hope that these seeds will provide.  I cannot be more excited about the possibilities that rest along the horizon of the future. 

Thank you to everyone who joined us in our journey and supported us through reading our blog, following us on Facebook and Twitter, or who simply wished us traveling mercies.  You are our fire and we will continue to strive for an empowered Lesotho together.

Ka Khotso, (In Peace)

Andrew

The Village in the Sky

Our last two and a half days were spent in Ramabanta, a village about 45 kms up into the mountains from Roma.  It’s a village high up in the Malutis, overlooking gorgeous mountain peaks and waterfalls below.  We didn't witness one cloud in the sky the entire time we were there.  Only blue skies at day and crystal clear constellations at night graced our views.  We have been to Ramabanta on a number of occasions in years, past, and we had to go back.  Over time, we have developed a love for this very special place.  It’s as if there is nowhere else on Earth as peaceful and beautiful as this secluded area in Lesotho.

 On Thursday morning, we went with Tsili, an employee at the guest lodge and friend of ours, to his home in Thaba Bosiu.  We wanted to see his newly established piggery, where 14 new piglets were recently born.  It was fascinating to learn how small pig farming can produce some serious profit for a family.  After spending some more time at his home, we headed up to Ramabanta.

Ramabanta is such a peaceful place that it is hard not to take advantage of the natural surrounding beauty.  We spent some time fishing that evening in a nearby river, which we unfortunately did not catch anything.  We also enjoyed the cool mountain breezes as we sipped our 5 Roses tea and breathed the fresh mountain air.  But it wasn't all R&R for us while we were there.

Fishing for trout in Ramabanta

We spent a day in the village, meeting as many peoples as we could.  Our friend, Lerato Nkesi, is the eldest daughter of the village chief.  She walked us through the village and helped us understand the community better.  We visited some small farms, piggeries, library, a primary school and even met with the village chief to explain Bloom Africa’s vision.  We also stopped by the newly built medical clinic, and had time to ask the nurses their questions about the health issues facing the community.  We spent an afternoon with the principal of the local primary school, and discussed some ways the school and a Community Learning Center could work together. 

High 5!

An exciting development is also taking place.  Later this afternoon, Lerato will be meeting with the Principal Chief of Ramabanta, who has political and traditional jurisdiction over a wide span of land.  She will be discussing our organization and vision of empowerment for the community in Ramabanta.  These are some of the initial steps in a very promising partnership in the years to come.

Lerato walking us through her village

We will soon be heading to South Africa, where we will be attending a special church service in the morning, as well as meeting some young adults who are interested in developing their own NGOs.  As always, we’ll keep you posted along our journey.

Thanks for your continued support.

Ka Khotso,

William & Andrew

Mokhatlo

Today, we participated in our first pitso, or gathering of the community (mokhatlo), to have a conversation.  This is a common way for a community to learn about what is happening and for them to express their opinions.  Usually, the village chief learns of a requested pitso or requests one himself, and then spreads word to the rest of the community that they are encouraged to attend. 

Since Bloom Africa is very interested in what is happening in the Roma community, we were able to be active participants at a pitso held at Leratong Community Center.  We can’t lie; it was a bit intimidating to be participants in this formal meeting environment.  We simply wanted to make sure we were respectful, appropriate, and that the community would understand our mission as an organization.  It took some time, and some critically thought out questions, before the community truly comprehended Bloom Africa’s purpose here.  We were able to explain that we wish to work in partnership and not provide handouts.  We also made sure that we were clear that we wished to work together to empower people, especially the most vulnerable.  After about 3 hours, the pitso concluded, and the community was happy to learn of our work.  There’s a lot of work ahead of us, but this was a giant step in expanding the awareness for our organization.

In the afternoon, we walked up the mountain and deeper into the village.  It’s always special to visit friends we’ve made over the years.  And we think it’s crucially important to simply spend time with people, build the relationships and trust, and get to know them for simply who they are.  So we climbed the mountain to visit with a family we’ve gotten to know, and just spent time talking.  To learn of the good grades the boys are getting in school is so encouraging, and we relished the opportunity to accompany them on a beautiful afternoon.

In the evening, we headed to Maseru, where we had a braai (BBQ) with Team Lesotho.  This was our way of showing thanks to the amazing team that has done so much for us this week.  Team Lesotho not only helped us with the little things, like translating at the pitso, but organized meetings and made invaluable introductions for us.  We are quickly realizing how important Team Lesotho will be for our success as an organization.  So, we hung out and ate some great food.  We also danced.  A lot.  Like, all night.  And it was amazing.  As we danced under the blanket of stars, catching a few shooting stars throughout the night, we cemented friendships that will last a lifetime.  Thank you Team Lesotho!

We will be heading up to Ramabanta on Thursday morning, where we will continue to spend time with the community and having some important meetings high up in the Maluti mountains.  Just a FYI, we will be without internet until Saturday, so stay tuned for more updates in a couple days.

Stay well,

Andrew & William

Wow!

Well, today was William’s first driving experience in Lesotho.  The good news is that he did well, and thankfully for us, he perfected the Lesotho driving by the end of the night when we really needed it.  Today was a very busy and productive day.

William's first Lesotho driving experience

The day started in Maseru, where we met with Ntate Thabong Lerata, whose jewelry we have been selling on our Etsy shop.  It was great meeting Ntate Lerata and learning his story.  He once worked in the mines in South Africa, but because of its closing, he had to return to Lesotho where there was no work.  In order to support his four children, he began making jewelry and other art to create an income.  He makes many items, from straw hats to painted plates to the beautiful earrings and necklaces.  We are thrilled that our support of him and his work will help his family attain stability and allow him to continue to provide for his children.

This afternoon provided one of the most fruitful meetings we’ve had as an organization.  We had a meeting with the Committee that oversees Leratong Community Center.  The Committee is comprised of 8 community members who have been with Leratong since its founding.  We were able to discuss our partnership, and learn about the recent successes and challenges.  One of the amazing parts of the meeting was the inclusion of Ntate Lesoli.  Ntate Lesoli was once served by Leratong, by means of a scholarships and sponsorship.  He was able to attend and finish school, and has recently graduated with honors in business information technology.  And now, Ntate Lesoli is going to build Leratong its first ever website.  Talk about empowerment!

As soon as our meeting was over, he had to jet over to the National University of Lesotho (NUL) to sign in to our live video Google+ feed.  But, when we got to the University, we learned that it’s internet wasn’t going to cut it.  So, we hopped into the car behind William’s brilliance, and sped back to the Guest House where we are staying.  We ran into the house and asked if we could sign into the internet.  With two minutes to spare, we entered our Google+ Hangout.  We apologize to anyone who was frustrated with our being late, but thanks for going with the flow, which is part of life here.

While we were having our Live feed, Team Lesotho was starting a meeting with NUL students.  Over this past week, Team Lesotho has been spreading the word about a meeting with Bloom Africa, and the chance to ask questions and give input.  And, just as we raced to our Google+ Hangout, we zoomed back to NUL and entered the lecture hall out of breath from running to the classroom.  We were ecstatic to see about 50 students waiting to learn more and get involved with Bloom Africa.  And we think the students were relieved to see that we actually exist. 

Addressing the students 

We quickly started with our presentation, and gave a brief background of ourselves and Bloom Africa.  We then discussed our current vision and focus on empowerment, rather than hand-outs.  We then received some wonderful, critical thinking questions about our work and their role in it.  It was so encouraging to see the student’s though process and willingness to speak up and encourage our work.  And as is common with Bloom Africa events held at NUL, Team Lesotho asked everyone to provide anonymous opinions and suggestions after the meeting.  One reaffirming comment read “I’m feeling so inspired with your organization because it empowers orphans, and that was my concern.”  If we can inspire others to inspire others, empowerment is possible.

Bloom Africa and NUL students

Tomorrow we have a pitso, or community meeting, at Leratong Community Center, the first for us.  We will be there with the village chief and other community members, discussing our role at Leratong and how we can be more effective.  The ongoing dialogue between us and our Basotho partners is providing invaluable communication we’d otherwise be without.  It’s truly wonderful to be here.

Ka Khotso,

William & Andrew

Working Together

Well, right after we posted our blog last night, a huge thunderstorm rolled in.  We quickly jetted back to our rondavel (round hut) that we were staying in to avoid being rained on.  Almost as soon as we entered our room, the rain broke and a massive storm rolled in.  The thunder and lightning was simply awesome.  Because we usually visit Lesotho during their winter, experiencing thunderstorms is a bit of a rarity.  And, as the storm build strength, it knocked out our electricity and we had to light candles in our room for light.  It was a great way to wind out our first night in Lesotho.

We are busy getting our high fives for the Put 5 On It campaign

We started the day with Team Lesotho at 7:15AM so we could visit Manonyane High School.  Manonyane (meaning vultures) High School is in a rural setting, about an hour’s walk from where we are staying in Roma.  Team Lesotho set up our first pen-pal program at this high school, so we went to visit the students and teachers who helped set this up.  The pen-pal program was very popular, and many of the students enjoyed writing their new friends in the United States.  We were able to get a tour of the facility and spend time with the principal who explained to us some of the challenges he faces at his school.  After visiting the school and many of its teachers, we were off with the next part of the day.

Andrew & William addressing over 500 high school students

The rest of our day was spent at the National University of Lesotho.  There, we walked around campus greeting students and professors, introducing ourselves.  In anticipation of our meeting with the students tomorrow evening, we were able to greet some classes and invite them to come and hear more about Bloom Africa tomorrow.  But the highlights of our day were our meetings with two NUL faculty members with collaboration being a main topic of discussion.

Our first meeting was with Ledzadzo Kometsi, a lawyer and law professor at the University.  Ntate Kometsi is helping us draft a constitution so we can become a registered NGO in Lesotho.  We will be also working together to help create a Bloom Africa chapter on campus.  He has helped facilitate workshops on campus on behalf of Bloom, and is very involved in advocating for social issues in Lesotho.  One amazing, exciting, thing he does is walk.  This common way of life in Lesotho has given Ntate Kometsi the vision to use walking as an advocacy tool.  Each month, he orchestrates a two day walk, up the mountains of Lesotho, for a cause.  This past month, his group walked to promote advocacy for environmental and wetlands protection.  What an awesome, mission driven person. 

Our next meeting was with Ntate Maraka, the HIV/AIDS Coordinator at NUL.  Ntate Maraka is responsible for creating and stewarding partnerships with NUL and other organizations and institutions when it comes to HIV/AIDS.  He has conducted fascinating studies and research projects about HIV/AIDS and how it affects NUL.  He works closely with PEPFAR and the Global Fund on HIV/AIDS.  He also expressed his excitement to have a Bloom Africa presence on campus.  In addition to providing his professional expertise and support, he will help us partner with the myriad of other organizations working to combat HIV/AIDS in Lesotho.

Team Lesotho and us with Ntate Maraka

The common theme of today was working together to impact orphans and vulnerable children in the community.  After such a wonderful and insightful day, we decided to go for a run before dinner.  At first we didn’t understand how counter intuitive running for “fun” is in Basotho culture.  As we were jogging down the dirt roads and up the hills during a setting sun, people passing us would laugh and smile.  We must admit, we looked pretty darn goofy running, and insanely out of breath. But it was still a beautiful experience, especially since many of the children in the village recognized us and called out our names.  Tomorrow, we will have the opportunity to spend more time in the community and Leratong Community Center to plan out specific next steps collaboratively.

Khotso,

William & Andrew