Thursday, August 4, 2011
Reflections on this Incredible Experience
As you think back over the last two weeks, what have you learned about yourself, your faith and more? Each of us have stretched ourselves beyond our comfort zones. Why is this important? How do you think this experience might change you and your service to the world?
I think over these last two weeks I have learned how strong I can be within myself and even though I haven't believed it in the past I do have certain gifts, like I have been told I have a good singing voice, hmmm. I have also thought my faith has become stronger through seeing the passion within the souls of the Batswana people. I have learnt that people can be drawn together in so many ways which is beautiful.
To stretch ourselves is important as we learn more about ourselves, other people and rich new heights of knowledge which can be truly inspiring.
I think I have gained self belief in my own gifts but also seen the bonding of complete strangers in such a short period of time, which is wonderful. I find the second part of the third question hard to answer as I'm not sure!
Georgi
Over the past two weeks I have learnt that when things are difficult I can look within myself and my faith and use it to understand and appreciate the good things, I have also learned a lot about the power of prayer and how it can help me to complete difficult tasks. The people of Botswana have made us feel truly welcome and the atmosphere to develop inn faith has been amazing
I think to stretch out of your comfort zone is the only way you can grow and develop as a person, when we are doing something which we wouldn't usually do we build support networks and we rely on God more readily to help lead us in the challenges.
This experience has completely changed me, my heart will always be in Botswana and with the people who shared in my experiences here. The support and welcoming has been inspirational and I hope to take home a readiness to learn, listen and help wherever possible.
- Emily
Botswana has been an inspiring journey in which I, personally, discovered how lucky we are in other countries around the globe. A few weeks before I came I began having doubts about coming because of personal experiences but as I prayed for guidance on what to do the excitement of coming got stronger and stronger.
I think in the context of comfort zones, I haven't been stretched in the relation to food or accommodation as I had an experience last year in the villages in Tanzania. The reasons I was stretched, was mainly trying to grasp the concept of people's ignorance of how they expected Africa to be and when they didn't get that, they weren't happy but as time went by, I decided each person has their own way of coping with particular things.
Botswana has been a contrast to what I experienced last year as there were cars, comfortable beds and food at the click of our fingers. I feel privileged to have been on the trip as it has allowed me to see both cultures of Africa.
Shaun O'Brien
Over the past two weeks I have had the most amazing experience of my life. In all honesty i think at i have learned to completely love Africa, the different culture and customs, it has all Been amazing, the way worship is over here has also made me realise that no matter how different we are in every aspect of our life, we all have one common belief and that is constantly growing stronger.
It is essential to stretch ourselves beyond our limit as it helps us to grow as people. I know that I have grew an unbelievable amount on this trip, a lot more than I expected. In addition I feel I am a much better person for it.
For starters I know now that I would love to come back to Africa once more and help in any way I can. I didn't know how much this place meant to me until I came. As the bishop said, it felt like I was coming home, and I would certainly offer my service to "come home" again!!
Matthew Dove
Over the past two weeks I have learned so many things about myself that I never knew before. For starters, I learned that in addition to the name my parents gave me, I also have a Setswana name, Mpho Kagiso which was given to me by two youth from Botswana, Patience and Owen. Mpho means gift and Kagiso means peace, a name that I will strive to live up to it. I also discovered that I have a second family half way around the world from my first. My host family went beyond the duties as a host and truly tried to make me feel as welcome as possible and by the third day my host mom introduced me as her second daughter. Her daughter, Tshephi and I decided that as neither of us had a sister, that we would become sisters. They took me on a tour of Gabs and made sure that I knew where the airport was, their reasoning of course was so that when I returned to visit I would be prepared. All in all, this trip has enabled me to find pieces of myself, my family, and friends that I had not yet known.
Prior to this trip, i fancied the Episcopal Church of North Carolina as distant cousins to the Anglican Church of Botswana. As such I expected to be greeted by our counterparts in Botswana as one might greet a distant cousin, friendly but a bit reserved and hesitant because we had never met before. I could not have been more mistaken in this assumption. Throughout nearly all of my experiences on this trip with the Batswana, there was this overwhelming hospitality, genuine interest, and sense of community. This was a welcome, if puzzling, development and my trip was made all the better for it. About half way through our trip, we were invited to dinner at the British High Commissioner's home and through a discussion with Bishop Trevor of Botswana, I began to understand a little more. The Bishop mentioned that there traditionally is not a Setswana word for cousin because they are not differentiated from ones siblings and are thus referred to as brother or sister, as they are part of the immediate family. Armed with this new insight, I was able to unlock the splendid mystery of the welcome that I had received throughout my time in Botswana. I realized that while I had naively assumed I would be greeted a distant cousin, the Batswana greeted me with open arms as a sister because that is the Botswana way. I will be forever grateful to my new friends in Botswana for overcoming my unwittingly narrow expectations by welcoming me as the brothers and the sisters that we are because without which, my experience would not have been nearly as rewarding and amazing as it was.
Janie Urbanowicz aka Mpho Kagiso
For me (and most likely for others too) Botswana has been an experience and a half. Being here and seeing places I never thought I would has made me realize that the world is my oyster. All the places we've been and all the people we've met here have really widened my horizons. Everyone always has a positive outlook on life - that has encouraged me to try and lead the most fulfilling life I can.
It was especially good to spend time with the Americans and get to know them; they are totally awesome. I can't wait to see you all again!
Although our time here in Botswana has come to an end, I believe that it is really just the beginning of a lifetime full of new and challenging experiences.
Thank you to everyone who made this possible.
Sally Hewett
I am currently on the flight home from Africa. On this trip I've had the opportunity to meet a young lady around my age who made a missions trip to South Africa. We talked about our various experiences and impressions of Africa as well as our beliefs and faith. This turned out to be a very thought-provoking conversation for only the first hour of our ghastly seventeen-hour flight. The young lady explained how her group stayed in South Africa for about three weeks in a modest hut without showers and "survived" off of peanut butter and jelly sandwiches. Yet she enthusiastically described memories of caring for the orphans and visiting hospitals. When it was my turn to share my experiences I was honestly embarrassed- I had just spent the past week at my host family's comfortable home, swimming pool and all. Did I ever really take part in the "true Africa experience"?
Yet as I began sharing memories like bonding with my host sister at the movies and family dinners, playing a game of pick-up soccer with some women of Botswana, and receiving an old, well-loved t-shirt from a new, well-loved best friend- I became reassured. I was returning to North Carolina with so many beautiful memories and new friendships, whereas the young lady described each new face as though they were a project instead of a new friend. Here marked the difference between ministry and mission.
As Bishop Trevor of Botswana explained in his speech at the HIV/AIDS Conference, the companion link between the dioceses of North Carolina, Newcastle, and Botswana is one that encourages us to "walk together in Christian Discipleship." Instead of assuming the responsibility of the people of Botswana and caring for them as a parent cares for a child, we must recognize them as fellow pilgrims and brothers and sisters of faith. Bishop Trevor continued his speech by inviting the youth from the three dioceses to "support and challenge each other." A vital part of the invitation being the phrase, "each other." Instead of allowing ourselves to take full responsibility of supporting everyone we must share the duty among us. The act of trusting God and others to support and challenge us can often find us out of our comfort zone as we have to learn to give up control. Giving up control and allowing cultures to envelop us proved to be just a few of the many encounters that led us outside of our comfort zone. Yet an open mind and a willingness to walk beside each other, instead of in front or behind, has allowed me to learn more than I can ever hope to share. I've learned that God can be celebrated through both silent prayer and joyous dancing. I've learned that youth have the ability to create opportunities and serve as role models for future generations. I've learned that the power of love and friendship know no borders.
And so I return to North Carolina with priceless knowledge and timeless friendships. I respectfully acknowledge the young lady's passion for mission and smile knowingly as she struggles with the phrase "cultural exchange". And as I depart her I will have the knowledge to understand that my place is not in front or behind, but beside the people of Botswana. My faith is somewhere in Gaborone around the dinner table where cooked carrots and conversation are shared with my host brother and sister. I am currently on a flight to North Carolina leaving both my family and my home.
Blythe Riggan
Tumelo (Faith)
Thinking back on my two weeks that I have spent in Botswana and South Africa, I have learned a great deal about myself than I could have imagined possible in the same time span. Personally, I feel as though it was a trip that has contributed quite a bit to my ever growing maturity. I feel myself growing from a child, inside my own little world, unconscious of both the joys and pitfalls that are experienced by people all across the world. I've learned that as a single person, I can change many parts of the world, as long as I have the support of my family, friends, and God behind me. Through them, I'm capable of spreading any word, funding any worthy cause, or supporting any group of my choosing.
Being stretched beyond ones comfort zone is always profitable, for the person and surrounding people alike. It allows one experience something that they never have, and this in itself is a learning experience in it's own right. As said by many, experience is life's greatest teacher. It teaches you about one's self, how one would act in these situations, and how they can adjust if necessary. These last two weeks have given me learning experiences that would have in no way been possible without the wonderful bond that the Diocese of North Carolina and Diocese of Botswana have, and I pray that it is one that remains strong for decades to come.
At the moment, I'm positive that this adventure has changed me. I has made me wiser in ways I did not believe it could, more knowledgeable in aspects that I would have never thought of, and genuinely grateful for the opportunity for the amazing privileges that I have in the United States. That is how it has changed my service to the world. Before this trip, my goals in live were, in a way, completely selfish. I wanted to go to a good college and do the things Ive said I would because I wanted to make a successful living. Now, however, that's not the only thing. Now, I want it to mean something. I want to change something in the world. I want to change something, and improve it, so it can benefit any and everyone.
Cameron Marshall
Modise (Shepard)
Going into this trip I was hoping to become an expert on Botswana since I will hopefully be returning for an extended amount of time. I am probably more lost now than I was but in an overwhelmingly happy way. The culture of Botswana is so simple and so complicated all at the same time. It seems as though they live very similar to our lives and yet have African culture dribbled in. This trip has intrigued me even more to get to know the language and culture of Botswana and other countries. Traveling away from home not only allows you to learn about other cultures and people but it allows you to grow and appreciate yourself and your own culture. I don't think I ever wanted to have a chickfela sandwich more in my entire life! I absolutely loved getting to know youth in my diocese, youth from new castle and youth from Botswana. We focused on finding out our differences but it was clear we all had a lot in common.
Ke o rata (I love you)
Anna
Tsala,(friend)
Before we left on the trip I had no idea what to expect. Up until the last night I thought we would be doing service and volunteer work. I quickly learned that this was not a mission trip and after two weeks I still have no idea what to call this trip. What I do know is that it has been an amazing experience. Over the two weeks I learned a lot about how people worship differently and it was refreshing to see the passion that the people have when it comes to their faith. All of us were stretched in some sort of way and it was important because it allowed us to be immersed in a different culture. This trip didn't necessarily change me but I had some great experiences that I will never forget. I am so appreciative that I got to meet all of the great people that went on the trip and they all have a special place in my heart.
Mary Peyton
Before we left on the trip I had no idea what to expect. Up until the last night I thought we would be doing service and volunteer work. I quickly learned that this was not a mission trip and after two weeks I still have no idea what to call this trip. What I do know is that it has been an amazing experience. Over the two weeks I learned a lot about how people worship differently and it was refreshing to see the passion that the people have when it comes to their faith. All of us were stretched in some sort of way and it was important because it allowed us to be immersed in a different culture. This trip didn't necessarily change me but I had some great experiences that I will never forget. I am so appreciative that I got to meet all of the great people that went on the trip and they all have a special place in my heart.
Mary Peyton
Two weeks ago, the whole of my world consisted of what I knew in my small town. However, Botswana drastically changed that during the past two weeks. I think the greatest thing I came to understand was that all cultures are different and when you learn to embrace the diversity, you have the opportunity to create truly special friendships. It was through these bonds I made with the youth of Botswana and New Castle that my faith grew as well. Suddenly, Christianity wasn't just what I saw at church every Sunday. Instead, it was passion in the voices of the congregation as they broke out in sporadic song. It was tradition mixed with joyful spirits and a love of Christ. Christianity existed beyond the walls of America, and that simple fact has allowed me to love being a Christian that much more. During my stay in Africa, I let go of my comfort zone and met some spectacular people. In doing so, I came to understand that I have friends all over the world now. So when I get home, my world will no longer be confined to the narrow dimensions I knew a little over two weeks ago. This new world of mine exists everywhere, from the United States all the way to England and Africa.
- Hayley Fowler
This trip has expanded my faith because this was the first time I had seen a congregation fully celebrate their Christian faith during a worship service. They thanked God for everything they had, even if it wasn't that much. I began to wonder why we, as Americans, don't praise God for what we have, even if we have so much to be thankful for. When you are stretched beyond your comfort zone, you grow as a person. You became more comfortable in strange situations, and therefore, you become a more versatile person, ready to adapt to any new situation. This trip has pushed everyone to their limits, in a good way, and has made us more balanced and versatile people. Finally, this trip has made me see my home in relation to the rest of the world. I now see how problems like AIDS and hunger affect other human beings. I can now truly see the devastation these problems gave created, and this increases my motivation to help solve these problems. I can now more easily see that North Carolina isn't the center of the world, and problems that don't affect North Carolina still affect the world around us. Finally, Tim and I finished Breaking Bad. *DISCLAIMER* I had two hours of sleep last night and am running on empty, so these answers might not make the most sense.
~Conor Jones
I have connected with various people that seem very different but actually we are all similar. Also I have found that there are many ways to practice my faith. Some of them work better than what I was doing but other ways dont work as well. Also, this trip has given me a chance to crawl out of the shell I am usually in, and I am glad that I did because I had a great time. This trip pushed us all out of our comfort zones. I tried foods that I have never heard of before. This gives us experience so we know what we like and dont and what we want to do later in life. The experiences that we have had this trip will stay with us forever. I will alway have friends from now on in Newcastle and Botswana. These are friendships that would have never had the chance to make otherwise. This has given me a liking of traveling and meeting people and doing projects with them, whether it is planning or something more physical. If I had the chance to do it agian, i would say yes without any hesitation. No matter where, I would go, because you never know when you will be able to go there agian. Wherever I am needed, I will go. I would love to work this the people from this trip agian if i could. I will do whatever service was needed wherever. This trip and the people I traveled it with have been truly inspirational.
Paul Hughes
Kabo (Gift)
Over the past 2 weeks, I’ve learned that I can be stronger than I thought I could, and grew in courage as well as faith. Having not been brought up as a Christian, and finding God within my youth group, I’ve always been more reserved with sharing faith and showing my true self. With the support of those around me, I took my first ever communion whilst on this trip. That for me was a big thing, I’d always been nervous, but realized I had nothing to fear. I made friends with strangers, and closer friends to those I already knew.
As I mentioned I’ve always been a reserved person, and being in such close proximity with a lot of people was difficult at first, but everyone was welcoming, from all 3 diocese, and I feel like I’ve come out of this trip more at peace with myself and others. My faith has taken a huge step on this trip, yes with my first communion, but also with how God works within our hearts.
In a new place with new people its easy to feel lost, but our brothers and sisters in North Carolina, and Botswana have shown that we truly are one heart, one mind, one body in Christ.
Africa felt like coming home, the bishop of Botswana reminded us of this often, but I never truly understood this till I was leaving and felt the ache of goodbyes, though they will never be a full goodbye, as I aim to return one day.
The SOS village, how they run it to give every child a family life, a stable up bringing and a chance at independent living once adults, has made me see why we should serve the Lord, people need support and we should give that wherever and whenever we can, because someone somewhere will always have our backs. I can do everything through him who gives me strength, Phil. 4:13.
My experience has changed me, fact. I've become a brighter and happier spirited person, thanks to the things we've done and the people I’ve met. I have a better understanding of faith is different for everyone, how it changes people, and how I can live now knowing I have a global family, that will always support me, no matter what.
Nna le Tumelo (keep faith)
Jo Taylor
Biotumelo (happiness)
I have learnt that I love travelling and learning new cultures and languages. Before I thought it was just because of being brought up in France but this trip has really developed my love of anything foreign and I can’t wait to go travelling again! I think I’ve become more independent and confident in myself which has really prepared me for next year when I move to university (college) and have to do everything myself. I’ve also learnt that my faith is nothing compared to the people in Botswana but has become stronger through it… Much worse things have happened to a lot of them than to me yet they still believe so strongly and are such devoted Christians that it’s embarrassing that for me it’s kind of just something I do because my parents tell me to.
Being stretched for me is important because it makes life so much more worthwhile and gives you a sense of fulfilment which you can’t achieve if you don’t push yourself that bit further. It also makes you appreciate other people’s struggles and understand different situations/cultures better as to put yourself in different shoes.
I think this experience has changed me as I’ve caught the travelling bug and in particular travelling to Africa so when I’m older hopefully I’ll carry on visiting/living in different countries. The AIDS workshop really inspired me to do something about it and I hope that over the next few years I can really make a change to the current situation. The last activity with Tim and Beth and in particular the question about whether you knew someone personally who had been infected with AIDS really stood out and made me determined to try and change people’s reply to it. The visit to the SOS village really made me want to help young orphans like Angela as she is such a lovely little girl but she wouldn’t have anything were it not for the village and I doubt that other countries have such good care facilities as in Botswana.
Lydia aka Malebogo (Thanksgiving)
I think over these last two weeks I have learned how strong I can be within myself and even though I haven't believed it in the past I do have certain gifts, like I have been told I have a good singing voice, hmmm. I have also thought my faith has become stronger through seeing the passion within the souls of the Batswana people. I have learnt that people can be drawn together in so many ways which is beautiful.
To stretch ourselves is important as we learn more about ourselves, other people and rich new heights of knowledge which can be truly inspiring.
I think I have gained self belief in my own gifts but also seen the bonding of complete strangers in such a short period of time, which is wonderful. I find the second part of the third question hard to answer as I'm not sure!
Georgi
______________________________
I think to stretch out of your comfort zone is the only way you can grow and develop as a person, when we are doing something which we wouldn't usually do we build support networks and we rely on God more readily to help lead us in the challenges.
This experience has completely changed me, my heart will always be in Botswana and with the people who shared in my experiences here. The support and welcoming has been inspirational and I hope to take home a readiness to learn, listen and help wherever possible.
- Emily
______________________________
Botswana has been an inspiring journey in which I, personally, discovered how lucky we are in other countries around the globe. A few weeks before I came I began having doubts about coming because of personal experiences but as I prayed for guidance on what to do the excitement of coming got stronger and stronger.
I think in the context of comfort zones, I haven't been stretched in the relation to food or accommodation as I had an experience last year in the villages in Tanzania. The reasons I was stretched, was mainly trying to grasp the concept of people's ignorance of how they expected Africa to be and when they didn't get that, they weren't happy but as time went by, I decided each person has their own way of coping with particular things.
Botswana has been a contrast to what I experienced last year as there were cars, comfortable beds and food at the click of our fingers. I feel privileged to have been on the trip as it has allowed me to see both cultures of Africa.
Shaun O'Brien
______________________________
Over the past two weeks I have had the most amazing experience of my life. In all honesty i think at i have learned to completely love Africa, the different culture and customs, it has all Been amazing, the way worship is over here has also made me realise that no matter how different we are in every aspect of our life, we all have one common belief and that is constantly growing stronger.
It is essential to stretch ourselves beyond our limit as it helps us to grow as people. I know that I have grew an unbelievable amount on this trip, a lot more than I expected. In addition I feel I am a much better person for it.
For starters I know now that I would love to come back to Africa once more and help in any way I can. I didn't know how much this place meant to me until I came. As the bishop said, it felt like I was coming home, and I would certainly offer my service to "come home" again!!
Matthew Dove
______________________________
Over the past two weeks I have learned so many things about myself that I never knew before. For starters, I learned that in addition to the name my parents gave me, I also have a Setswana name, Mpho Kagiso which was given to me by two youth from Botswana, Patience and Owen. Mpho means gift and Kagiso means peace, a name that I will strive to live up to it. I also discovered that I have a second family half way around the world from my first. My host family went beyond the duties as a host and truly tried to make me feel as welcome as possible and by the third day my host mom introduced me as her second daughter. Her daughter, Tshephi and I decided that as neither of us had a sister, that we would become sisters. They took me on a tour of Gabs and made sure that I knew where the airport was, their reasoning of course was so that when I returned to visit I would be prepared. All in all, this trip has enabled me to find pieces of myself, my family, and friends that I had not yet known.
Prior to this trip, i fancied the Episcopal Church of North Carolina as distant cousins to the Anglican Church of Botswana. As such I expected to be greeted by our counterparts in Botswana as one might greet a distant cousin, friendly but a bit reserved and hesitant because we had never met before. I could not have been more mistaken in this assumption. Throughout nearly all of my experiences on this trip with the Batswana, there was this overwhelming hospitality, genuine interest, and sense of community. This was a welcome, if puzzling, development and my trip was made all the better for it. About half way through our trip, we were invited to dinner at the British High Commissioner's home and through a discussion with Bishop Trevor of Botswana, I began to understand a little more. The Bishop mentioned that there traditionally is not a Setswana word for cousin because they are not differentiated from ones siblings and are thus referred to as brother or sister, as they are part of the immediate family. Armed with this new insight, I was able to unlock the splendid mystery of the welcome that I had received throughout my time in Botswana. I realized that while I had naively assumed I would be greeted a distant cousin, the Batswana greeted me with open arms as a sister because that is the Botswana way. I will be forever grateful to my new friends in Botswana for overcoming my unwittingly narrow expectations by welcoming me as the brothers and the sisters that we are because without which, my experience would not have been nearly as rewarding and amazing as it was.
Janie Urbanowicz aka Mpho Kagiso
______________________________
For me (and most likely for others too) Botswana has been an experience and a half. Being here and seeing places I never thought I would has made me realize that the world is my oyster. All the places we've been and all the people we've met here have really widened my horizons. Everyone always has a positive outlook on life - that has encouraged me to try and lead the most fulfilling life I can.
It was especially good to spend time with the Americans and get to know them; they are totally awesome. I can't wait to see you all again!
Although our time here in Botswana has come to an end, I believe that it is really just the beginning of a lifetime full of new and challenging experiences.
Thank you to everyone who made this possible.
Sally Hewett
______________________________
I am currently on the flight home from Africa. On this trip I've had the opportunity to meet a young lady around my age who made a missions trip to South Africa. We talked about our various experiences and impressions of Africa as well as our beliefs and faith. This turned out to be a very thought-provoking conversation for only the first hour of our ghastly seventeen-hour flight. The young lady explained how her group stayed in South Africa for about three weeks in a modest hut without showers and "survived" off of peanut butter and jelly sandwiches. Yet she enthusiastically described memories of caring for the orphans and visiting hospitals. When it was my turn to share my experiences I was honestly embarrassed- I had just spent the past week at my host family's comfortable home, swimming pool and all. Did I ever really take part in the "true Africa experience"?
Yet as I began sharing memories like bonding with my host sister at the movies and family dinners, playing a game of pick-up soccer with some women of Botswana, and receiving an old, well-loved t-shirt from a new, well-loved best friend- I became reassured. I was returning to North Carolina with so many beautiful memories and new friendships, whereas the young lady described each new face as though they were a project instead of a new friend. Here marked the difference between ministry and mission.
As Bishop Trevor of Botswana explained in his speech at the HIV/AIDS Conference, the companion link between the dioceses of North Carolina, Newcastle, and Botswana is one that encourages us to "walk together in Christian Discipleship." Instead of assuming the responsibility of the people of Botswana and caring for them as a parent cares for a child, we must recognize them as fellow pilgrims and brothers and sisters of faith. Bishop Trevor continued his speech by inviting the youth from the three dioceses to "support and challenge each other." A vital part of the invitation being the phrase, "each other." Instead of allowing ourselves to take full responsibility of supporting everyone we must share the duty among us. The act of trusting God and others to support and challenge us can often find us out of our comfort zone as we have to learn to give up control. Giving up control and allowing cultures to envelop us proved to be just a few of the many encounters that led us outside of our comfort zone. Yet an open mind and a willingness to walk beside each other, instead of in front or behind, has allowed me to learn more than I can ever hope to share. I've learned that God can be celebrated through both silent prayer and joyous dancing. I've learned that youth have the ability to create opportunities and serve as role models for future generations. I've learned that the power of love and friendship know no borders.
And so I return to North Carolina with priceless knowledge and timeless friendships. I respectfully acknowledge the young lady's passion for mission and smile knowingly as she struggles with the phrase "cultural exchange". And as I depart her I will have the knowledge to understand that my place is not in front or behind, but beside the people of Botswana. My faith is somewhere in Gaborone around the dinner table where cooked carrots and conversation are shared with my host brother and sister. I am currently on a flight to North Carolina leaving both my family and my home.
Blythe Riggan
Tumelo (Faith)
______________________________
Thinking back on my two weeks that I have spent in Botswana and South Africa, I have learned a great deal about myself than I could have imagined possible in the same time span. Personally, I feel as though it was a trip that has contributed quite a bit to my ever growing maturity. I feel myself growing from a child, inside my own little world, unconscious of both the joys and pitfalls that are experienced by people all across the world. I've learned that as a single person, I can change many parts of the world, as long as I have the support of my family, friends, and God behind me. Through them, I'm capable of spreading any word, funding any worthy cause, or supporting any group of my choosing.
Being stretched beyond ones comfort zone is always profitable, for the person and surrounding people alike. It allows one experience something that they never have, and this in itself is a learning experience in it's own right. As said by many, experience is life's greatest teacher. It teaches you about one's self, how one would act in these situations, and how they can adjust if necessary. These last two weeks have given me learning experiences that would have in no way been possible without the wonderful bond that the Diocese of North Carolina and Diocese of Botswana have, and I pray that it is one that remains strong for decades to come.
At the moment, I'm positive that this adventure has changed me. I has made me wiser in ways I did not believe it could, more knowledgeable in aspects that I would have never thought of, and genuinely grateful for the opportunity for the amazing privileges that I have in the United States. That is how it has changed my service to the world. Before this trip, my goals in live were, in a way, completely selfish. I wanted to go to a good college and do the things Ive said I would because I wanted to make a successful living. Now, however, that's not the only thing. Now, I want it to mean something. I want to change something in the world. I want to change something, and improve it, so it can benefit any and everyone.
Cameron Marshall
Modise (Shepard)
______________________________
Going into this trip I was hoping to become an expert on Botswana since I will hopefully be returning for an extended amount of time. I am probably more lost now than I was but in an overwhelmingly happy way. The culture of Botswana is so simple and so complicated all at the same time. It seems as though they live very similar to our lives and yet have African culture dribbled in. This trip has intrigued me even more to get to know the language and culture of Botswana and other countries. Traveling away from home not only allows you to learn about other cultures and people but it allows you to grow and appreciate yourself and your own culture. I don't think I ever wanted to have a chickfela sandwich more in my entire life! I absolutely loved getting to know youth in my diocese, youth from new castle and youth from Botswana. We focused on finding out our differences but it was clear we all had a lot in common.
Ke o rata (I love you)
Anna
Tsala,(friend)
______________________________
Before we left on the trip I had no idea what to expect. Up until the last night I thought we would be doing service and volunteer work. I quickly learned that this was not a mission trip and after two weeks I still have no idea what to call this trip. What I do know is that it has been an amazing experience. Over the two weeks I learned a lot about how people worship differently and it was refreshing to see the passion that the people have when it comes to their faith. All of us were stretched in some sort of way and it was important because it allowed us to be immersed in a different culture. This trip didn't necessarily change me but I had some great experiences that I will never forget. I am so appreciative that I got to meet all of the great people that went on the trip and they all have a special place in my heart.
Mary Peyton
______________________________
Before we left on the trip I had no idea what to expect. Up until the last night I thought we would be doing service and volunteer work. I quickly learned that this was not a mission trip and after two weeks I still have no idea what to call this trip. What I do know is that it has been an amazing experience. Over the two weeks I learned a lot about how people worship differently and it was refreshing to see the passion that the people have when it comes to their faith. All of us were stretched in some sort of way and it was important because it allowed us to be immersed in a different culture. This trip didn't necessarily change me but I had some great experiences that I will never forget. I am so appreciative that I got to meet all of the great people that went on the trip and they all have a special place in my heart.
Mary Peyton
______________________________
Two weeks ago, the whole of my world consisted of what I knew in my small town. However, Botswana drastically changed that during the past two weeks. I think the greatest thing I came to understand was that all cultures are different and when you learn to embrace the diversity, you have the opportunity to create truly special friendships. It was through these bonds I made with the youth of Botswana and New Castle that my faith grew as well. Suddenly, Christianity wasn't just what I saw at church every Sunday. Instead, it was passion in the voices of the congregation as they broke out in sporadic song. It was tradition mixed with joyful spirits and a love of Christ. Christianity existed beyond the walls of America, and that simple fact has allowed me to love being a Christian that much more. During my stay in Africa, I let go of my comfort zone and met some spectacular people. In doing so, I came to understand that I have friends all over the world now. So when I get home, my world will no longer be confined to the narrow dimensions I knew a little over two weeks ago. This new world of mine exists everywhere, from the United States all the way to England and Africa.
- Hayley Fowler
______________________________
This trip has expanded my faith because this was the first time I had seen a congregation fully celebrate their Christian faith during a worship service. They thanked God for everything they had, even if it wasn't that much. I began to wonder why we, as Americans, don't praise God for what we have, even if we have so much to be thankful for. When you are stretched beyond your comfort zone, you grow as a person. You became more comfortable in strange situations, and therefore, you become a more versatile person, ready to adapt to any new situation. This trip has pushed everyone to their limits, in a good way, and has made us more balanced and versatile people. Finally, this trip has made me see my home in relation to the rest of the world. I now see how problems like AIDS and hunger affect other human beings. I can now truly see the devastation these problems gave created, and this increases my motivation to help solve these problems. I can now more easily see that North Carolina isn't the center of the world, and problems that don't affect North Carolina still affect the world around us. Finally, Tim and I finished Breaking Bad. *DISCLAIMER* I had two hours of sleep last night and am running on empty, so these answers might not make the most sense.
~Conor Jones
______________________________
I have connected with various people that seem very different but actually we are all similar. Also I have found that there are many ways to practice my faith. Some of them work better than what I was doing but other ways dont work as well. Also, this trip has given me a chance to crawl out of the shell I am usually in, and I am glad that I did because I had a great time. This trip pushed us all out of our comfort zones. I tried foods that I have never heard of before. This gives us experience so we know what we like and dont and what we want to do later in life. The experiences that we have had this trip will stay with us forever. I will alway have friends from now on in Newcastle and Botswana. These are friendships that would have never had the chance to make otherwise. This has given me a liking of traveling and meeting people and doing projects with them, whether it is planning or something more physical. If I had the chance to do it agian, i would say yes without any hesitation. No matter where, I would go, because you never know when you will be able to go there agian. Wherever I am needed, I will go. I would love to work this the people from this trip agian if i could. I will do whatever service was needed wherever. This trip and the people I traveled it with have been truly inspirational.
Paul Hughes
Kabo (Gift)
______________________________
Over the past 2 weeks, I’ve learned that I can be stronger than I thought I could, and grew in courage as well as faith. Having not been brought up as a Christian, and finding God within my youth group, I’ve always been more reserved with sharing faith and showing my true self. With the support of those around me, I took my first ever communion whilst on this trip. That for me was a big thing, I’d always been nervous, but realized I had nothing to fear. I made friends with strangers, and closer friends to those I already knew.
As I mentioned I’ve always been a reserved person, and being in such close proximity with a lot of people was difficult at first, but everyone was welcoming, from all 3 diocese, and I feel like I’ve come out of this trip more at peace with myself and others. My faith has taken a huge step on this trip, yes with my first communion, but also with how God works within our hearts.
In a new place with new people its easy to feel lost, but our brothers and sisters in North Carolina, and Botswana have shown that we truly are one heart, one mind, one body in Christ.
Africa felt like coming home, the bishop of Botswana reminded us of this often, but I never truly understood this till I was leaving and felt the ache of goodbyes, though they will never be a full goodbye, as I aim to return one day.
The SOS village, how they run it to give every child a family life, a stable up bringing and a chance at independent living once adults, has made me see why we should serve the Lord, people need support and we should give that wherever and whenever we can, because someone somewhere will always have our backs. I can do everything through him who gives me strength, Phil. 4:13.
My experience has changed me, fact. I've become a brighter and happier spirited person, thanks to the things we've done and the people I’ve met. I have a better understanding of faith is different for everyone, how it changes people, and how I can live now knowing I have a global family, that will always support me, no matter what.
Nna le Tumelo (keep faith)
Jo Taylor
Biotumelo (happiness)
______________________________
I have learnt that I love travelling and learning new cultures and languages. Before I thought it was just because of being brought up in France but this trip has really developed my love of anything foreign and I can’t wait to go travelling again! I think I’ve become more independent and confident in myself which has really prepared me for next year when I move to university (college) and have to do everything myself. I’ve also learnt that my faith is nothing compared to the people in Botswana but has become stronger through it… Much worse things have happened to a lot of them than to me yet they still believe so strongly and are such devoted Christians that it’s embarrassing that for me it’s kind of just something I do because my parents tell me to.
Being stretched for me is important because it makes life so much more worthwhile and gives you a sense of fulfilment which you can’t achieve if you don’t push yourself that bit further. It also makes you appreciate other people’s struggles and understand different situations/cultures better as to put yourself in different shoes.
I think this experience has changed me as I’ve caught the travelling bug and in particular travelling to Africa so when I’m older hopefully I’ll carry on visiting/living in different countries. The AIDS workshop really inspired me to do something about it and I hope that over the next few years I can really make a change to the current situation. The last activity with Tim and Beth and in particular the question about whether you knew someone personally who had been infected with AIDS really stood out and made me determined to try and change people’s reply to it. The visit to the SOS village really made me want to help young orphans like Angela as she is such a lovely little girl but she wouldn’t have anything were it not for the village and I doubt that other countries have such good care facilities as in Botswana.
Lydia aka Malebogo (Thanksgiving)
Monday, August 1, 2011
Sunset in South Afrcia
I just discovered some photos I had taken on my iphone. We were all moved by one of the most beautiful sunsets we had ever since. Photos just don't give the full picture, but hope you will enjoy.
Saturday, July 30, 2011
Sermon preached by the Rt. Rev. Dr. Musonda T.S. Mwamba- Into Africa: We are all God’s Children
Into Africa: We are all God’s Children
Sermon preached by the Rt. Rev. Dr. Musonda T.S. Mwamba
Bishop of Botswana
At the Cathedral of the Holy Cross, Gaborone, Botswana
Sunday, 24th July, 2011
The collect for the 17th Sunday of the year: Lord of heaven and earth you sent your Holy Spirit to be the life and power of your Church: sow in our hearts the seeds of his grace that we may bring forth the fruit of the Spirit in love and joy and peace; through Jesus Christ our Lord.
“We know that all things work together for good for those who love God, who are called according to His purpose.”
Where ever I travel in the United States or the United Kingdom when people realize I am the Bishop of Botswana, the first question they ask is about Mma Ramotswe, the heroine of the bestselling series of books: The No.1 Ladies’ Detective Agency, by my friend Alexander McCall Smith. Mma Ramotswe has made Botswana famous in the world.
In the company of Anglicans or Episcopalians who ask me of Mma Ramotswe, I delightfully tell them that she is in fact an Anglican! I also tell them this incident in the book, In The Company of Cheerful Ladies, where she attends a service in this very Cathedral. As I am preaching, Mma Ramotswe is not concentrating on the sermon as her mind is wandering on how to solve a case involving a pumpkin. She stops herself and thinks, ‘This is not the way to listen to Trevor Mwamba’! I hope your minds this morning are clear of pumpkins.
On Friday I welcomed our young brothers and sisters from the Dioceses of Newcastle and North Carolina, by saying you are home, but I did not explain why I said that. Let me explain now.
Has it ever crossed your mind that we are all Africans? This is not a trick question! Fourteen years ago a Journal called Cell published results on DNA testing done on Neanderthal man in an attempt to prove that he was an evolutionary dead end. The tests showed a large difference between modern man and the Neanderthals.
The team leader, Dr Svante Paabo, of the University of Munich, said that modern man first appeared in Africa, migrating to Europe and displacing the Neanderthals. The bottom line Dr Paabo stated was that ‘We are all Africans’. This was a finding of major importance.
Two years ago at Heathrow Airport I picked up The Economist: Intelligent Life with the headline: We are all Africans Now. Every one of us has African ancestors it said.
Let me take you back to Mma Ramotswe, that wise woman of ‘traditional build’, in The No.1 Ladies’ Detective Agency, she thinks about humanity, “God put us on this earth. We were all Africans then, in the beginning, because man started in Kenya, as Dr Leakey and his Daddy have proved. So, if one thinks carefully about it, we are all brothers and sisters...”
So welcome home my fellow Africans from the Dioceses of Newcastle and North Carolina! This explains why I said to you welcome home, on Friday!
Being home you may have begun to discover something about yourselves. Indeed life as a journey is always about discovering ourselves. The great United Nations Secretary – General Dag Hammarskjold was once said, “The longest journey is the journey inwards.” The journey to discover ourselves in the places we go, in the books we read, in the music we listen to, in the people we meet, in all that we experience. We are always on a journey of discovery in life. And subtly we are always changing moment by moment in this journey.
We must journey in life because if we don’t then we remain stagnant. We remain stale. We do not expand in our inner lives and our outer lives. We cannot discover our potentials within us, and so lose what we could have become. In this awareness the journey of our lives is really about journeying towards God. It is a journey of Faith.
In the journey of Faith we discover a very important truth that we should never forget and it is what St. Paul points to in the second reading we heard from Romans 8:28. “We know that all things work together for good for those who love God, who are called according to His purpose.”
So God journeys with us, in fact God began our journey in life before we were born. It is because of this we have come together over this couple of days from different countries and cultures and experiences but all linked together by the love of God. That is the common denominator. We have come led by God in our journey of Faith. In this journey we can be assured that God is working His or Her magic for our common good.
God is always about opening our understanding of ourselves and the world around us.
Sometime ago I came across this true story by an American lady named Mary A. Fischer, entitled Change of Heart. Nineteen years ago, she watched TV news reports of an African- American Rodney King speaking to the press after four officers accused of beating him in 1991 were acquitted which led to riots in Los Angeles. As King spoke to reporters, he sadly asked, “Can we all get along?”
Mary A. Fischer thought then it was not possible to get along. She lived in a neighbourhood of Los Angeles called Highland Park, which was being transformed by waves of new immigrants from Mexico, El Salvador, the Philippines and Vietnam, and for the first time, she was in the minority and was convinced racial harmony was impossible. She was convinced she had nothing in common with her neighbours and fortressed herself in her lovely pink Spanish house on the hill. Any attempts at interacting with her neighbours were on the basis of trying to bring them into compliance with her values.
Then something happened that changed her and how she lived in the neighbourhood. In a matter of two days, she lost the things that mattered most to her. Her well paying job came to an end and her relationship with a man she loved ended badly. Suddenly, all her anchors were gone and she sunk deep in grief.
The losses she experienced humbled her and made her vulnerable, but as a consequence she began to connect more fully with her neighbours and the world around her. She discovered how extraordinary they were. They were nothing like the biases she had made them out to be. They were hard working, honourable people, who like her, were just looking to live well and experience some measure of happiness.
Today, she would answer Rodney King’s question differently. She would say that it is possible for us to get along if people from different cultures don’t make the mistake she did. When she moved to her neighbourhood she neglected to view her neighbours as individuals and saw them as different and apart from herself. She now sees how their lives and hers include experiences universal to us all: loss, disappointment, hope, and love. She sees a oneness with others.
Mary’s life opened to an understanding of herself and the world around her. We can perhaps see also at work what St. Paul points to in Romans, “We know that all things work together for good for those who love God, who are called according to His purpose” in what she experienced.
We can perhaps see that she discovered that we are all children of God.
In this discovery we can get along in this life which is a gift from God. In this life the borders within us, our parish, our diocese, our province, and our Communion can be dissolved. We can also celebrate in this life the spirit of oneness, of love, of friendship, of uniqueness, of diversity, of what we share in common, to enrich each other.
In the discovery that we are all God’s children we journey into the experience of today’s prayer that the God of heaven and earth, the Great I AM, has sent His Holy Spirit to be the life and power of His Church. Let us pause for a moment: in other words God has sent His Holy Spirit to be the life and power in our lives. This is what St. Paul meant in Galatians, “I have been crucified with Christ; and it is no longer I who live, but it is Christ who lives in me.”
How deeply profound this is. So our earnest prayer is to allow the Holy Spirit to sow in our hearts the seeds of His grace that we may bring forth the fruit of the Spirit in love and joy and peace; through Jesus Christ our Lord.
I see this prayer in the words of Megan a gifted poet from the Diocese of Newcastle:
So much suffering in the world.
So much hate.
A shocking rise in death rates.
What is earth?
Is it Heaven or Hell?
So many beautiful things,
like the ringing of the church bells.
But so many ugly things,
Which threaten the world.
Sick torturing things that make my stomach curl.
If people just cared that little bit more,
Maybe we wouldn’t have to, if we just opened God’s door.
God’s door has been opened, your time here from your adventurous drive from Johannesburg and getting lost on the way; to the International Conference of Young Anglicans in Serowe; to the exciting safari in the Tuli block; your visit to American Embassy and Dinner with the British High Commissioner, to the Workshop on HIV and AIDS, to this worship now, it all a opening of God’s door; so all of us, God children in our dioceses and together as companion diocese can step into His world and make it a better place for all.
I know we can because God’s door opens out to where all things work together for good for those who love God, who are called according to His purpose.”
Friday, July 29, 2011
Videos from Botswana Youth Exchange, July 13-27
- HIV/AIDS Conference in Botswana Part I
- HIV/AIDS Conference in Botswana Part II
- HIV/AIDS Conference in Botswana Part III
- Youth Interview During HIV/AIDS Conference I
- Youth Interview During HIV/AIDS Conference II
- Youth Interview During HIV/AIDS Conference III
- Youth Product to Help End HIV/AIDS
- Botswana International Youth Conference, singing and dancing
- Botswana International Youth Conference
- Bahurutshe Cultural Village
- Bahurutshe Cultural Village 1
- Eucharist at Guild Conference
- Eucharist at Holy Cross Cathedral
- Music from AIDS/HIV Conference
- Music Performance During Guild Conference
- North Carolina and Newcastle Sing at Conference
- Serowe Hospital Visit During Guild Conference
Adventure Story After Time at Tuli Block
Here's a little screenplay we wrote. We're still shopping it around Hollywood:
(ALL CHARACTERS AND SEQUENCES ARE PURELY FICTIONAL. ANY RELATION TO ANY ACTUAL PERSONS OR EVENTS ARE STRICTLY COINCIDENTAL.)
A group of 17 young adults take a senior spring break voyage to Botswana and participate in a safari. This is their story.
During the first night in Botswana, four young men are sharing a cabin. They've managed to stash some Wonka Bars in their suitcases, despite the warnings from the locals about animals stealing food. Lee, one of these four men, arises out of his slumber late at night in order to relieve himself. On his way back to his bed, he glances up at the rafters. To his surprise, there are several baboons hiding up there, clearly attracted by the smell of the Wonka Bars. A stand ensues, and their eyes meet. Lee panics and breaks for the door, screaming at the top of his lungs. His roommates awake with a start in time to see several of the baboons descend upon them. In the confusion, only one escapes with his life. Lee and Chris, another of the men, are found dead, and Pedro is missing, presumed dead. Craig narrowly escapes by hiding in his suitcase, spraying deodorant to mask his scent from the baboons. He falls asleep inside the suitcase, and doesn't awake until late the next day.
Early the next morning, while Craig is still asleep, a brother and sister from the group go down to a nearby river to wash their clothes. Unaware of the danger lurking just beneath the surface, they proceed to wash their clothes in the river. Suddenly, a crocodile snaps at the boy's arm, severing it. The blood falls into the water and sends nearby piranhas into a blood frenzy. They attack the nearest human source of meat, and begin to feast on the the two siblings. Jack and Jill, the siblings, stand no chance against the piranha attack and become a nice early morning snack for nature's fiercest fish.
Unaware of the untimely deaths of several of their comrades, nine of the remaining twelve go on an safari ride. The ride was doomed from the start.
Lindsay, unaware of the lions and other fierce predators, takes some leftover steak from the previous night on the safari. Almost instantly, their ride was ravaged by lions, hyenas, and leopards. The tires on their jeep were destroyed, leaving them stranded and surrounded by crazed predators. Robert, quickly thinking in his feet, plays dead while the others attempt to fight the animals. The predators ignore Robert, believing him to be diseased, due to his sudden death and his smell of Axe Body Spray. While the lions devour the others, Robert escapes and goes back to camp to warn the others and alert the authorities.
Robert returns to the campsite as Craig is waking up, still sealed inside his suitcase. Craig frees himself and goes outside, confused as to the whereabouts of the others. Robert calls a group meeting and the remaining four survivors gather around the campsite. After some discussion, they discover that all the others are either dead or missing, and they decide to go to nearby Gaborone in order to get help and leave the country.
Unfortunately, their car didn't have a GPS, and soon they were completely lost. Their map was of no help, and they resorted to asking for directions. They came across an old man, who appeared to know his way around Botswana. He directed them to take the next left, and continue straight until they hit Gaborone. After following his directions, they continued down a dirt road, hoping to get to Gaborone. As night descended, they began to panic, and searched for a place to get a burger and a place a to sleep. While searching, they stumbled upon a local tribe, who seemed hospitable enough. The tribe showed no surprise when their car pulled up, almost as if they were expecting them. The old man who had given them directions was there, and he waved them over to the largest tent.
The four survivors wandered over to the tent, confused as to why the old man was there. Inside the tent, sat the chief of the tribe, and beside him, lay Pedro, chained to a pole. The chief explained that, during the baboon attack, his men had kidnapped Pedro in order to draw the group to his tribe. He held Pedro hostage threatened to end his life if they didn't listen to his demands.
The chief's son was very sick and needed the healing powers of the Wakikicaca leaf. However, only foreigners could reach the leaf because mysterious powers prevented locals from reaching the leaf. Craig, speaking for the group, agreed to the chief's demands and asked where one could find the leaf. The chief gave them directions, and the group left immediately.
The leaf was located on top of Modise Mountain across the Thapelo Desert. So Craig, Robert, Sally, and Emma set out on their dangerous journey. They begin by traversing the Thapelo desert, and three quarters of the way through, the car runs out of petrol, and they are forced to cross the remainder of the desert on foot. To the horror of the group, however, Emma collapses from heatstroke and can't continue. The three survivors make it to Modise Mountain and begin the strenuous climb.
As the perilous climb grows tougher, Sally becomes tired and looses her footing, gingerly falling down a cliff to her doom. Robert and Craig continue their journey and make it to the top of the mountain unscathed. They retrieve the Wakikicaca Leaf and journey back to the tribe.
Upon their return, Robert and Craig hand the leaf to the chief, asking for Pedro in return. The chief smiles maliciously and tells them that the Wakikicaca leaf is deadly poisonous to foreigners, and the only antidote is the Quindisi leaf, which is located in the most dangerous realm of the Democratic Republic of Congo. This leaf will also cure the chief's son once he creates the antidote from the extract of the Quindisi leaf. He made them get the Wakikicaca leaf in order to ensure their cooperation. Now that their lives are on the line, they are forced to partake in this adventure. Pedro's life wasn't enough motivation. Now all of their lives are on the line, and they must save the chief's son if any of them are going to leave Botswana alive!
(Thus begins the sequel)
FIN
Written by Conor and Cameron
(ALL CHARACTERS AND SEQUENCES ARE PURELY FICTIONAL. ANY RELATION TO ANY ACTUAL PERSONS OR EVENTS ARE STRICTLY COINCIDENTAL.)
A group of 17 young adults take a senior spring break voyage to Botswana and participate in a safari. This is their story.
During the first night in Botswana, four young men are sharing a cabin. They've managed to stash some Wonka Bars in their suitcases, despite the warnings from the locals about animals stealing food. Lee, one of these four men, arises out of his slumber late at night in order to relieve himself. On his way back to his bed, he glances up at the rafters. To his surprise, there are several baboons hiding up there, clearly attracted by the smell of the Wonka Bars. A stand ensues, and their eyes meet. Lee panics and breaks for the door, screaming at the top of his lungs. His roommates awake with a start in time to see several of the baboons descend upon them. In the confusion, only one escapes with his life. Lee and Chris, another of the men, are found dead, and Pedro is missing, presumed dead. Craig narrowly escapes by hiding in his suitcase, spraying deodorant to mask his scent from the baboons. He falls asleep inside the suitcase, and doesn't awake until late the next day.
Early the next morning, while Craig is still asleep, a brother and sister from the group go down to a nearby river to wash their clothes. Unaware of the danger lurking just beneath the surface, they proceed to wash their clothes in the river. Suddenly, a crocodile snaps at the boy's arm, severing it. The blood falls into the water and sends nearby piranhas into a blood frenzy. They attack the nearest human source of meat, and begin to feast on the the two siblings. Jack and Jill, the siblings, stand no chance against the piranha attack and become a nice early morning snack for nature's fiercest fish.
Unaware of the untimely deaths of several of their comrades, nine of the remaining twelve go on an safari ride. The ride was doomed from the start.
Lindsay, unaware of the lions and other fierce predators, takes some leftover steak from the previous night on the safari. Almost instantly, their ride was ravaged by lions, hyenas, and leopards. The tires on their jeep were destroyed, leaving them stranded and surrounded by crazed predators. Robert, quickly thinking in his feet, plays dead while the others attempt to fight the animals. The predators ignore Robert, believing him to be diseased, due to his sudden death and his smell of Axe Body Spray. While the lions devour the others, Robert escapes and goes back to camp to warn the others and alert the authorities.
Robert returns to the campsite as Craig is waking up, still sealed inside his suitcase. Craig frees himself and goes outside, confused as to the whereabouts of the others. Robert calls a group meeting and the remaining four survivors gather around the campsite. After some discussion, they discover that all the others are either dead or missing, and they decide to go to nearby Gaborone in order to get help and leave the country.
Unfortunately, their car didn't have a GPS, and soon they were completely lost. Their map was of no help, and they resorted to asking for directions. They came across an old man, who appeared to know his way around Botswana. He directed them to take the next left, and continue straight until they hit Gaborone. After following his directions, they continued down a dirt road, hoping to get to Gaborone. As night descended, they began to panic, and searched for a place to get a burger and a place a to sleep. While searching, they stumbled upon a local tribe, who seemed hospitable enough. The tribe showed no surprise when their car pulled up, almost as if they were expecting them. The old man who had given them directions was there, and he waved them over to the largest tent.
The four survivors wandered over to the tent, confused as to why the old man was there. Inside the tent, sat the chief of the tribe, and beside him, lay Pedro, chained to a pole. The chief explained that, during the baboon attack, his men had kidnapped Pedro in order to draw the group to his tribe. He held Pedro hostage threatened to end his life if they didn't listen to his demands.
The chief's son was very sick and needed the healing powers of the Wakikicaca leaf. However, only foreigners could reach the leaf because mysterious powers prevented locals from reaching the leaf. Craig, speaking for the group, agreed to the chief's demands and asked where one could find the leaf. The chief gave them directions, and the group left immediately.
The leaf was located on top of Modise Mountain across the Thapelo Desert. So Craig, Robert, Sally, and Emma set out on their dangerous journey. They begin by traversing the Thapelo desert, and three quarters of the way through, the car runs out of petrol, and they are forced to cross the remainder of the desert on foot. To the horror of the group, however, Emma collapses from heatstroke and can't continue. The three survivors make it to Modise Mountain and begin the strenuous climb.
As the perilous climb grows tougher, Sally becomes tired and looses her footing, gingerly falling down a cliff to her doom. Robert and Craig continue their journey and make it to the top of the mountain unscathed. They retrieve the Wakikicaca Leaf and journey back to the tribe.
Upon their return, Robert and Craig hand the leaf to the chief, asking for Pedro in return. The chief smiles maliciously and tells them that the Wakikicaca leaf is deadly poisonous to foreigners, and the only antidote is the Quindisi leaf, which is located in the most dangerous realm of the Democratic Republic of Congo. This leaf will also cure the chief's son once he creates the antidote from the extract of the Quindisi leaf. He made them get the Wakikicaca leaf in order to ensure their cooperation. Now that their lives are on the line, they are forced to partake in this adventure. Pedro's life wasn't enough motivation. Now all of their lives are on the line, and they must save the chief's son if any of them are going to leave Botswana alive!
(Thus begins the sequel)
FIN
Written by Conor and Cameron
Thursday, July 28, 2011
July 28: Home at Last
It is July 28th and both the Dioceses of Newcastle and North Carolina are back home. What an incredible experience the last two weeks have been. We will be posting more video, photos and text over the next few days. We are all very grateful to all who have made this once in a life time experience possible, especially to the people of the Diocese of Botswana.
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