Monday, March 23, 2009
Saturday, March 21, 2009
My Friend Patrick
What a great experience that was totally random. Friday morning Mike and I woke up, as we were staying in Choma, and decided to go with Dan and Austin Gutwein out to some huts about 2km down out of town. They needed to do some video shoots for Hoops of Hope. While
they were shooting, Mike and I decided to walk down the dirt road to see what we could “experience”. About one mile down this road, we came across 2 buildings that turned out to be different churchs… one that meets on Saturday and the other Sunday. While walking back from this we were being followed by a young man that was walking, and he was catching up to us quickly. When he came up to join us, we introduced ourselves and his name was Patrick. I asked him how many times he sees 2 white guys walking down the dirt road and he said, “Never”. What an appointment from God. Patrick is 22 years old and lives just over the train tracks from the churches. His father is a soldier in the Zambian army. He does not want to be a soldier, and would like to be an auto mechanic. Patrick has graduated high school and is waiting to get into school for mechanic this July. He does not have a wife or any children, but does have a girlfriend (one that he does not want to marry). I told him that was called a “kissing friend” in America. This he laughed at for some time. Patrick was walking into Choma (8km walk) to vis
it in ailing grandmother, and then see a couple of friends. He told us that he felt honored speaking with us and spending the time with us… awesome stuff!! It was at this time that I gave him my Diamondbacks hat, and told him that I was waiting for the right time to give it to a special person, and he was that person. We then took a picture, of which he wanted to wear my sunglasses during the photo. Great shot. One person I will not forget in the future. Honey – we will be finding Patrick on our return visit.
they were shooting, Mike and I decided to walk down the dirt road to see what we could “experience”. About one mile down this road, we came across 2 buildings that turned out to be different churchs… one that meets on Saturday and the other Sunday. While walking back from this we were being followed by a young man that was walking, and he was catching up to us quickly. When he came up to join us, we introduced ourselves and his name was Patrick. I asked him how many times he sees 2 white guys walking down the dirt road and he said, “Never”. What an appointment from God. Patrick is 22 years old and lives just over the train tracks from the churches. His father is a soldier in the Zambian army. He does not want to be a soldier, and would like to be an auto mechanic. Patrick has graduated high school and is waiting to get into school for mechanic this July. He does not have a wife or any children, but does have a girlfriend (one that he does not want to marry). I told him that was called a “kissing friend” in America. This he laughed at for some time. Patrick was walking into Choma (8km walk) to vis
it in ailing grandmother, and then see a couple of friends. He told us that he felt honored speaking with us and spending the time with us… awesome stuff!! It was at this time that I gave him my Diamondbacks hat, and told him that I was waiting for the right time to give it to a special person, and he was that person. We then took a picture, of which he wanted to wear my sunglasses during the photo. Great shot. One person I will not forget in the future. Honey – we will be finding Patrick on our return visit.Zambian Children (Respect)
One of the amazing things about Zambia throughout the villages is the true respect from the children. If you are speaking with a family, the children are beyond interested but they stay about 15 feet away out of respect. I asked one of the care givers about if they are shy, and she said, “well sort of, they would join their friend, but they stand off out of respect of the conversation being had”. Children that are being rais
ed mostly by single mother or no parents at all and there was a forum of respect that they carried with them. If you asked a group of kids to stand back from a picture or share one of the fruit snacks, they would listen right then and do what you said. I found this very interesting and quite pleasant about my experience there. Plus there are children everywhere!!! Over 50% of the population in Zambia is children and the average age is 38 yrs old.
ed mostly by single mother or no parents at all and there was a forum of respect that they carried with them. If you asked a group of kids to stand back from a picture or share one of the fruit snacks, they would listen right then and do what you said. I found this very interesting and quite pleasant about my experience there. Plus there are children everywhere!!! Over 50% of the population in Zambia is children and the average age is 38 yrs old.Juniour Chimba
We met Juniour on Wednesday, Mar 18th. We visited his home with the care giver named, Joyce. Juniour is 10 yrs old, but looks 6 yrs old because of illness and malnutrition which stunts his growth. Juniour is orphaned (both of his parents have died from AIDS, his dad a while back around birth and his mother died of AIDS in 2004), and lives with his mothers parents (grandparents). Juniour has full blown AIDS and gets sick often, so he is only in 2nd Grade. Let me remind you, 10
yrs old and in 2nd grade!! You do the math. He spent 2 yrs in and out of the hospital and not in school. Mike and I quickly became touched by Juniour as we sat around in a circle to discuss the situation. Now imagine a group of adults (8 total) and Juniour sitting in a circle discussing his situation: 10 yrs old, has AIDS, been very sick and in hospital, mother died in 2004 and dad before that, orphaned and living with grandparents. All of this was being said in English but then also in Tanga, of which Juniour perfectly understa
nds. I kept thinking to myself, what must this 10 yr old boy be thinking about this: who are these white guys, what do they want and why are we telling them my story… will they help me, will they take this disease away from me, will they “bless” my family, will they “take” something, what can I possibly give them, I miss my mother, do they have mothers and kids, what would it be like to have them as my dad. I could go on and 
on, and this I could not get out of my mind that night, as I woke up around 2:30am thinking about this day. Mike then got up after talking some time and told Juniour that we had a gift for him, going into his backpack and pulling out a soccer ball! I was looking at Juniour’s face when Mike did this and as soon as Juniour saw the ball, he smiled from ear to ear and yelled, “ball, ball!!” It was truly an amazing sight for a $6 soccer ball, one that I will not forget. All of Juniour’s friends (about 12 and growing by the minute) were standing 10 yards away taking everything in that was going on. Imagine the perception of AIDS now, Juniour is being visited by white people (mzungu = rich white people) and being presented gifts. AIDS does not look like it did 10 yrs ago now. After the soccer ball came handing out fruit snacks to all of the kids in the village area, they were very hesitant at first, but Mike and I would open a pack and eat them, so they then were very 
interested. This is also a precious sight to get on your knees and hand something of little value to us and light up their world. It is truly awe inspiring, and I would recommend this to anyone. We then went down and visited their garden, of which they have awesome gardens where they grow what they eat. So bad harvest, no food… can you even imagine that. NO WE CAN NOT. Needless to say that Juniour will be in Mike and my hearts for some time, and the Priest family also got to select Juniour as a sponsored child through World Vision right there on the spot. Cool stuff.
yrs old and in 2nd grade!! You do the math. He spent 2 yrs in and out of the hospital and not in school. Mike and I quickly became touched by Juniour as we sat around in a circle to discuss the situation. Now imagine a group of adults (8 total) and Juniour sitting in a circle discussing his situation: 10 yrs old, has AIDS, been very sick and in hospital, mother died in 2004 and dad before that, orphaned and living with grandparents. All of this was being said in English but then also in Tanga, of which Juniour perfectly understa
nds. I kept thinking to myself, what must this 10 yr old boy be thinking about this: who are these white guys, what do they want and why are we telling them my story… will they help me, will they take this disease away from me, will they “bless” my family, will they “take” something, what can I possibly give them, I miss my mother, do they have mothers and kids, what would it be like to have them as my dad. I could go on and 
on, and this I could not get out of my mind that night, as I woke up around 2:30am thinking about this day. Mike then got up after talking some time and told Juniour that we had a gift for him, going into his backpack and pulling out a soccer ball! I was looking at Juniour’s face when Mike did this and as soon as Juniour saw the ball, he smiled from ear to ear and yelled, “ball, ball!!” It was truly an amazing sight for a $6 soccer ball, one that I will not forget. All of Juniour’s friends (about 12 and growing by the minute) were standing 10 yards away taking everything in that was going on. Imagine the perception of AIDS now, Juniour is being visited by white people (mzungu = rich white people) and being presented gifts. AIDS does not look like it did 10 yrs ago now. After the soccer ball came handing out fruit snacks to all of the kids in the village area, they were very hesitant at first, but Mike and I would open a pack and eat them, so they then were very 
interested. This is also a precious sight to get on your knees and hand something of little value to us and light up their world. It is truly awe inspiring, and I would recommend this to anyone. We then went down and visited their garden, of which they have awesome gardens where they grow what they eat. So bad harvest, no food… can you even imagine that. NO WE CAN NOT. Needless to say that Juniour will be in Mike and my hearts for some time, and the Priest family also got to select Juniour as a sponsored child through World Vision right there on the spot. Cool stuff.Home by River / Bridge
There was a home by the bridge that was washed out that needs some explanation. First thing you must know is that Africa is very clean, and I believe they take pride in appearances. They are also dressed nice and their land and homes are also very clean and picked up. But in this home property there was a home where they slept, a hut where they had the kitchen, some sitting place under a beautiful tree, a garden that my wife and brother in law would be very jealous of and pins for chickens and goats. They seriously live off the land. They rely on the land and God to provide food for them. I can truly say that I found myself jealous of this situation, of which you may find offensive or confusing, which I don’t intend to do just sharing what was on my heart. I find myself relying on me for food, shelter and fine things in the states… that it is me that “provides” for my family. I became jealous of another way, that is all. There was no satellite dish, internet connection, phone ringing, playstation playing, just a family enjoying each others company. I get a feeling that because of the solace in this place they hear God, and that they become very good listeners to everything. Something that I know I am lacking and would love to wrap my arms around.
River Knocks Bridge Out
As we were traveling to visit the Chief in the area, we came up on a bridge that had been washed out by a river that was overrun by rain water. So we parked the truck and got out to realize that a bunch of people had showed up to this bridge to observe what was happening and take it in. There were about 15 kids that I could not stay away from, so I grabbed my video camera and started to film them. I have a video camera that has a small screen that folds out from the side and then you can turn that around so the person can see what is being filmed. Now this was a HUGE hit with the kids. They loved seeing themselves and their friends on camera and what starts as being very shy and timid about what this white man wants, turns to smiles and joy when they see their faces. I have also taught the universal greeting on the “Nugs” and “Fist pound”, as they all are quick to join in on that act. Honey – I have also shown them how to explode the fist pound, like our friend Jesse. This was widely accepted and enjoyed by the kids. I just had a blast for about 45 minutes talking and playing with these kids. Amazing stuff.
The Borrowed Bible
There was the instance of the “borrowed Bible”. When I sat next to the preacher and after we were finished singing the hymns, we got into the devotions and looked up some verses. In front of my was a Bible written in the native language of Tonga, which I was interested in following along in that language since he was reading it in English. The preacher reached down and said, “this is in Tonga” and gave me the Bible of the gentlemen to my left, named Nicolas. I opened Nicolas’ Bible to the passage and what I quickly realized was that almost every verse in the WHOLE Bible was highlighted yellow, pink or there were ink underlines, circles and words throughout. This must make God so happy to have a Bible that has been studied throughout. I can truly say that this was the most humble I had felt in some time. My Bible has “some” highlights, but come on, lets be real… I just got taught a huge lesson. Get in the word American and study what it says, and believe it!!! Little does Nicolas know what was shown to me that morning, as he must think what he could offer this American who came to visit them. I will take that memory back with me and do something eternal with it, and I also am sharing that with you all in hopes that Nicolas’ borrowed Bible moves us in our faith with Jesus Christ.
Best Experiences of My Life
3/18/09
This day would rank as one of the best in my lifetime, and I say that for many reasons. Some of which would be impossible to write in English words, as I find myself struggling with expressing what I feel and what God has laided on my heart. The day started with breakfast and devotions with the guys I am here with, which I really enjoy since the men on this trip (Dan Gutwein, Mike Priest, Dan Roberts, Doug Fougnies and Dana (from World Vision) are all guys that I have gained a lot of respect for and proud to spend time with). We then traveled to the Sinazongwae ADP (Area Development Project) that World Vision runs in the community. We were to have devotional time with the staff from the ADP, of which had already started when we arrived. Now this was crazy… I walk in to a group of 10 Zambians singing the hymn “How Great Thou Art”. Now I remember singing hymns when I was young at our church, and I did not enjoy hymns at all!! But this was moving… I started singing as soon as I walked in and it truly felt like I belong amongst them. I chose a seat next to one of them, so I could introduce myself and get to know one more person. Little did I know that I sat next to the Reverend who was going to teach the devotional that morning, and boy did he ever preach. This was one of the most moving messages I had ever heard (no offense Cal, but this guy was good). He spoke about positive thinking and believing that certain things would happen and ask God because by God they will come true. He used the passage in 1 Samuel 16 about King David going against Goliath and how Goliath had a spear, sword and shield and King David went against him with God Almighty. David was not afraid since God had delivered him from Lions and Bears and now He would deliver him from this Philisitine (Goliath). It made me want to get up and conquer the day which we started on when he was done. I could have listened to this preacher for hours, as he was very passionate and charismatic. They rest of the day I will blog with each specific event.
This day would rank as one of the best in my lifetime, and I say that for many reasons. Some of which would be impossible to write in English words, as I find myself struggling with expressing what I feel and what God has laided on my heart. The day started with breakfast and devotions with the guys I am here with, which I really enjoy since the men on this trip (Dan Gutwein, Mike Priest, Dan Roberts, Doug Fougnies and Dana (from World Vision) are all guys that I have gained a lot of respect for and proud to spend time with). We then traveled to the Sinazongwae ADP (Area Development Project) that World Vision runs in the community. We were to have devotional time with the staff from the ADP, of which had already started when we arrived. Now this was crazy… I walk in to a group of 10 Zambians singing the hymn “How Great Thou Art”. Now I remember singing hymns when I was young at our church, and I did not enjoy hymns at all!! But this was moving… I started singing as soon as I walked in and it truly felt like I belong amongst them. I chose a seat next to one of them, so I could introduce myself and get to know one more person. Little did I know that I sat next to the Reverend who was going to teach the devotional that morning, and boy did he ever preach. This was one of the most moving messages I had ever heard (no offense Cal, but this guy was good). He spoke about positive thinking and believing that certain things would happen and ask God because by God they will come true. He used the passage in 1 Samuel 16 about King David going against Goliath and how Goliath had a spear, sword and shield and King David went against him with God Almighty. David was not afraid since God had delivered him from Lions and Bears and now He would deliver him from this Philisitine (Goliath). It made me want to get up and conquer the day which we started on when he was done. I could have listened to this preacher for hours, as he was very passionate and charismatic. They rest of the day I will blog with each specific event.
Travel Stories (to Sinazongwea)
3/17/09
Well today was a travel day from Livingstone to Choma and then we went to Sinazongwea. The most interesting part of the trip was on the way to Sinazongwea, it was absolutely raining like crazy all week but the last 2 hours while on the road to Sinazongwea it was pouring. We turned on a road to go into town and there was a stretch of road about ½ km long that was nothing but mud and puddles. There was a large truck attempting to go through the road and of course it got stuck in front of us. Right in the middle of the road so there was no real chance for us to go around the truck. But our driver felt like we could go around so he attempted on the left side. As Dan Roberts and Mike Priest were telling the driver there was no way we would make it the driver continued and slid right into the ditch on the left side. Stuck was our van. At first we were frustrated, but then a group of men and kids showed up to check out the scene. And they continued to show up. Now you must understand that it was raining like crazy and all of these people are soaking wet with no shoes and one layer of clothes (typically a torn shirt and pair of shorts, occasionally they will have some sort of flip flops.) As we found out later, these were most likely there only set of clothes. I took the chance and got out of the car and started to video and take digital pictures of the kids and some of the young adults on my camera, what they loved the most was showing them their picture on the camera. I also took video of the kids and then played it back to them. They loved talking about their friends on the video as they were shown. Their smiles and expressions are something that I pray I do not forget. So here is this frustrating event (to silly Americans) that turns out to be an EXPERIENCE. I remember getting back into the van and realizing that God just showed me how he goes to work… every single minute of the day. We also needed a large tractor to pull us out and that would not have been available if that truck did not get stuck in front of us first, because it was that truck that radioed for the tractor. God definitely showed up before us to show that He is in control and we must rely on giving that up to Him. Lets face it, He gets it done.
Well today was a travel day from Livingstone to Choma and then we went to Sinazongwea. The most interesting part of the trip was on the way to Sinazongwea, it was absolutely raining like crazy all week but the last 2 hours while on the road to Sinazongwea it was pouring. We turned on a road to go into town and there was a stretch of road about ½ km long that was nothing but mud and puddles. There was a large truck attempting to go through the road and of course it got stuck in front of us. Right in the middle of the road so there was no real chance for us to go around the truck. But our driver felt like we could go around so he attempted on the left side. As Dan Roberts and Mike Priest were telling the driver there was no way we would make it the driver continued and slid right into the ditch on the left side. Stuck was our van. At first we were frustrated, but then a group of men and kids showed up to check out the scene. And they continued to show up. Now you must understand that it was raining like crazy and all of these people are soaking wet with no shoes and one layer of clothes (typically a torn shirt and pair of shorts, occasionally they will have some sort of flip flops.) As we found out later, these were most likely there only set of clothes. I took the chance and got out of the car and started to video and take digital pictures of the kids and some of the young adults on my camera, what they loved the most was showing them their picture on the camera. I also took video of the kids and then played it back to them. They loved talking about their friends on the video as they were shown. Their smiles and expressions are something that I pray I do not forget. So here is this frustrating event (to silly Americans) that turns out to be an EXPERIENCE. I remember getting back into the van and realizing that God just showed me how he goes to work… every single minute of the day. We also needed a large tractor to pull us out and that would not have been available if that truck did not get stuck in front of us first, because it was that truck that radioed for the tractor. God definitely showed up before us to show that He is in control and we must rely on giving that up to Him. Lets face it, He gets it done.
Journey Begins
3/13/09
We have finally arrived in Lusaka, Zambia after 40hrs of travel. To say that I am worn out would be an understatement. Mike Priest and I are finally in our room and trying to get situated. Question, why cant all of the plugs be the same. South Africa had some weird electrical plug and now the Zambia plug is different then that one. Funny stuff. We are staying in a nice hotel even for the United States. Dan says that it is the nicest hotel in Lusaka. We have met the guys that will be traveling with us throughout the country the next week. Victor is the name of the leader, and Chanda is the name of our driver. They both are very nice and polite and seem really excited to show us their country and that we are here to hang out with them.
All of the preparation for this trip has ended, and the journey is about to begin tomorrow morning. We are 9 hrs ahead of AZ time, which makes it really fun (I feel like it is 10pm at night, but it is the middle of the day here.) it is currently 4pm, and the nights plan is… skype the family when I get the internet working, shower, nap, dinner, then fall asleep to prepare for our day tomorrow.
We have finally arrived in Lusaka, Zambia after 40hrs of travel. To say that I am worn out would be an understatement. Mike Priest and I are finally in our room and trying to get situated. Question, why cant all of the plugs be the same. South Africa had some weird electrical plug and now the Zambia plug is different then that one. Funny stuff. We are staying in a nice hotel even for the United States. Dan says that it is the nicest hotel in Lusaka. We have met the guys that will be traveling with us throughout the country the next week. Victor is the name of the leader, and Chanda is the name of our driver. They both are very nice and polite and seem really excited to show us their country and that we are here to hang out with them.
All of the preparation for this trip has ended, and the journey is about to begin tomorrow morning. We are 9 hrs ahead of AZ time, which makes it really fun (I feel like it is 10pm at night, but it is the middle of the day here.) it is currently 4pm, and the nights plan is… skype the family when I get the internet working, shower, nap, dinner, then fall asleep to prepare for our day tomorrow.
Monday, March 16, 2009
Only in Africa (Safari Day)
3/16/09
This was definately an amazing day of enjoying God's creation. Only in Africa can you get within 30 ft of these animals. All of these pictures were taken with my small digital camera, so if you see the animal really well in the photo (they were really close!!)
Hippo
Croc
Impala (not GM model)
over 40 Hippos
This was definately an amazing day of enjoying God's creation. Only in Africa can you get within 30 ft of these animals. All of these pictures were taken with my small digital camera, so if you see the animal really well in the photo (they were really close!!)
Hippo
Croc
Big Deer (Keddu??)
Elephant
Hog Family
Impala (not GM model)
over 40 Hippos
We also saw a leopard stalk an Impala and almost attack, then the leopard went up and laid in a tree. I did not get the pictures, but my friend did. Sorry i could not post them. The good news is that we leave for the village tomorrow morning early. Got to go to bed, since I must wake up in 5 hours to make the bus.
Sunday, March 15, 2009
Hotels in Zambia
Okay guys. If you ever walk into a hotel room and see "decorations" hanging above the bed like these in the picture... you may not be the only one occupying the room for the night. Now you may think I am joking, but the only reason for that is you have never slept in a net wrapped around your whole bed and tucked under the mattress. This way no spiders, mosquitos or beetles can get into your bed and bite you. Word of caution though... check y
our net throughly, if you have hole in net, then they will find the hole and get into your bed. Also, make sure when you prepare the net around the bed, you don't trap a "friend" in the bed with you. That would be a horrible experience! Since I am rooming with Survivor Man himself, Mike Priest, I decided to watch his approach on handling this "friend" situation. First he turned the A/C onto "stun" mode... according to "MIKE", mosquitos don't like it cold. Which explains why they live in Zambia, which is hot and humid. Mike also gave me the suggestion to not "trap" the friends in the bed with me and check the bed for any spiders. Now, that is weird, and here is why. When camping, I expect bugs and stuff to crawl in the tent, etc. But when you are at a nice hotel, they DON'T belong there!!! So checking my foam bed, with comforter and "throw" pillows for bugs is just beyond me. Honey, looking forward to this experience with you in the future.
So you get in your sleeping clothes, spray deet all over your body, pull down your sheets and check for bugs, tuck the net around 90% of the mattress, climb through that hole left, tuck the final 10% so your enclosed, get into bed and fall asleep with "no worries". Fun times in Africa!!!
our net throughly, if you have hole in net, then they will find the hole and get into your bed. Also, make sure when you prepare the net around the bed, you don't trap a "friend" in the bed with you. That would be a horrible experience! Since I am rooming with Survivor Man himself, Mike Priest, I decided to watch his approach on handling this "friend" situation. First he turned the A/C onto "stun" mode... according to "MIKE", mosquitos don't like it cold. Which explains why they live in Zambia, which is hot and humid. Mike also gave me the suggestion to not "trap" the friends in the bed with me and check the bed for any spiders. Now, that is weird, and here is why. When camping, I expect bugs and stuff to crawl in the tent, etc. But when you are at a nice hotel, they DON'T belong there!!! So checking my foam bed, with comforter and "throw" pillows for bugs is just beyond me. Honey, looking forward to this experience with you in the future.So you get in your sleeping clothes, spray deet all over your body, pull down your sheets and check for bugs, tuck the net around 90% of the mattress, climb through that hole left, tuck the final 10% so your enclosed, get into bed and fall asleep with "no worries". Fun times in Africa!!!
Soccer Balls Part1
3/14/09
So we were leaving Lusaka on our way to Choma and then Livingstone, and we wanted to go buy some soccer balls to give the kids around town and the villages. Needless to say we ended up with a van full of soccer balls. What you fail to realize is that soccer balls in the villages are EVERYTHING. They make their own soccer balls out of trash bags and twine... amazing. As you can see from the picture, if you are outside the van and it drives by you walking on the street (you can see the balls through the windows). There are seriously some kids that can keep up with a van going 20mph, as they run after the van asking for a soccer ball. I ended up throwing a ball out the window to 3 boys running after the van, and they raised their hands in the air triumphantly as they grabbed the ball rolling down the street.
One time, we stopped at a gas station to fill up the van, and four kids came up to the van asking for a ball (they had seen the balls in the van through the windows). So we started handing balls out to the kids, and more and more kids kept showing up out of no where. We stopped handing the balls out, and started giving bags of gummy bears. The joy on their faces were priceless!! FOR A SOCCER BALL!! Johnson kids, soak that in as I am also. As we were pulling away from the station, 5 girls were walking along the road (ages 5 - 13). We asked the driver to slow down, opened the windows, and told the girls to stop... we had "candy" for them. We then handed them these bags of gummy bears, and I remember very vividly the 5 year old girls face. She had straggly hair and big eyes, and a smile to die for. She touched my heart at that moment. No Honey - I did not put her in my bag to bring home, although I did think about it. This I did catch on video (which I would post if I knew how).
I also thought... only in Zambia, could a van full of guys pull up to 5 young girls telling them we have candy for them, and have the girls approach the van with no real suspicion. What has the media and sinful men done to our country. Well enough of that thought. Soccer Balls Part2 will come once we get into the village (Tues - Friday).
So we were leaving Lusaka on our way to Choma and then Livingstone, and we wanted to go buy some soccer balls to give the kids around town and the villages. Needless to say we ended up with a van full of soccer balls. What you fail to realize is that soccer balls in the villages are EVERYTHING. They make their own soccer balls out of trash bags and twine... amazing. As you can see from the picture, if you are outside the van and it drives by you walking on the street (you can see the balls through the windows). There are seriously some kids that can keep up with a van going 20mph, as they run after the van asking for a soccer ball. I ended up throwing a ball out the window to 3 boys running after the van, and they raised their hands in the air triumphantly as they grabbed the ball rolling down the street.
One time, we stopped at a gas station to fill up the van, and four kids came up to the van asking for a ball (they had seen the balls in the van through the windows). So we started handing balls out to the kids, and more and more kids kept showing up out of no where. We stopped handing the balls out, and started giving bags of gummy bears. The joy on their faces were priceless!! FOR A SOCCER BALL!! Johnson kids, soak that in as I am also. As we were pulling away from the station, 5 girls were walking along the road (ages 5 - 13). We asked the driver to slow down, opened the windows, and told the girls to stop... we had "candy" for them. We then handed them these bags of gummy bears, and I remember very vividly the 5 year old girls face. She had straggly hair and big eyes, and a smile to die for. She touched my heart at that moment. No Honey - I did not put her in my bag to bring home, although I did think about it. This I did catch on video (which I would post if I knew how).
I also thought... only in Zambia, could a van full of guys pull up to 5 young girls telling them we have candy for them, and have the girls approach the van with no real suspicion. What has the media and sinful men done to our country. Well enough of that thought. Soccer Balls Part2 will come once we get into the village (Tues - Friday).
Tourism
Well these 2 days (Sunday and Monday) are and will be centered more around tourism. We went to Victoria Falls today and then a wild game park tomorrow (Monday). This is definately amazing stuff, but very surreal because of the desire and focus to want to go into the village and be with the families and kids. Although this did not happen because of the rains Monday, it will start on Tuesday afternoon until Friday afternoon. We have been driving through the culture and experiencing the joy of the people of Zambia. Great stuff.
I find myself getting frustrated with God, and wondering why we cant get into the village because of rains. Darn it, You control the rains and can dry up the roads and get us there. Then I realize in my silly state, that God does not "need" me to accomplish what He needs done in these villages. He desires me to be "willing and able" to do the things He asks of us. Well I am willing and able, so I know that the conclusion to this week will be AWESOME. I am very anxious for Tuesday.
I find myself getting frustrated with God, and wondering why we cant get into the village because of rains. Darn it, You control the rains and can dry up the roads and get us there. Then I realize in my silly state, that God does not "need" me to accomplish what He needs done in these villages. He desires me to be "willing and able" to do the things He asks of us. Well I am willing and able, so I know that the conclusion to this week will be AWESOME. I am very anxious for Tuesday.
Plan B
Well, we finally got word that we will be on Plan B, and not traveling to the village where the school was built 2 years ago with Hoops of Hope funding. This is very disappointing, which means a lost day with the kids in a village. We are still going to Sinazongwa on Tuesday for 3 days, which will be an amazing experience in the village with the kids. All this makes me think of something... does God ever have a "Plan B"? i dont think so. there is NOTHING that surprises God so he has to go to a second plan. His plan is the plan. So this has been His plan from the beginning. I am preparing my heart for what God is about to show me in this small village (Sinazongwa), as we will be handing out bicycles for care givers and traveling with the care givers to help those infected with HIV. God knows all things and has been preparing the way for this week. Bring it on God... i am ready!
Friday, March 13, 2009
Great News!!!
3/14/09
Just sitting at breakfast at the hotel, and Dan Gutwein (my buddy whos son started Hoops of Hope) just walked up. What a great guy. He has been in Africa for the past 5 days, and now the trip feels like it is starting. He is locked and loaded with seeing the kids and experiencing God through the kids. Dan also said that he is very close to talking them into taking us into the deep bush (which was put on hold because of the rains)... they are calling him in an hour to see if we could do that!! We pray that we can do "Plan A" instead of "Plan B". Both will be good, but as Mike just said, "Plan A is always better, that is why it is called Plan A and not B" Well said Mike. I can always count on Mike to have a very insightful comment.
I can not believe how blessed I am to be doing this with 2 of my best friends, Mike and Dan. These are 2 guys that i can truly say i would like to be more like... Godly Men that challenge my to be a better follower, husband and father.
Just sitting at breakfast at the hotel, and Dan Gutwein (my buddy whos son started Hoops of Hope) just walked up. What a great guy. He has been in Africa for the past 5 days, and now the trip feels like it is starting. He is locked and loaded with seeing the kids and experiencing God through the kids. Dan also said that he is very close to talking them into taking us into the deep bush (which was put on hold because of the rains)... they are calling him in an hour to see if we could do that!! We pray that we can do "Plan A" instead of "Plan B". Both will be good, but as Mike just said, "Plan A is always better, that is why it is called Plan A and not B" Well said Mike. I can always count on Mike to have a very insightful comment.
I can not believe how blessed I am to be doing this with 2 of my best friends, Mike and Dan. These are 2 guys that i can truly say i would like to be more like... Godly Men that challenge my to be a better follower, husband and father.
"Caged Animal"
3/13/09
I forgot to tell you about the anxiety that I was feeling on the flight from London to Johanseburg. It was a 10hr flight and i could not sleep at all. I had a window seat and my bud, Mike Priest, was very comfortable on the aisle seat next to me. Here is some travel advise... dont every sit by the window!! When your aisle sitter (ie. Mike Priest) falls asleep and you have to go to the bathroom, TOUGH LUCK. When you feel like a caged animal and want to walk around and Mike is asleep, TOUGH LUCK. the final 3hrs of the flight were horrible. But it is done now and i had to share.
Needless to say i have changed all of my seats on the return flight!!! Just make sure that on your travels over seas you dont become the "caged animal".
Arrival in Lusaka, Zambia
3/13/09
We have finally arrived in Lusaka, Zambia after 40hrs of travel. To say that I am worn out would be an understatement. Mike Priest and I are finally in our room and trying to get situated. Question, why cant all of the plugs be the same. South Africa had some weird electrical plug and now the Zambia plug is different then that one. Funny stuff. We are staying in a nice hotel even for the United States. Dan says that it is the nicest hotel in Lusaka. We have met the guys that will be traveling with us throughout the country the next week. Victor is the name of the leader, and Chanda is the name of our driver. They both are very nice and polite and seem really excited to show us their country and that we are here to hang out with them.
All of the preparation for this trip has ended, and the journey is about to begin tomorrow morning. We are 9 hrs ahead of AZ time, which makes it really fun (I feel like it is 10pm at night, but it is the middle of the day here.) it is currently 4pm, and the nights plan is… skype the family when I get the internet working, shower, nap, dinner, then fall asleep to prepare for our day tomorrow.
We have finally arrived in Lusaka, Zambia after 40hrs of travel. To say that I am worn out would be an understatement. Mike Priest and I are finally in our room and trying to get situated. Question, why cant all of the plugs be the same. South Africa had some weird electrical plug and now the Zambia plug is different then that one. Funny stuff. We are staying in a nice hotel even for the United States. Dan says that it is the nicest hotel in Lusaka. We have met the guys that will be traveling with us throughout the country the next week. Victor is the name of the leader, and Chanda is the name of our driver. They both are very nice and polite and seem really excited to show us their country and that we are here to hang out with them.
All of the preparation for this trip has ended, and the journey is about to begin tomorrow morning. We are 9 hrs ahead of AZ time, which makes it really fun (I feel like it is 10pm at night, but it is the middle of the day here.) it is currently 4pm, and the nights plan is… skype the family when I get the internet working, shower, nap, dinner, then fall asleep to prepare for our day tomorrow.
Flight to Johanesburg (10hr flight)
3/13/09
Just before getting on the plane to Johanesburg, I found out that a friend and customer in the collision industry lost his life the night before. This guy held a special place in my heart and I was very sad to hear of the news. My prayers and thoughts are with his wife and children as they try and deal with life without him in it. I know that God has plans for all things that happen, and His glory will be revealed. I just hope that I am part of that when it comes to him.
This flight has been a difficult 10hrs, as I got a window seat and felt very much like a caged animal for the last 3 hrs of the flight. I surely can not wait to get off of the plane. I still don’t even know what to expect, but know that that time is coming within the next 8hrs. we have a 5hr layover, then a 2hr flight into Lusaka, Zambia to begin the journey. I definitely feel disconnected from work, which is a very good thing for me. as I know I wont be thinking about work for the next 11 days. The focus will be on these kids, and trying to see their hearts through their eyes. Looking forward to some powerful pictures that I will post shortly.
I am starting to miss Lindsay and the kids, but know that I am accomplishing something for the family and that makes me very proud.
Just before getting on the plane to Johanesburg, I found out that a friend and customer in the collision industry lost his life the night before. This guy held a special place in my heart and I was very sad to hear of the news. My prayers and thoughts are with his wife and children as they try and deal with life without him in it. I know that God has plans for all things that happen, and His glory will be revealed. I just hope that I am part of that when it comes to him.
This flight has been a difficult 10hrs, as I got a window seat and felt very much like a caged animal for the last 3 hrs of the flight. I surely can not wait to get off of the plane. I still don’t even know what to expect, but know that that time is coming within the next 8hrs. we have a 5hr layover, then a 2hr flight into Lusaka, Zambia to begin the journey. I definitely feel disconnected from work, which is a very good thing for me. as I know I wont be thinking about work for the next 11 days. The focus will be on these kids, and trying to see their hearts through their eyes. Looking forward to some powerful pictures that I will post shortly.
I am starting to miss Lindsay and the kids, but know that I am accomplishing something for the family and that makes me very proud.
Flight to London (11hr flight)
3/12/09
Well I am sitting on the plane about to land in London. This 11hr flight was not as bad as I expected, as I was able to sleep 7hrs of it. I can honestly say that I still don’t know what I am in store for, I still am thinking about the comforts of Western society. How can I charge my phone, my laptop does not have enough battery power and these seats are tighter than I expected. I wonder if the children that I will encounter in Africa 14hrs from now, ever waste a minute of their lives worrying about those things. Instead they worry about… where will my next meal come from, does anyone love me and what my parents looked like. My prayer is that these children see the love that I have for my heavenly Father. It will be the common language that we share… unconditional love.
Just think of the difference between 24hrs of flight time, and it probably does not even need to be across the world to find. My kids worry about what is “mine” and not “yours”, where as these kids from Africa think, I don’t have much at all, and whats “mine” is “yours”. I have this feeling deep down that Africa is going to teach me a lot. I just read 2 Samuel 5, about David becoming King over all of Israel. Interesting thing is that he was anointed King 15 yrs prior to actually becoming King. I think that God has a plan for me and my family, but it must be His timing and not mine. I can honestly say I want to see it NOW and get on with it, but I must look to be patient because God definitely has some work to do on my heart. Well, it is that time to shut the laptop and “begin the descent into London”. Until next time.
Well I am sitting on the plane about to land in London. This 11hr flight was not as bad as I expected, as I was able to sleep 7hrs of it. I can honestly say that I still don’t know what I am in store for, I still am thinking about the comforts of Western society. How can I charge my phone, my laptop does not have enough battery power and these seats are tighter than I expected. I wonder if the children that I will encounter in Africa 14hrs from now, ever waste a minute of their lives worrying about those things. Instead they worry about… where will my next meal come from, does anyone love me and what my parents looked like. My prayer is that these children see the love that I have for my heavenly Father. It will be the common language that we share… unconditional love.
Just think of the difference between 24hrs of flight time, and it probably does not even need to be across the world to find. My kids worry about what is “mine” and not “yours”, where as these kids from Africa think, I don’t have much at all, and whats “mine” is “yours”. I have this feeling deep down that Africa is going to teach me a lot. I just read 2 Samuel 5, about David becoming King over all of Israel. Interesting thing is that he was anointed King 15 yrs prior to actually becoming King. I think that God has a plan for me and my family, but it must be His timing and not mine. I can honestly say I want to see it NOW and get on with it, but I must look to be patient because God definitely has some work to do on my heart. Well, it is that time to shut the laptop and “begin the descent into London”. Until next time.
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