Anticipation

oh the Anticipation of the journey . . .

Yes, the journey is near !  Sometimes the anticipation can just seem to be agonizing, much like waiting for Christmas morning or summer vacation as a child.  About a week from now the Mission Team will depart led by Pastor Doug Vinez of Lake Norman Fellowship.  There is still so much to do, passport copies to be made, personal items to gather, packing of not only our clothes but the much needed supplies we are asked to bring from the "wish list" provided by some of the Mission areas. 

Of course there is still the dreaded "weigh in" too . . .  no, not for us, but for our luggage (lol).  There is a weight limit on our bags as well as a limit to how many we may take.  It takes time to readjust supplies when needed . . . it can be a bit like a free for all!  Where ever it fits and is still under the weight limit is where it goes, plain and simple.  :) 

I am feeling privileged to return to Mwandi again along with some great team mates.  I believe a part of my heart will always remain there.  So many great adventures and memories, not to mention some really awesome people.  It will be good to see friends again and to see how the children have grown.  Maybe its a bit like being a Grandparent before my time :), or I guess we could just go with being an Auntie, aye!?!

Good night to all, rest well and remember to cast your cares and concerns on Him who is able . . . able to do all things . . . the one who loves you so dearly and sincerely cares about you <3

Blessings

Kandiana

     I was first introduced to the term "Kandiana" during my first mission trip in the remote village of Mwandi, Zambia in 2008.  Mwandi is home to the Lozi people and is a place in which I have experienced an atmosphere of love and welcoming.  In the Lozi (Silozi) language I am told that Kandiana means "the forgotten ones" and is the name of an area in the village that is partitioned off for the elderly and others whom have no family to help tend their needs or have been shunned for some reason.  It is a difficult place for many to visit, yet it is so rewarding to see their faces light with joy upon the entrance of visitors.  Though many of these older folks do not speak English, it is an honor to just spend some time with them as they choose to tell you stories, share music, smiles and hugs.  You may even be asked or directed to dance with them in joy to a song with words and sounds that only your soul can understand.

     For me the term "Kandiana" stretches across borders and boundaries to the "forgotten ones" everywhere.   To those who fall through the cracks of the "system" as we say in the States and to those that the world counts as expendable or invisible.  These folks are everywhere and can be seen if you choose to honestly be aware of them.  We are not meant to fix everyone's problems, situations, and issues in a day . . . though we can walk beside them . . . encourage them . . . possibly share a meal with them . . . and value them as a brother or sister in Christ. 

When you find a forgotten or invisible person in your path, what will you choose to do?  Will you walk on too busy or to afraid to care . . . or will you take a moments time to acknowledge and value that person?   . . . just a thought . . .


Blessings

"We cannot all do great things, but we can do small things with great love."  Mother Teresa