Too many goodbyes

“He is able more than able to handle anything that comes my way. He is able more than able to accomplish what concerns me today. He is able more than able to make me what he wants me to be.”

This song was playing in the van this afternoon after we had left Syamyala Basic School. It is the very overcrowded school I had previously visited one morning. I wanted to come back in the afternoon to see the primary grades – classes up to 101 in grades 1 – 4. There are 5 classrooms in poor condition. A latrine construction project is underway but not yet completed as there are currently NO latrines at the school! And this is the school that won the reading competition! I am in awe of the teachers – they do their planning and grading under a tree in good weather and on the very narrow porches in front of the classrooms in foul. Is God able to address all of this? Of course He is but I think it is us who are called to be that means of accomplishment. Now please do not think I am trying to lay guilt upon you, my faithful readers. I would put “me” rather than “us” but it seemed a little arrogant. God will call those He wishes to use here. Your call may be in some very different arena but (a little editorializing here!) I think all believers have a call to help in some field or other – time, resources, money. Whatever. OK – enough preaching!

The morning today was my training teachers time. We had cut the time down as we thought our numbers were going to be very small due to the exam week schedule. We had originally invited 20 but 13 actually showed up so I was very pleased. I had pretty much put my unease about addressing teachers with all these problems, to rest. I am here to only do what I can.

We started with just listening to their concerns and needs. Many of them centered around lack of supplies and books (many were lost in the spring floods here – another story) and of course overcrowding. Then I had some materials for them which we went over and them did some exercises I hope they can use in the classroom. The tiniest surface scratch but I think it was worthwhile. Some of the teachers had walked a great distance to come and a number of them had never seen Lake Kariba so a visit was in order. We broke a little early to walk over but just as we were preparing to leave, the bus returned with some of the team. So we were able to drive them over! What a gift. It was fun to watch their excitement at the sight which I have sat and watched for hours. We all returned to the office for lunch and then Kingsley and I headed out to the school.

Upon our return, we got together with the staff for our farewells. It was, for me, an emotional time of mutual appreciation and encouragement. Gifts were exchanged and some tears shed. It was a precious time. I did not have to say a final goodbye to my closest friends here so that helped but there many others that are dear who I will not see again. I am certainly looking forward to seeing all of you at home but the leaving is rather wrenching.

Luckily the day ended with another great dinner and good conversation and the promise of an easy day tomorrow. No alarms will be set so that already starts the day well!

Good night

My dear Betty

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