A lot of people have asked me if the trip to Rwanda was life-changing. There is no doubt that the experience of the trip was unbelievable and amazing. There is no doubt that I came back a different person. I am changed. But it sounds so generic to say that the trip was life-changing. I guess it sounds generic because I came back and my life and the routine of my life is still the same. So the question of whether my life has changed or how it has changed is still difficult to answer because the extent of it remains to be seen, even though I am no doubt - changed.
Time will tell the way that it changes my life though. It will become obvious in the decisions I make. How will I help others? How will I care for others and serve others? How will I empower others to help themselves? Can I live fully present and with extreme gratitude? How will I take better care of our planet?
I recently heard the phrase life-expanding in place of life-changing. I like it. Expanding. It is so true - the experience was expanding. I am expanded and what is important to me has expanded. It's about growth. Part of my growth is because of the people. The people in Rwanda and the Americans that travelled there in our group have become a part of me... Friends with a special place in my heart and my mind. They have all challenged me and encouraged me and loved me. They have expanded my heart and my life.
So in Africa, I had life-expanding experiences. And I formed life-expanding friendships. And maybe it sounds generic. But my life is changed.
This will be my last real post on Africa. These pictures are of my new friends. I am so lucky to know them. And I miss them a lot.
I know that this is a ridiculous number of pictures. :)
Bob Jr, one of our translators. He had a cell phone with a Bruno Mars song as a ring tone.
Jean-Vierre. One word - captivating. His personality is amazing and really draws you in!
Michelle, say cheese!
Anna and Michelle
Hi Kathy!
Rachel was one of our drivers and she did a great job and was a lot of fun to have on our team!
New friends :) Valerie and Kathy
Our other translator, Dora - everyday she wore the greatest earrings!
Patrice - simply one of the kindest people ever.
Joseph - such a warm smile.
Especiosa and Valerie - two of my favorite people ever
Theadocie!
New friends!
Some of the men.
Break time...
Matt and Bob Jr.
Aloys and his motorcycle! This guy has the most contagious laugh.
Especiosa singing a song and showing us her dancing style. One of my favorite things - ever.
Veronaisa joining in on the singing and dancing!
Kathy is showing the women the videos and pictures of their dancing and our work.
Sleepy workers...
Friends :)
Aloys practically came and sat in our laps - he wanted to be in the picture so bad!
Love.
:)
Shade!!
Jean-Vierre really connected with all of us. Here, Matt is showing him some pictures.
This warms my heart.
One of my favorite pictures! It is true though that a camera cannot capture the personality of Especiosa.
Valerie! Such a kind soul.
The women of the Rwandan Water Team.
Valerie and Kathy - again!
Everyone (or at least most of us)!
The American team... and we're not in our blue shirts!
Can you count the people in this car? I'll give you a hint... it's 13!
Safari! Absolutely beautiful scenery. Amazing.
I love Africa.
