Goodbye now, we shall meet again

“Goodbye now, we shall meet again.”
Those were the final words spoken by the children in Kwanjana. They moved us deeply. We hope that one day we will see these children again! In Kwanjana… but even more, we hope that all of them will come to know Him.

It already feels like a long time ago. We have been back in the Netherlands for two weeks now. Two completely different worlds. Physically we are home, but our thoughts are still often in Malawi. We look back on an unforgettable, enriching, beautiful and valuable time.

We remember well when we arrived in Blantyre. We were tired and had no idea what we were getting ourselves into. We looked around in amazement. Things we had only seen in pictures suddenly became reality: people carrying buckets on their heads, people selling goods along the roadside, bicycles not used to transport people, but to transport items. Overcrowded minibuses, motorbikes weaving between cars, and people riding on the backs of lorries.

Two days after arriving in Malawi, we went to Kwanjana for the first time. We bounced our way to school over the uneven road. Sometimes with our heads knocking against the roof or almost ending up on the lap of the person next to us, but it never dampened the joy. Over the bridge or through the water — you always reach the other side.

At the school we were allowed to observe and teach in Standard 4. We started with a lesson about the Netherlands. Of course, stroopwafels, liquorice and peppermints had to be tasted. The stroopwafels were delicious, the liquorice was not so popular but bravely eaten, and the peppermints apparently tasted like toothpaste. The children loved the lesson — and so did we.

Our favourite lesson was definitely making bracelets and necklaces. The children got to work with a large collection of beads. Some made more bracelets than others. Every now and then colourful beads would scatter across the floor. Immediately several children would dive down to gather them all back up. With a smile on their face, they simply started again. The children and people in Malawi are grateful for the smallest things. We have so much to learn from that.

After four wonderful weeks it was unfortunately time to say goodbye to everyone at the school. They sang for us and gave speeches. We also received a colourful skirt as a gift. Then we drove away for the last time (for now) and waved until we could no longer see them.

How we miss these dear children and people at the school! They may be poor, yet so rich in faith, gratitude and hospitality. Each of them has found a place in our hearts. We have seen how hard people work in Kwanjana and at For A Change. Every day the children receive education, food and spiritual nourishment there.

Will you join us in praying for these children, the teachers, and all the work being done in Kwanjana?