Final Blog by… Devon, Maddie B, Katelyn, Abbey, and Megan
Today’s the day we leave the place
that has quickly felt like home. The 2018 Tanzania Group is one of a kind and
we know that we will never forget the memories that were made. Our theme, “Live
Boldly” could not have fit more perfectly, it truly showed throughout every
single person. We saw it in the ways that each person wasn’t afraid to try new
things and really embrace the atmosphere and culture in Tanzania.
There were many highlights of this
trip. We started off with an adventure to the Marangu Falls where we were able
to share our first laughs watching everyone struggle to get up and down the
slippery “stairs”. A day at the falls was a great way to kick off our amazing
adventure. We were all in awe of the beauty that God has created here in
Africa.
Throughout the two weeks we tested
our strengths at the fields with the Mamas that we grew very close to. Farming
with them helped us fully understand the culture here and the way of life women
in Tanzania experience. Also, seeing how welcoming and proud they were of their
homes really affected everyone. It
opened our eyes to how easy we have it at home and how hard these people work
for the things they have. We saw God in these Mamas and how they really care
for everyone and their community. The Mamas were really inspiring because they
are very strong, individual women that come together so they can have people to
lean on.
Going to Upendo Orphanage and Agano
Preschool created so many life changing experiences and strong bonds we never
thought we’d make. The kids at each place impacted us all in different ways.
They touched our hearts with their smiles, laughter, and pure joy. It was cool
to see how anxious all the kids were to learn and how much they cared about
their education. We saw God through the teachers, orphanage workers, and
through all the kids we met. The patience and love that all the adults showed
towards the kids was unbelievable. We will never forget the smiles, laughter,
and little hugs from the cute kiddos.
Mikocheni was one of the most eye
opening experiences for many. Everyone had so little, yet they were so happy.
The amount of laughter in the village brought joy to our group. It was hard to
see all of this and not want to help impact them in a positive way. It was
turning point in our trip that allowed us to open our minds to the life here in
Tanzania.
The Safari was unreal. We saw
monkeys, along with many other animals! Devon specifically loved the monkeys. We
camped as one big group. We had tons of fun. It was a great way to end the trip
and bond with one another. It was our chance to finally feel like tourists,
which was relaxing. It doesn’t seem real that we are leaving this incredible
place in a matter of hours.
Overall, we enjoyed getting
sunburnt, spending time with each other, spending a LOT of money, and serving
others. Some people got sick, but it passed. There were many new experiences
that we encountered but everyone did a great job embracing life here and we
soon began to love it. It will be hard to go home. The trip was filled with
many emotions including a very needed final group meeting that brought lots
closure to end the trip. It will be a hard adjustment for many to leave the
“pole pole” atmosphere and return to the busy life of Minnesnowta. We hope to
bring everything that we learned here back home and continue to serve others. It
was truly an unforgettable trip that we will remember forever.
Nikki and Rich – see you tomorrow
Tami, Jeff, & Grace- Excited to
see you but I don’t think I’m ready to come home hehe
Dave and Julie- I’m ready to come
home, but I know I’ll miss Tanzania a lot.
Jeff, Rachel, and Ella – Happy
Easter, see you tomorrow! Love you!
Maya, we miss you so much and we’re
soo soo excited to see your cute ginger face!! We hope you didn’t die without
us ;)
Love, all your friends
Eric & Kay – I’m not ready to
leave this place but I’m excited to see you guys and tell you all about it!
Love you lots!
So happy your experiences were filled with so much learning, appreciation and love! Can't wait to see you Maddie B!
ReplyDeleteWow! What a life changing experience full of wonderful memories! Looking forward to your return back home Anika!-The Family
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