Final Farewell for Malawi 2012

Our Malawian adventure is nearing its close, and we have had such a productive and meaningful time in this beautiful country, the Warm Heart of Africa. Much as been accomplished. Examples: Cistern Project is now in progress (funded by Rotary Club of Roanoke Valley); Morning Meetings are continued at the school with the LEA component added; students enjoyed letters written by children in Roanoke City and Roanoke County Public Schools; dictionaries were donated to the school (thank you Virginia State Reading Association); pencils and school supplies were provided for teachers and learners at Malemia Primary (thank you Maggie and students at Salem High School); handwashing stations have been repaired and reinstituted at the school; teacher desks have been made; a new group of girls have been selected for the Malawi Chibale Project; girls continue sewing handbags and learned to sew Destinie Pads this year; classrooms were painted by RU students; and the list goes on. A multitude of effort has been devoted to our beloved Malemia Primary School, and it has been such an honor to travel with the fine group of students from RU. I have learned so much from them and I have enjoyed their enthusiasm for service and learning. They are true colleagues and I know their families are proud of them. The groups traveling with us from North Carolina A&T State University and Virginia Tech have been outstanding as well. Teamwork is abundant in this group! As we prepare to leave Malawi, and as I reflect upon all these accomplishments, I know each traveler in our group is leaving a richer, more blessed person than they were before. We have learned many lessons. We have grown as teachers. We leave better human beings as a result of our being here. The love, friendship and spirit shared by our Malawian friends will live on in our hearts for a lifetime. I close with the words of Malawian William Kamkwamba, The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind, "I went to sleep dreaming of Malawi, and all the things made possible when your dreams are powered by your heart." ....And dream we will!