Home is the place you come from, the place you "hang your hat", the place where your family is, or maybe it's where you keep your favorite books. I was thinking about home this weekend since it was Christmas and I am "home". Well I'm at my parent's house which was home for me for a lot of years but now it isn't as much. Part of growing up is shifting from your childhood home becoming your parent's house with things the way they want them and you having another place that is your own. But since I'm with family in a familiar place in some ways it is "home". Yet I'm also torn because I've come to feel "at home" in Malawi - not just another city but another country and continent with another culture. My roommate and coworkers at Malamulo have become family and I feel at home there. This year even some of my "real" family is there and so that might be part of the reason I feel torn... It made me think more about the meaning of home, I guess and what it actually means.
I believe that when you go through challenging times with a friend or with anyone you become bonded to that person in a deeper way. I think that is part of the reason I feel close to the people I live and work with in Malawi because we have been through SO MUCH together. I think specifically of Cristy - we have lived together for the past 2.5 years and have been through highs and lows and every days and all in between together. She is the closest friend I have and knows me very well and feels like family. For me our house in Malawi feels like "home" and I think it does for her as well.
Maybe the holidays bring out this kind of reflection and the meaning of "home". I guess for me there is more than one place and maybe more than one meaning. Home is where I feel the most comfortable and where I can be myself the most....AND i think my favorite books might also play a part. :) I'm thankful for these safe and comfortable places that are a shelter and haven for me in so many ways.
Sunday, December 26, 2010
Thursday, December 9, 2010
A Southern Feature
It is ironic, I suppose, that we are still friends and all working together in Malawi. Funny how God has a way of working things out and leading us along the journey that we have called life. I am so grateful for Randy and Cristy both and how they are such an encouragement to me personally.
Saturday, December 4, 2010
Thankfulness
Much has been happening and I rarely seem to have time to update my blog. So here's some updates and photos:
ADRA Malawi contacted me about the bicycle ambulances that they are distributing around Malawi. They asked if the communities around the hospital would be in need of them. We discussed and requested 15 set ups for the area villages that Malamulo serves. They came back and said they would give 14!! We arranged to have the official "hand-over" with the Malawi Union SDA church meetings so the president of the church handed them over to the "Head Chief" of the area. It was an amazing gift and neither me or the head of ADRA were the focus but rather what the church is doing in the community. We were merely facilitating and that was so wonderful! Now the communities around Malamulo that can't get vehicle access have a way to get patients to the hospital easier.
About 3 weeks ago Cristy and I went to Zomba Plateau to Plateau Stables to go horseback riding. Maggie and Brian run the place and are lovely people and we have ridden there several times. It was a beautiful day and we were so excited to be out in nature. We got suited up and I was riding "Duchess" who loves to gallop especially following another horse. You can guess - we were going at a good gallop, my horse closely following Cristy (thus you can't stop) and I began to feel a bit out of control in my English saddle. Suddenly the horse took a sharp turn on a trail to the left and I took a sharp turn to the right and landed HARD on my right hip. Thankfully I had a helmet and landed on pine needles so only had some deep bruises and scrapes. Needless to say my riding was cut short! I got back on and we rode back to the stable but I couldn't go much further.
Maggie was so sweet and offered for us to come to to their house so I could take a hot bath and drink some tea. While in the bath they decided that Cristy and I really shouldn't camp as we had planned but rather stay in their guest room and rest in their house. So instead of riding I got to rest, read, walk around their garden and take photos. It ended up being a lovely weekend (Cristy went riding again the next day) and we have made even better friends with Maggie and Brian. Bella also got to know their great dane/rhodesian ridgeback mix dog in hopes to eventually have puppies! Here are a few photos of the house and flowers.Thought I'd spare you the bruises and scrapes. :-|
Thanksgiving was a lovely feast as was last year. We had about 40 people get together at Dave & Susan Woods' house in Blantyre. There was lots of food and good time with friends. This year we actually thought if EVERYONE was invited (American or not) there would be way too many people so we just tried to invite the Americans and a few others and still ended up with a houseful. We have many volunteers here now and also some additional families of Ryan & Sharlene Hayton, Randy & Nicole and all of their kids. Before eating Ryan gave us a 5 minute history lesson of what Thanksgiving is and where is started. After lunch Jacquie (Peds NP) pulled out her colorful paper, blow up balloons, and kept the kiddos entertained making turkeys, indian headbands, and balloon animals.
After making stuffing, finishing making the soup, and all the craziness of my long week I enjoyed sitting down and putting my feet up after stuffing myself! Sharlene's apple cranberry crisp was a hit as well as Drew's pumpkin cream cheese pie (and even better the next day).
Friday after Thanksgiving I was busy wrapping things up in the office and packing to leave Sabbath morning. Earlier that week we had 2 days of board meetings and the week before was meetings all week for the church. Needless to say I was exhausted and found it difficult to even find the energy to be excited to go home. (Some of that might have had to do with the people I was leaving behind in Malawi as well!) I have so much to be thankful for this year - especially for the life I've been given since last year's Thanksgiving. There have been many hard days, many happy days, tears, laughter, and for all of it I'm VERY grateful!
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| The MU President is far left in suit - others are area Chiefs |
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| Official handshake |
About 3 weeks ago Cristy and I went to Zomba Plateau to Plateau Stables to go horseback riding. Maggie and Brian run the place and are lovely people and we have ridden there several times. It was a beautiful day and we were so excited to be out in nature. We got suited up and I was riding "Duchess" who loves to gallop especially following another horse. You can guess - we were going at a good gallop, my horse closely following Cristy (thus you can't stop) and I began to feel a bit out of control in my English saddle. Suddenly the horse took a sharp turn on a trail to the left and I took a sharp turn to the right and landed HARD on my right hip. Thankfully I had a helmet and landed on pine needles so only had some deep bruises and scrapes. Needless to say my riding was cut short! I got back on and we rode back to the stable but I couldn't go much further.
Maggie was so sweet and offered for us to come to to their house so I could take a hot bath and drink some tea. While in the bath they decided that Cristy and I really shouldn't camp as we had planned but rather stay in their guest room and rest in their house. So instead of riding I got to rest, read, walk around their garden and take photos. It ended up being a lovely weekend (Cristy went riding again the next day) and we have made even better friends with Maggie and Brian. Bella also got to know their great dane/rhodesian ridgeback mix dog in hopes to eventually have puppies! Here are a few photos of the house and flowers.Thought I'd spare you the bruises and scrapes. :-|
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| hibiscus |
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| The house - our room was the door at the bottom. Butch and Bella in the foreground. |
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| View from the yard - spent some time on the bench. |
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| bougainvillea |
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| amaryllis |
Thanksgiving was a lovely feast as was last year. We had about 40 people get together at Dave & Susan Woods' house in Blantyre. There was lots of food and good time with friends. This year we actually thought if EVERYONE was invited (American or not) there would be way too many people so we just tried to invite the Americans and a few others and still ended up with a houseful. We have many volunteers here now and also some additional families of Ryan & Sharlene Hayton, Randy & Nicole and all of their kids. Before eating Ryan gave us a 5 minute history lesson of what Thanksgiving is and where is started. After lunch Jacquie (Peds NP) pulled out her colorful paper, blow up balloons, and kept the kiddos entertained making turkeys, indian headbands, and balloon animals.
After making stuffing, finishing making the soup, and all the craziness of my long week I enjoyed sitting down and putting my feet up after stuffing myself! Sharlene's apple cranberry crisp was a hit as well as Drew's pumpkin cream cheese pie (and even better the next day).
Friday after Thanksgiving I was busy wrapping things up in the office and packing to leave Sabbath morning. Earlier that week we had 2 days of board meetings and the week before was meetings all week for the church. Needless to say I was exhausted and found it difficult to even find the energy to be excited to go home. (Some of that might have had to do with the people I was leaving behind in Malawi as well!) I have so much to be thankful for this year - especially for the life I've been given since last year's Thanksgiving. There have been many hard days, many happy days, tears, laughter, and for all of it I'm VERY grateful!
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
Post from Alex
A volunteer named Alex Roddy was here for about 7 weeks and then has moved on to Ethiopia and Rwanda. He is a recent graduate of Walla Walla University with an engineering degree. We certainly enjoyed having him here and he was MOST helpful! I thought you might enjoy his perspectives on life here -- See his blog: HERE
Monday, November 1, 2010
Projects Galore!!
So there is so much to be done here at Malamulo and I am thankful to have some help now!! Ryan and Sharlene Hayton arrived one month ago with their two boys. Ryan is the Surgeon for Malamulo and already hard at work. He has set up an organization to work on projects here at Malamulo and today just announced his first project. See his website here for more information: www.MalawiMedicalMissions.org Especially if you have a burden for medical work - this project will be to renovate the operating rooms with equipment which is much needed!
Also Randy and Nicole arrived about 10 days ago and are settling in. Randy has started working on a few projects and is excited about the variety of things going on. With the help of some community members there are plans for a football (soccer) and netball tournament in Blantyre to raise money for a hospital project. Also we are developing plans to put up a permanent structure for a Nutritional Rehabilitation Center, Staff housing, and other projects around campus. I am so thankful for his help - already!
It is so nice to have family here too! I sometimes forget they are here then I see one of my nephews and get a hug or an excited greeting and it makes my day! It is so important to be loved and have people around that care for you - I guess I forget that sometimes! They all seem to be settling in ok but the days with no electricity are hard (like today).
My work challenges me every day. I can't even explain all of the issues that arise every day here - it would be exhausting just to write them. Today when I woke up I knew I was facing a difficult meeting first thing and I picked up my Bible to find some encouragement. Isa. 33:6 popped out at me and has been my theme today: "In that day he will be your sure foundation, providing a rich store of salvation, wisdom, and knowledge.The fear of the Lord will be your treasure." What an amazing promise!
This past weekend was fun with Drew (from Mozambique) in town for a few days. He and some other friends from Blantyre came out on Sabbath and a big group of us went to Mt. Mulanje to the waterfalls. It was a hot day so good for swimming, we brought a picnic and just enjoyed the day. So nice to relax and hang out with friends too. Also fun to be there with my nephews and have them experience Malawi for the first time. These outings are bright spots in my months - I am so thankful for them and all of the people around to share them with.
Electricity has been out all day today... guess i better get home and light some candles. Thank you for your prayers. I'll try to write again soon.
It is so nice to have family here too! I sometimes forget they are here then I see one of my nephews and get a hug or an excited greeting and it makes my day! It is so important to be loved and have people around that care for you - I guess I forget that sometimes! They all seem to be settling in ok but the days with no electricity are hard (like today).
My work challenges me every day. I can't even explain all of the issues that arise every day here - it would be exhausting just to write them. Today when I woke up I knew I was facing a difficult meeting first thing and I picked up my Bible to find some encouragement. Isa. 33:6 popped out at me and has been my theme today: "In that day he will be your sure foundation, providing a rich store of salvation, wisdom, and knowledge.The fear of the Lord will be your treasure." What an amazing promise!
This past weekend was fun with Drew (from Mozambique) in town for a few days. He and some other friends from Blantyre came out on Sabbath and a big group of us went to Mt. Mulanje to the waterfalls. It was a hot day so good for swimming, we brought a picnic and just enjoyed the day. So nice to relax and hang out with friends too. Also fun to be there with my nephews and have them experience Malawi for the first time. These outings are bright spots in my months - I am so thankful for them and all of the people around to share them with.
Electricity has been out all day today... guess i better get home and light some candles. Thank you for your prayers. I'll try to write again soon.
Monday, September 20, 2010
Stress??
"No, I'm not stressed. My eyes are always this wide open. This look of frazzelment is my normal style." Yep that's how I feel these days. I am so glad to have Cristy back home - friend, co-worker, counselor, encourager, and general good advice giver - we make a pretty good pair. :) She had a good time at home with family events (sister's wedding) and a trip to Portland to the Maranatha Convention. She also promptly fell in LOVE with Powell's Books (and who wouldn't?). I think the Northwest has a new appeal to her now.
Over the past week I've been preparing for an Executive Board meeting for the four AHI institutions. Thankfully the Executive Secretary of the Union has been organizing the people but I've had to organize the agenda items for Malamulo and review some for the other facilities. I found out today I have to attend all 4 separate meetings over the next two days. UGH!!
Just a week ago the shipment from Loma Linda arrived. 40' of equipment and supplies for Malamulo Hospital, Blantyre Hospital, the college and YES some Big Franks for me! That made my day! All week we've been rummaging through the boxes to find the things they've sent and get them into use as soon as possible. Some of the things are for the new ICU that is under construction at BAH. This is a container of promised supplies and equipment that we've waited for about 1.5 years for! I guess miracles still happen!
Wednesday three gentlemen who work in the IT department at Loma Linda University are arriving to set up a 20 computer lab for Malamulo College and a computer network for the hospital. We will potentially have a computer at each ward for patient billing that will be on a software that incorporates inventory. They are also bringing time clock machines (that use fingerprints) to keep electronic records of time and attendance. All of the above items are SHOCKING the system of the employees of the hospital. I think we need to back-pedal and first teach people how to USE computer!!
Next week Dr. Hayton and family arrive. Before he arrives we have to repair some things in the kitchen of his house and make sure there is enough furniture for their needs until their contianer arrives. About 3 weeks after that Randy & Nicole and family arrive. In between we have to find housing for two single guys. We are in the process of renovating the guest house to add two more rooms out of unused space - hope to be done in about a month.
Before the end of the year we expect three more single volunteers (we have two so far). We are SO THANKFUL for the volunteers - but are struggling for houses. The big plan is to raise money to build some small houses and duplexes but until that money is raised... we are stuck!
So yea - I'm not really stressed - just wide awake. On the way to work this morning my friend said something this morning about me going off to "run a hospital", I said "no, I'm just going to check my email". that's really how it is - one issue/day at a time. So in order to manage them I must head to bed.
Thanks for the prayers for sanity - they are needed more than ever these days!
Over the past week I've been preparing for an Executive Board meeting for the four AHI institutions. Thankfully the Executive Secretary of the Union has been organizing the people but I've had to organize the agenda items for Malamulo and review some for the other facilities. I found out today I have to attend all 4 separate meetings over the next two days. UGH!!
Just a week ago the shipment from Loma Linda arrived. 40' of equipment and supplies for Malamulo Hospital, Blantyre Hospital, the college and YES some Big Franks for me! That made my day! All week we've been rummaging through the boxes to find the things they've sent and get them into use as soon as possible. Some of the things are for the new ICU that is under construction at BAH. This is a container of promised supplies and equipment that we've waited for about 1.5 years for! I guess miracles still happen!
Wednesday three gentlemen who work in the IT department at Loma Linda University are arriving to set up a 20 computer lab for Malamulo College and a computer network for the hospital. We will potentially have a computer at each ward for patient billing that will be on a software that incorporates inventory. They are also bringing time clock machines (that use fingerprints) to keep electronic records of time and attendance. All of the above items are SHOCKING the system of the employees of the hospital. I think we need to back-pedal and first teach people how to USE computer!!
Next week Dr. Hayton and family arrive. Before he arrives we have to repair some things in the kitchen of his house and make sure there is enough furniture for their needs until their contianer arrives. About 3 weeks after that Randy & Nicole and family arrive. In between we have to find housing for two single guys. We are in the process of renovating the guest house to add two more rooms out of unused space - hope to be done in about a month.
Before the end of the year we expect three more single volunteers (we have two so far). We are SO THANKFUL for the volunteers - but are struggling for houses. The big plan is to raise money to build some small houses and duplexes but until that money is raised... we are stuck!
So yea - I'm not really stressed - just wide awake. On the way to work this morning my friend said something this morning about me going off to "run a hospital", I said "no, I'm just going to check my email". that's really how it is - one issue/day at a time. So in order to manage them I must head to bed.
Thanks for the prayers for sanity - they are needed more than ever these days!
Saturday, September 4, 2010
Malawi Medical Missions
Ryan and Sharlene Hayton are arriving at Malamulo September 29 and will be the new surgeon here at the hospital. They have set up a 501(c)3 and website with information on their work here. Follow along at http://www.malawimedicalmissions.org/
We have something close to "fruit basket upset" here at Malamulo with people coming and going.We are thankful though for the blessing of people willing to serve and make a difference! Keep checking back for more updates!
This week I am headed to Bloemfontein, South Africa for meetings with the General Conference and the World Health Organization. Part of their global health initiatives is related to maternal mortality rates (MMR). Malawi has one of the highest MMR in the world so there is potential for the WHO to partner with a teaching organization in Malawi. Please pray for the meetings and for guidance as to how and where this potential partnership could go. This is a huge opportunity for the SDA church as the WHO has never partnered with a faith based organization.
We have something close to "fruit basket upset" here at Malamulo with people coming and going.We are thankful though for the blessing of people willing to serve and make a difference! Keep checking back for more updates!
This week I am headed to Bloemfontein, South Africa for meetings with the General Conference and the World Health Organization. Part of their global health initiatives is related to maternal mortality rates (MMR). Malawi has one of the highest MMR in the world so there is potential for the WHO to partner with a teaching organization in Malawi. Please pray for the meetings and for guidance as to how and where this potential partnership could go. This is a huge opportunity for the SDA church as the WHO has never partnered with a faith based organization.
Tuesday, August 31, 2010
The Brown Saga
You can follow the progress of Randy & Nicole (my brother and family) on their blog: www.thebrownsaga.blogspot.com! Exciting times are ahead! Thankful for your prayers and support as well!
Monday, August 23, 2010
Catching Up
So much has happened in the last 2 months I’m afraid this might be a News Update rather than many reflections. My trip to the US was good – uneventful except for seeing LOTS of good friends, being overwhelmed by the crowds in Atlanta, and making some new and good connections. It was especially nice to see Cristy’s family and participate in the “Big Surprise” on the first Sabbath (if you missed it you can watch here). Cristy flew in just for a week and surprised her parents on the main stage on Sabbath afternoon! It was much anticipated and after all of the arrangements I felt like we were part of a top secret operation! The point was to make an impact on the role that family plays for those who are serving as missionaries and to make an impression for missions to those who saw it. Also to generate interest in opportunities out there for those who might be interested. Everything turned out perfectly and her parents had no idea! Unfortunately her trip was too short and she had to leave Monday night to head back to Malawi.
After the 12 days in Atlanta I flew out to Portland and spent 4th of July with my family. Oregon had a weird summer so we watched the fireworks huddled under blankets for the first time I can remember. They were spectacular though and we had fun that week – a day at the beach, shopping, connecting with friends, and trying to fit in a bit of rest. Everything was a little crazy because Randy and Nicole were also preparing to fly to Malawi – leaving the same day I did -- to visit me here! We flew different routes and airlines but arrived in Lilongwe about 20 minutes apart! It was such a blessing to be able to have family here to see what my life is like and to share things with. I didn’t realize how much it would mean to me until they were here.
Unfortunately Randy was sick for the first couple of days but by Sabbath he was feeling good and we hiked up to the waterfalls at Mt. Mulanje. It was my birthday too and about 15 people met out at Mulanje for a picnic – it was so special! On Monday we headed up to Liwonde National Park where we saw lots of animals. The highlight was when we spotted a few elephants along the road. We slowed down and the big male decided to cross the road in front of the car. He was about 20 feet in front of the car and turned and trumpeted at us!!! We all were so excited we didn’t know what to do. I told Randy to put the car in reverse in case we needed to make a quick escape! Lots of birds, antelope, wart hogs, more elephant, and crocodiles were spotted. We managed to see both a sunset and sunrise in the park and enjoyed a morning boat safari! Then it was off to Lake Malawi where we stayed in the “Banana House” on Cape MacLear where Randy went scuba diving and Nicole and I snorkeled. We were in a little thatch house on a private beach – it was spectacular and relaxing.
Their visit was too short – as expected. BUT that is where the exciting news comes in. After getting home they were called by Dr. Hart (president of LLU and AHI) asking if they might be interested in COMING BACK to Malamulo! He was asking Randy to consider working as an administrator for the Malamulo College of Health Sciences. After long discussions, praying, soul-searching, emails, and more praying they have accepted the call and are moving to Malawi!!!!!
Now I can hardly believe my own fingers and that what I’m typing is actually true! We’ve always talked about living in the same neighborhood but I honestly never thought that would mean Africa! Randy will work on his master’s degree online and work at the college. I am really excited but also a little nervous for the transition to be smooth for everyone. I believe that God will give them the strength and so many things have come together that it seems like God is calling them in this direction. It won’t be easy though so we covet your prayers!
And since we are talking of transitions – Don & Gail Schatszchneider are transitioning home this week. They have been here off and on for three years and are ready to be home. They are both retired missionaries and in their 70’s. I have been asked to be interim CEO until AHI finds someone. I strongly feel that I’m not the right person for this position long-term so please join me in praying for a replacement.
Currently Cristy is home for vacation so that leaves me sort of alone to keep things afloat here. It is a big task and I constantly remind myself to go one day at a time. We have three volunteers coming in the next month and a new surgeon and his family arriving the end of September. In all we will have 7 kids under the age of 8 here which will be nice for the families!
God continues to bless in many ways here at Malamulo. It is not without challenges both personal and on an organizational level. I’m thankful for his faithfulness that is evident in so many ways!
One of the exciting parts of the GC was participating in the “Impact Atlanta” meetings and service opportunities. One of the days we were part of a press conference and collect signatures in the park for the “EndItNow” Campaign. This was especially meaningful to me because of the work that I put into an awareness day here in Malawi. I was also able to hand deliver the 349 signatures from Malawi to Charles Sandefur, President of ADRA. By the end of the GC I think they were close to 500,000 signatures!
Although I really wanted to participate in all of the “impactAtlanta” events I wasn’t able to. I felt torn between being at the Loma Linda booth talking about Malamulo and AHI, volunteering and being involved in the young adult meetings/service, but also just found myself extraordinarily WEARY. It was a strange experience since I’m always #1 to volunteer for everything and to be at the center of these events but I felt like I was on a different planet and somehow didn’t have the energy and ability to invest in that. My friend, Allan, who organized everything was super understanding (for which I really thank him) but I still don’t understand all of the reasons.
After the 12 days in Atlanta I flew out to Portland and spent 4th of July with my family. Oregon had a weird summer so we watched the fireworks huddled under blankets for the first time I can remember. They were spectacular though and we had fun that week – a day at the beach, shopping, connecting with friends, and trying to fit in a bit of rest. Everything was a little crazy because Randy and Nicole were also preparing to fly to Malawi – leaving the same day I did -- to visit me here! We flew different routes and airlines but arrived in Lilongwe about 20 minutes apart! It was such a blessing to be able to have family here to see what my life is like and to share things with. I didn’t realize how much it would mean to me until they were here. |
| Trumpeting Elephant!! |
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| Sisters in Blue |
Their visit was too short – as expected. BUT that is where the exciting news comes in. After getting home they were called by Dr. Hart (president of LLU and AHI) asking if they might be interested in COMING BACK to Malamulo! He was asking Randy to consider working as an administrator for the Malamulo College of Health Sciences. After long discussions, praying, soul-searching, emails, and more praying they have accepted the call and are moving to Malawi!!!!!
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| Sunset at Cape MacClear |
Also if anyone is willing to help financially with this big transition that would be much appreciated! AHI is helping but they rely on donations. Also this is a short notice decision so the preparations are being made quickly without a chance to save money etc. They didn’t ask me to ask for money – but I’m just putting it out there for those who have an interest in mission and specifically education.
And since we are talking of transitions – Don & Gail Schatszchneider are transitioning home this week. They have been here off and on for three years and are ready to be home. They are both retired missionaries and in their 70’s. I have been asked to be interim CEO until AHI finds someone. I strongly feel that I’m not the right person for this position long-term so please join me in praying for a replacement.
Currently Cristy is home for vacation so that leaves me sort of alone to keep things afloat here. It is a big task and I constantly remind myself to go one day at a time. We have three volunteers coming in the next month and a new surgeon and his family arriving the end of September. In all we will have 7 kids under the age of 8 here which will be nice for the families!
God continues to bless in many ways here at Malamulo. It is not without challenges both personal and on an organizational level. I’m thankful for his faithfulness that is evident in so many ways!
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
22nd Floor
Modern travel is abrupt. It doesn't matter to me that it takes 30+ hours to travel from one side of the world to the other (which is A LONG TIME in one seat) but it is still sudden! Just a day or two ago I was on the other side of the world in a poor, developing country where people struggle to have enough food to feed their families this week or even for lunch. There are no 6 or 8 lane roads, the stop lights don't work, customer service is non-existent, and so many other things are different - I can't even list them all.
And yet living in that setting I feel close to the earth - i see people every day working in their garden, selling vegetables, sweeping the yard, drawing water, carrying bundles of wood or grass, laundry drying in the wind - the earth and it's gifts are close and visible. Even the house I live in is made from clay bricks made from the surrounding soil, fired with trees that grew in the distant past from the ground nearby. Being this close to the earth means that I am usually dirty - somehow. Mostly it's my feet which I admit that since I rarely wear socks and shoes (they are in sandals or flip flops) and covered with dust or dirt. (I like to imagine that I keep the rest of myself relatively clean :) ).
SUDDENLY I got in a plane and sat for a while and now I find myself 22 stories from the ground... Up here it's clean (and I LOVE that!!) yet I also feel the distinct separation from the earth. I can go to a number of restaurants within walking distance and get food within 5 minutes (and that is AMAZING) but not even the one who sold it to me knows where it was grown or looked in the eyes of the lady who grew it. I'm on the 22nd floor. My windows don't open and I can't feel the breeze or even know what the temperature is like outside - it is controlled with a little white box on my hotel wall.
I don't have to stay up here though - I realize that - and living in the Hilton is not "normal" life. The contrast is so stark that I couldn't help reflect on the separation and reconcile myself in some way to this sudden change; to suddenly finding myself on the 22nd floor.
Friday, May 21, 2010
awareness
So how do you bring awareness to an issue? How do you provide education about social change? Well I'm certain that changing practices and social "norms" doesn't happen right away but I was part of a small step towards change this last Sunday. There is an initiative called enditnow started by the General Conference of SDA's women's Minisistries and ADRA (Adventist Development & Relief Agency) to bring awareness and sign a petition related to violence against women and girls. The petition is planned to go to the Secretary General of the UN with 1 million signatures basically saying that we as Adventists take a stand on this issue and are saying it has to end!
I really feel a passion about this issue and can see a huge need for awareness and education in Malawi - especially the rural areas like Malamulo. Also on this campus is a college with 400+ students and a high school with around 400 teenagers - what better place to do teaching and bring awareness to the issues. So I got a few people together from each institution on campus and we started planning and talking about what we could do here. As is typical in Malawi an "awareness day" idea popped up. This means plan an event, invite the dignitaries of the district, government, and church to have speeches, dramas, music, and poems.
We also spent some time talking about "what is violence?" and what can we do about it locally. What about after the event, then what resources can we provide?
Unfortunately this is a huge problem all over the world - not just Malawi or developing countries. I've heard of everything from verbal abuse (shouting) to recently one of the driver's for the hospital's daughter was violently murdered by her husband. This isn't just outside the church either. If you go to the website www.enditnow.org there are stats of studies that were done within Christianity showing it is the same prevalence as outside the church.
So our awareness day went off without a hitch on Sunday (except for starting at 2:45pm rather than 2:00). The rain stayed away, we had about 500 people (with lots of young people), dignitaries and many invited guests. A lot of people had good things to say and were supportive! I couldn't have done it without the people who helped me on the committee, though. I am happy that our district pastor was involved and helping with the plans and has made it a point to incorporate these issues into sermons and his church leadership.
I would encourage you to visit the website www.enditnow.org, sign the petition and plan some kind of education or awareness day in your town. Abuse is a problem - I've seen it first hand - and it has to come to an end!
I really feel a passion about this issue and can see a huge need for awareness and education in Malawi - especially the rural areas like Malamulo. Also on this campus is a college with 400+ students and a high school with around 400 teenagers - what better place to do teaching and bring awareness to the issues. So I got a few people together from each institution on campus and we started planning and talking about what we could do here. As is typical in Malawi an "awareness day" idea popped up. This means plan an event, invite the dignitaries of the district, government, and church to have speeches, dramas, music, and poems.
We also spent some time talking about "what is violence?" and what can we do about it locally. What about after the event, then what resources can we provide?
Unfortunately this is a huge problem all over the world - not just Malawi or developing countries. I've heard of everything from verbal abuse (shouting) to recently one of the driver's for the hospital's daughter was violently murdered by her husband. This isn't just outside the church either. If you go to the website www.enditnow.org there are stats of studies that were done within Christianity showing it is the same prevalence as outside the church.
So our awareness day went off without a hitch on Sunday (except for starting at 2:45pm rather than 2:00). The rain stayed away, we had about 500 people (with lots of young people), dignitaries and many invited guests. A lot of people had good things to say and were supportive! I couldn't have done it without the people who helped me on the committee, though. I am happy that our district pastor was involved and helping with the plans and has made it a point to incorporate these issues into sermons and his church leadership.
Thursday, April 29, 2010
I Wonder What Will Happen Today?
I hesitate to hear the answer to this question this week. It seems like every day there is more in the dramas of the operations of this mission hospital. The past two weeks it has been a financial crisis. Our accountant came to me with a stack of purchase requests to sign for needed medicine and medical supplies. I knew it was a lot and when I saw the summary of outstanding purchase requests my heart stopped at the 3,600,000 Kwacha number and realizing we have NO MONEY in our checking account! Those requests went back on the accountant's desk to wait until we could scrape some money together. Each day though - something has happened and somehow we are scraping by.
Day 1: We HAVE to place an order on a certain day with CHAM (where we get good prices on medicines) so that they can deliver them to Blantyre rather than us driving all the way to Lilongwe. Our order this month was around 750,000 MK. We had only about 100,000 MK collected from two days of business at the hospital. Don happened to be in Blantyre and I asked him to stop by Blantyre Adventist Hospital and pick up the check for 560,000 MK that they give us every month as charity assistance. That along with a little more scraped together was enough to cover the order and it was placed and picked up 1-2 days later.
Day 2: We are owed over 7 million kwacha by the government for services given to people in the local area around the hospital (this is close to $50,000 USD). They have promised payment by the 15-18th of each month. It was past the 20th and we still had no payment. Every day we call to see if the check is ready and they tell us to wait until the next day or day after. I'm starting to have visions of not making payroll, completely out of meds, and not being able to function. Today we had to use cash to buy fuel for the car that goes to Limbe because there is not enough money in the checking account to write a check.
Day 3: Administrative Council today - we had a good meeting - there are lots of good things happening and some progress being made towards installing a V-SAT for satellite internet! (YAY!!) We also have Maranatha visiting next week wanting to come with a large group to do some work in 2011 so the potential for great things - and most of this done with donations. At the end of this uplifting meeting I had to give an update about the state of our finances and how we are really scraping bottom!! Not only do we have about 3 million of purchases to buy this month but we also owe about 2 million for insurance as well as other creditors that I don't even want to list. We ended the meeting with earnest prayer for this situation but I still felt like "Debbie-Downer" and also felt emotionally affected by the pressure.
Day 4: Amongst the other days we've been dealing with a 40' container of supplies delivered from the US. It has been a disaster from the beginning since the shipping company in Tanzania sent a driver who knows no English or Chichewa, had never been to Malawi before, and didn't follow the customs requirements! Inside the container are much needed medicines and supplies that we haven't been able to purchase but we can't open the container to unload until it is cleared. Today Don went to Blantyre to sign the papers and clear it without having to pay any duty (Thank You, Lord!).
Today I called the government hospital again to check on the payment that they've promised. After telling the accountant that we are reaching an emergency state and may have to end the agreement and close the hospital he still said we couldn't get the check until "tomorrow". When I asked him how much it would be he got angry. I explained we need to know for planning purposes and he then told me "You'll get the check tomorrow, whether it's one cent or a million kwacha you'll get it tomorrow!!!" and then hung up on me! I called the Doctor in charge of the district and discussed how his accountant acted as well as our concerns about their delay and lack of payment. It seems we should be collecting the check tomorrow.
Day 5 Today's the day that we are supposed to get the check from the government and a large amount from the big insurance payor in Malawi. Salaries are due this week as well. I feel snowed under by all of these things and have even delayed meetings and other things until we can buy enough paper to make photo copies. The priority is the medicine and supplies to keep the hospital running. The other things will come eventually.
This is my week... I appreciate your prayers and I know there are many who are already praying and claiming promises in response to these situations. I do think these are just some roadblocks and the general progress of the hospital is still in a positive direction. We also need wisdom to make good decisions with the resources that we DO have. The promise that says "He will supply all of your needs according to his riches in glory" is an encouraging statement right now and I believe it is true...
Day 1: We HAVE to place an order on a certain day with CHAM (where we get good prices on medicines) so that they can deliver them to Blantyre rather than us driving all the way to Lilongwe. Our order this month was around 750,000 MK. We had only about 100,000 MK collected from two days of business at the hospital. Don happened to be in Blantyre and I asked him to stop by Blantyre Adventist Hospital and pick up the check for 560,000 MK that they give us every month as charity assistance. That along with a little more scraped together was enough to cover the order and it was placed and picked up 1-2 days later.
Day 2: We are owed over 7 million kwacha by the government for services given to people in the local area around the hospital (this is close to $50,000 USD). They have promised payment by the 15-18th of each month. It was past the 20th and we still had no payment. Every day we call to see if the check is ready and they tell us to wait until the next day or day after. I'm starting to have visions of not making payroll, completely out of meds, and not being able to function. Today we had to use cash to buy fuel for the car that goes to Limbe because there is not enough money in the checking account to write a check.
Day 3: Administrative Council today - we had a good meeting - there are lots of good things happening and some progress being made towards installing a V-SAT for satellite internet! (YAY!!) We also have Maranatha visiting next week wanting to come with a large group to do some work in 2011 so the potential for great things - and most of this done with donations. At the end of this uplifting meeting I had to give an update about the state of our finances and how we are really scraping bottom!! Not only do we have about 3 million of purchases to buy this month but we also owe about 2 million for insurance as well as other creditors that I don't even want to list. We ended the meeting with earnest prayer for this situation but I still felt like "Debbie-Downer" and also felt emotionally affected by the pressure.
Day 4: Amongst the other days we've been dealing with a 40' container of supplies delivered from the US. It has been a disaster from the beginning since the shipping company in Tanzania sent a driver who knows no English or Chichewa, had never been to Malawi before, and didn't follow the customs requirements! Inside the container are much needed medicines and supplies that we haven't been able to purchase but we can't open the container to unload until it is cleared. Today Don went to Blantyre to sign the papers and clear it without having to pay any duty (Thank You, Lord!).
Today I called the government hospital again to check on the payment that they've promised. After telling the accountant that we are reaching an emergency state and may have to end the agreement and close the hospital he still said we couldn't get the check until "tomorrow". When I asked him how much it would be he got angry. I explained we need to know for planning purposes and he then told me "You'll get the check tomorrow, whether it's one cent or a million kwacha you'll get it tomorrow!!!" and then hung up on me! I called the Doctor in charge of the district and discussed how his accountant acted as well as our concerns about their delay and lack of payment. It seems we should be collecting the check tomorrow.
Day 5 Today's the day that we are supposed to get the check from the government and a large amount from the big insurance payor in Malawi. Salaries are due this week as well. I feel snowed under by all of these things and have even delayed meetings and other things until we can buy enough paper to make photo copies. The priority is the medicine and supplies to keep the hospital running. The other things will come eventually.
This is my week... I appreciate your prayers and I know there are many who are already praying and claiming promises in response to these situations. I do think these are just some roadblocks and the general progress of the hospital is still in a positive direction. We also need wisdom to make good decisions with the resources that we DO have. The promise that says "He will supply all of your needs according to his riches in glory" is an encouraging statement right now and I believe it is true...
Sunday, April 18, 2010
Normal Life
1st some photos - this is from our trip to Victoria Falls - Blanca, Lety, Cristy, Fernando, Elisa, & Anthony
The photo above is Mt Mulanje of my last post and a rainbow. It is beautiful!
I’ve been chastising myself for not posting more often so I think I’ll write something and try to be brief. I’m in Blantyre for a couple of days (thus some decent internet) and am enjoying a much needed break from things at Malamulo. I worked Sunday-Friday so was so thankful for Sabbath and a chance to just relax.
Today Cristy and I with a few others went down to Nyala Park in the Shire River Valley. It is a small-ish game park that we’ve been to many times. The three who came with us hadn’t seen any “big” animals in Africa yet so it was fun to experience the giraffe, zebra, nyala, impala, wildebeest and various birds and scenery with them again.
I recently picked up a book that I have been reading off and on since 2006. It is Dallas Willard’s “Divine Conspiracy”. It is excellent regarding the Sermon on the Mount (or “discourse on a hillside”) although I find Willard a little heavy to read. I guess that is why I’m still plowing through it and it’s been 3+ years! I enjoy it though and have been reading a little bit at a time. I’ve also just almost finished an epic novel about Australia that was a bestseller in the 70’s when it was written called “The Thorn Birds”. It is interesting to read about life in Australia – something I know nothing about. Since I finished that I just started a classic by Annie Dillard “Pilgrim At Tinker Creek”. It is in the same genre as Thoreau’s “Walden Pond”.
I have begun to think and pray about my future as my two year agreement is nearing completion (July). I don’t have any strong leadings or impressions as to where I should go – either staying in Malawi or going back to the US. But I also haven’t put my resume out anywhere in the US either. There are a lot of good things happening in Malawi – but I don’t know if I’m meant to stay and continue on. I would appreciate prayers for this.
For now, I’m enjoying all of the “comings and goings” of visitors, missionaries, and volunteers as spring seems to bring lots of different people around. I’m also looking forward to my trip to the GC in Atlanta in June. I’m close to be able to counting down the weeks and days.
Back to work this morning (Monday) with errands and people to see in Blantyre. We’ll attend choir practice tonight before heading back to Malamulo so it will be a long day. Blessings abound though and I’m grateful for many things – family, friends, health, and a beautiful place to live.
me in front of Vic Falls "the smoke that thunders"
I’ve been chastising myself for not posting more often so I think I’ll write something and try to be brief. I’m in Blantyre for a couple of days (thus some decent internet) and am enjoying a much needed break from things at Malamulo. I worked Sunday-Friday so was so thankful for Sabbath and a chance to just relax.
Today Cristy and I with a few others went down to Nyala Park in the Shire River Valley. It is a small-ish game park that we’ve been to many times. The three who came with us hadn’t seen any “big” animals in Africa yet so it was fun to experience the giraffe, zebra, nyala, impala, wildebeest and various birds and scenery with them again.
I recently picked up a book that I have been reading off and on since 2006. It is Dallas Willard’s “Divine Conspiracy”. It is excellent regarding the Sermon on the Mount (or “discourse on a hillside”) although I find Willard a little heavy to read. I guess that is why I’m still plowing through it and it’s been 3+ years! I enjoy it though and have been reading a little bit at a time. I’ve also just almost finished an epic novel about Australia that was a bestseller in the 70’s when it was written called “The Thorn Birds”. It is interesting to read about life in Australia – something I know nothing about. Since I finished that I just started a classic by Annie Dillard “Pilgrim At Tinker Creek”. It is in the same genre as Thoreau’s “Walden Pond”.
I have begun to think and pray about my future as my two year agreement is nearing completion (July). I don’t have any strong leadings or impressions as to where I should go – either staying in Malawi or going back to the US. But I also haven’t put my resume out anywhere in the US either. There are a lot of good things happening in Malawi – but I don’t know if I’m meant to stay and continue on. I would appreciate prayers for this.
For now, I’m enjoying all of the “comings and goings” of visitors, missionaries, and volunteers as spring seems to bring lots of different people around. I’m also looking forward to my trip to the GC in Atlanta in June. I’m close to be able to counting down the weeks and days.
Back to work this morning (Monday) with errands and people to see in Blantyre. We’ll attend choir practice tonight before heading back to Malamulo so it will be a long day. Blessings abound though and I’m grateful for many things – family, friends, health, and a beautiful place to live.
Friday, April 9, 2010
Sharing SHARE
Upon arrival in Malawi anyone will realize that the concept of “Customer Service” or “the customer is always right” is as unheard of as 12 lane highways, “high-speed” internet, and Taco Bell. The second realization if you come to work in a hospital in a management position is that there is GREAT NEED for training in this area. The third thing to come to mind is “where in the world can we start to teach this?” At this last point is where I have spent the last year or so. Not long after I came I contacted my former employer (Adventist Health System) and asked if they would let me use the customer service program that they use – designed for healthcare employees from an Adventist perspective. They graciously mailed me the training manual, the powerpoint presentation and some of the props and materials.
Every month or so I would look at the binder and flip through the slides and wonder how in the world to make this apply to Malawi and then give up being daunted by the task. Finally in October we decided in our strategic plan that customer service was a priority and my name was attached to the task. Now it was on paper which made me realize I cannot procrastinate very much longer. Finally in January I finished modifying the power point presentation to be what I thought would work here and what seemed like it would fit into 4 hours.
This week was it – the first session. The goal is that every employee will attend this training (200+ employees) and it will be two sessions, each two hours with 20-25 people each time. I talked to the matron, put up a sign to advertise and wondered if anyone would come. Wednesday and Thursday this week were the first sessions. About 20 people completed the four hours. They weren’t the nurses the matron had assigned but rather a mixture of people – so translation was needed which I did not account for in my preparation for a four hour class. Although I had to skip a bit of the points I was able to cover the topics as an overview and am hoping for opportunities to emphasize each point. So what did we cover?
Reputation – what is it? what kind of reputation do you want? what about the hospital?
Loyalty – what does this mean and what is the difference between loyalty and satisfaction?
What is customer service?
SHARE acronym – Sensing others needs before they ask, Helping each other out, Acknowledging people’s feelings, Respect the dignity and privacy of others, and Explain what is happening.
Body language
All of this sounds good but as we were going through the presentation I realized the slides and concepts I thought would work didn’t always make sense in this context. Also teaching in a setting where English is not the primary language caused challenges. How do you explain the statement, “patients judge their experience through their perception which is subjective not based on outcomes which is objective”. Those are big words and have to be explained and simplified or illustrated on the spot. I found it challenging to teach with a cross-section of the employees because about half of the people were the housekeeping staff and some don’t know how to read or write while the nurses and secretaries are quickly answering questions, taking notes, and filling in the worksheets while I’m not even sure some of the cleaners understood a word that I said. How do you teach to all levels?
Another interesting dilemma was talking about respecting the dignity and privacy of others. First when I asked what it meant they thought I was talking about respecting your elders which is one of the tenets of the culture. I said not exactly but more looking at how people are different yet treating them all the same. We looked as some pictures of different people and situations and illustrated how people felt differently about the photos and it is based on upbringing, etc. But how is Malawi diverse? It is completely different than the US – it is mostly a homogenous culture here but yet there are subtle differences in social standing, tribal differences, family values, religion, etc. I did approach the subject of how people are treated based on how they look. If someone is poor are they treated the same as someone who is rich? What about people from another country? or someone with white skin? I emphasized that white people should not be treated better than anyone else rather that everyone should be given the same excellent care. This was responded to with nervous laughter which means they knew that it is common to treat the “rich white person” differently. I wonder if they’ve heard a white person talk about this before? I think it’s important though and something that needs to be said and probably important for a white person to say it.
Then we talked about PRIVACY!! I recently had a discussion with Kelly about what is actually private here. The answer is basically the bedroom and the bathroom – that is it – not your kitchen, your yard, or the porch. So the concept of not talking about your neighbor who is admitted into the hospital is a foreign concept. Knowing your friends’ business is normal. What kind of privacy can we teach? So I used the illustration of HIV status which is still not talked about widely. This they understood but I didn’t know where else to go to teach about privacy because there isn’t much else that is culturally private. I realize I can’t change the culture and that is not my intent so the challenge is to adapt to what make sense here.
So the first class is over. I have some modifications to do to the presentation.
Also I have a better idea of some of the things that work and things that don’t. I hope the next class will go more smoothly and that overall our staff will begin to incorporate these ideas into their work. The goal is that Malamulo can be a preferred choice for patients to come for healthcare. That isn’t just sound clinical care but also good personal attention and customer service… Is it a “pie in the sky” kind of dream? Maybe, but I’ll work hard to do what I can to move towards that goal. As my good friend Phyllis always says, “hope springs eternal” and I continue to have hope that something I’m doing here will actually make an impact.
Every month or so I would look at the binder and flip through the slides and wonder how in the world to make this apply to Malawi and then give up being daunted by the task. Finally in October we decided in our strategic plan that customer service was a priority and my name was attached to the task. Now it was on paper which made me realize I cannot procrastinate very much longer. Finally in January I finished modifying the power point presentation to be what I thought would work here and what seemed like it would fit into 4 hours.
This week was it – the first session. The goal is that every employee will attend this training (200+ employees) and it will be two sessions, each two hours with 20-25 people each time. I talked to the matron, put up a sign to advertise and wondered if anyone would come. Wednesday and Thursday this week were the first sessions. About 20 people completed the four hours. They weren’t the nurses the matron had assigned but rather a mixture of people – so translation was needed which I did not account for in my preparation for a four hour class. Although I had to skip a bit of the points I was able to cover the topics as an overview and am hoping for opportunities to emphasize each point. So what did we cover?
Reputation – what is it? what kind of reputation do you want? what about the hospital?
Loyalty – what does this mean and what is the difference between loyalty and satisfaction?
What is customer service?
SHARE acronym – Sensing others needs before they ask, Helping each other out, Acknowledging people’s feelings, Respect the dignity and privacy of others, and Explain what is happening.
Body language
All of this sounds good but as we were going through the presentation I realized the slides and concepts I thought would work didn’t always make sense in this context. Also teaching in a setting where English is not the primary language caused challenges. How do you explain the statement, “patients judge their experience through their perception which is subjective not based on outcomes which is objective”. Those are big words and have to be explained and simplified or illustrated on the spot. I found it challenging to teach with a cross-section of the employees because about half of the people were the housekeeping staff and some don’t know how to read or write while the nurses and secretaries are quickly answering questions, taking notes, and filling in the worksheets while I’m not even sure some of the cleaners understood a word that I said. How do you teach to all levels?
Another interesting dilemma was talking about respecting the dignity and privacy of others. First when I asked what it meant they thought I was talking about respecting your elders which is one of the tenets of the culture. I said not exactly but more looking at how people are different yet treating them all the same. We looked as some pictures of different people and situations and illustrated how people felt differently about the photos and it is based on upbringing, etc. But how is Malawi diverse? It is completely different than the US – it is mostly a homogenous culture here but yet there are subtle differences in social standing, tribal differences, family values, religion, etc. I did approach the subject of how people are treated based on how they look. If someone is poor are they treated the same as someone who is rich? What about people from another country? or someone with white skin? I emphasized that white people should not be treated better than anyone else rather that everyone should be given the same excellent care. This was responded to with nervous laughter which means they knew that it is common to treat the “rich white person” differently. I wonder if they’ve heard a white person talk about this before? I think it’s important though and something that needs to be said and probably important for a white person to say it.
Then we talked about PRIVACY!! I recently had a discussion with Kelly about what is actually private here. The answer is basically the bedroom and the bathroom – that is it – not your kitchen, your yard, or the porch. So the concept of not talking about your neighbor who is admitted into the hospital is a foreign concept. Knowing your friends’ business is normal. What kind of privacy can we teach? So I used the illustration of HIV status which is still not talked about widely. This they understood but I didn’t know where else to go to teach about privacy because there isn’t much else that is culturally private. I realize I can’t change the culture and that is not my intent so the challenge is to adapt to what make sense here.
So the first class is over. I have some modifications to do to the presentation.
Also I have a better idea of some of the things that work and things that don’t. I hope the next class will go more smoothly and that overall our staff will begin to incorporate these ideas into their work. The goal is that Malamulo can be a preferred choice for patients to come for healthcare. That isn’t just sound clinical care but also good personal attention and customer service… Is it a “pie in the sky” kind of dream? Maybe, but I’ll work hard to do what I can to move towards that goal. As my good friend Phyllis always says, “hope springs eternal” and I continue to have hope that something I’m doing here will actually make an impact.
More Reflections
When I think about writing a blog post I always feel like I don’t have much to say. I guess since I’ve been living in Malawi now for 22 months there isn’t much that seems newsworthy. Yet when I take a step back and consider my “average day” from a distance I realize how blessed I am and can see the little things that make life enjoyable here. It also helps me remember why I am here and what my purpose is. So I wanted to just share some highlights from this past week – little things or big things that I have enjoyed or noticed and been challenged or blessed by…
Sabbath – drove to Mt. Mulanje with Cristy, Anthony, Ashwini, & Kelly. We met Ben there at the pizza place. Above our table there was a swallow’s nest with a mama swallow coming frequently to fill the giant yellow mouths. Cristy got a photo. We had ice cream with chocolate sauce! The mountain was beautiful as usual but this time with many trickling waterfalls down the face because of all of the rain. Anthony and I went hiking to a big waterfall with a pool and we jumped in the cool water – it was beautiful. As we left the sun was setting and it started to rain so on one side was the mountain hidden by a rain cloud with a rainbow arching over the top, the brilliant green of the tea fields was amazing contrasted with the gray clouds and the dark green of the mountain in the fading light. On the right side the sun was setting with gold, pink, and yellow. I didn’t know which way to look to absorb the breathtaking beauty surrounding us. Neither photos nor words do justice.
Monday – back at work with a busy day – catching up after “skipping” Sunday. In the afternoon I met a group from the USA with an organization “physicians for peace” traveling around Malawi looking for partnerships where they can send medical professionals to assist with training and teaching. I gave them a tour and talked with them about Malamulo and what we do and see here and what the needs are. Who knows what will come of it but we are always happy to have people visit and find ways to assist if possible. Wrapping up my day two officials from the SDA church came into my office to discuss some “concerns”. I seem to be an innocent by-stander in a disagreement so am just trying to be polite and answer the questions as best as I can. I won’t explain it all here but I just hope that the differences can be worked out. It is difficult to work here at times when it seems like the efforts to improve efficiency of processes is blocked by those who wish to be in control.
*skip a few days*
I’m back with some more time to write some reflections about my current work. Last weekend was Easter and I had another lovely day driving to Zomba. There is a plateau there and we drove up to a lodge about half way up. The view is beautiful – I can’t describe it. Anthony and I met Cristy and Kelly who were staying at a small lodge way off the road. It is in a beautiful location and we enjoyed the peace and quiet for a couple of hours. Then we drove up to the top of the mountain and had a late lunch before driving back to Blantyre and on to Makwasa.
I have to be honest reading what I’ve written sounds like every day is ideal and beautiful. This is NOT the case as is true with any job. The other day one of the senior lab technicians came into my office to tell me that the machine that does CBCs was not working and they had called the technician. When I asked him if regular servicing had been done he said, “No, it was supposed to be serviced at 10,000 tests and it is at 14,000 now”. He said this with a snicker. I have to say the lab is a constant challenge to us and once again I expressed my concern – in a strong way – that it is NOT ACCEPTABLE for them to ignore maintenance like this and that they are the only ones who know when these things need to be done. I told him that they need to take responsibility and come to administration with a quotation, deadline, and request for what is needed. They can’t just mention it and then give up. He said, “well I thought the head of the lab had taken care of it” and I explained that yes – maybe you thought that and he may have thought you were taking care of it but then NO ONE does anything. This is the problem, I explained, in that good communication does not happen so things are overlooked.
UGH!! Only 6 more weeks until we have a new couple from the Philippines coming to take over the lab and help turn it around. Cristy and I cannot wait for that to happen because over the past 2 years that Cristy has been here she has been unable to make much of a difference in the way the lab operates. It is like a walrus (as my friend referred to obstacles) in our path to good service here. Part of the challenge is the two senior lab techs are close to retirement and have worked their ENTIRE career here at Malamulo – almost 40 years! The saying “you can’t teach an old dog new tricks” is SO TRUE! They are both wonderful gentleman, but…
So today is Friday and I’m “off” of work. I am heading into Blantyre later. What does this mean? I plan to meet our dentist at 11am to look at a potential house for her to move to in Blantyre (nearer her office, her daughter’s school, and freeing up a house here on campus for us), then I have to take some paperwork to our clearing agent for two 40 ft. containers of medicines and supplies that are on their way to us (donations), then I will be able to go grocery shopping, eat some lunch, and probably post this blog on the internet. I might stop and see a friend or two but then will need to leave in time to stop at the big vegetable market on the way back out to Malamulo.
For the past month we’ve had a FP resident here from Pennsylvania who is Indian by origin. She has been cooking up wonderful Indian meals for us on Friday evenings so today is her last day here and she is planning to come and cook again. Last Friday we had 13 people here and the power was off all day! THANKFULLY we just purchased a gas stove and were able to hook it up in time to start cooking for the crowd. Tonight we won’t have as many people but we are looking forward to the evening with friends, good food, and welcoming the Sabbath. Thus the important stop at the vegetable market on the way home this afternoon!
Life here is never boring – for sure! The other day one of our nurses asked me if I was a Jew! I was confused at first and wondering if she was asking about my religion (sometimes people think I’m not SDA since I don’t attend church every week) so when I clarified she said, “no, there are so many races in America and I was wondering if you are Jewish”. Haha – I said no and explained that I’m a mix of German, English, and Danish. That satisfied her but as I said – it’s never dull and you can never be sure what question will come up next! Until next time…
Sabbath – drove to Mt. Mulanje with Cristy, Anthony, Ashwini, & Kelly. We met Ben there at the pizza place. Above our table there was a swallow’s nest with a mama swallow coming frequently to fill the giant yellow mouths. Cristy got a photo. We had ice cream with chocolate sauce! The mountain was beautiful as usual but this time with many trickling waterfalls down the face because of all of the rain. Anthony and I went hiking to a big waterfall with a pool and we jumped in the cool water – it was beautiful. As we left the sun was setting and it started to rain so on one side was the mountain hidden by a rain cloud with a rainbow arching over the top, the brilliant green of the tea fields was amazing contrasted with the gray clouds and the dark green of the mountain in the fading light. On the right side the sun was setting with gold, pink, and yellow. I didn’t know which way to look to absorb the breathtaking beauty surrounding us. Neither photos nor words do justice.
Monday – back at work with a busy day – catching up after “skipping” Sunday. In the afternoon I met a group from the USA with an organization “physicians for peace” traveling around Malawi looking for partnerships where they can send medical professionals to assist with training and teaching. I gave them a tour and talked with them about Malamulo and what we do and see here and what the needs are. Who knows what will come of it but we are always happy to have people visit and find ways to assist if possible. Wrapping up my day two officials from the SDA church came into my office to discuss some “concerns”. I seem to be an innocent by-stander in a disagreement so am just trying to be polite and answer the questions as best as I can. I won’t explain it all here but I just hope that the differences can be worked out. It is difficult to work here at times when it seems like the efforts to improve efficiency of processes is blocked by those who wish to be in control.
*skip a few days*
I’m back with some more time to write some reflections about my current work. Last weekend was Easter and I had another lovely day driving to Zomba. There is a plateau there and we drove up to a lodge about half way up. The view is beautiful – I can’t describe it. Anthony and I met Cristy and Kelly who were staying at a small lodge way off the road. It is in a beautiful location and we enjoyed the peace and quiet for a couple of hours. Then we drove up to the top of the mountain and had a late lunch before driving back to Blantyre and on to Makwasa.
I have to be honest reading what I’ve written sounds like every day is ideal and beautiful. This is NOT the case as is true with any job. The other day one of the senior lab technicians came into my office to tell me that the machine that does CBCs was not working and they had called the technician. When I asked him if regular servicing had been done he said, “No, it was supposed to be serviced at 10,000 tests and it is at 14,000 now”. He said this with a snicker. I have to say the lab is a constant challenge to us and once again I expressed my concern – in a strong way – that it is NOT ACCEPTABLE for them to ignore maintenance like this and that they are the only ones who know when these things need to be done. I told him that they need to take responsibility and come to administration with a quotation, deadline, and request for what is needed. They can’t just mention it and then give up. He said, “well I thought the head of the lab had taken care of it” and I explained that yes – maybe you thought that and he may have thought you were taking care of it but then NO ONE does anything. This is the problem, I explained, in that good communication does not happen so things are overlooked.
UGH!! Only 6 more weeks until we have a new couple from the Philippines coming to take over the lab and help turn it around. Cristy and I cannot wait for that to happen because over the past 2 years that Cristy has been here she has been unable to make much of a difference in the way the lab operates. It is like a walrus (as my friend referred to obstacles) in our path to good service here. Part of the challenge is the two senior lab techs are close to retirement and have worked their ENTIRE career here at Malamulo – almost 40 years! The saying “you can’t teach an old dog new tricks” is SO TRUE! They are both wonderful gentleman, but…
So today is Friday and I’m “off” of work. I am heading into Blantyre later. What does this mean? I plan to meet our dentist at 11am to look at a potential house for her to move to in Blantyre (nearer her office, her daughter’s school, and freeing up a house here on campus for us), then I have to take some paperwork to our clearing agent for two 40 ft. containers of medicines and supplies that are on their way to us (donations), then I will be able to go grocery shopping, eat some lunch, and probably post this blog on the internet. I might stop and see a friend or two but then will need to leave in time to stop at the big vegetable market on the way back out to Malamulo.
For the past month we’ve had a FP resident here from Pennsylvania who is Indian by origin. She has been cooking up wonderful Indian meals for us on Friday evenings so today is her last day here and she is planning to come and cook again. Last Friday we had 13 people here and the power was off all day! THANKFULLY we just purchased a gas stove and were able to hook it up in time to start cooking for the crowd. Tonight we won’t have as many people but we are looking forward to the evening with friends, good food, and welcoming the Sabbath. Thus the important stop at the vegetable market on the way home this afternoon!
Life here is never boring – for sure! The other day one of our nurses asked me if I was a Jew! I was confused at first and wondering if she was asking about my religion (sometimes people think I’m not SDA since I don’t attend church every week) so when I clarified she said, “no, there are so many races in America and I was wondering if you are Jewish”. Haha – I said no and explained that I’m a mix of German, English, and Danish. That satisfied her but as I said – it’s never dull and you can never be sure what question will come up next! Until next time…
Saturday, March 6, 2010
Update on Life
The past 2 months have seemed to be quite eventful but I’ve only written about my trip to Kenya. So I guess I need to write a brief update although I don’t really want to just have a “travel log” (maybe it’s too late to avoid that).
After the drama of being evacuated from Kenya I was happy to stay home and not even venture to town right away. I honestly have never been through something like that where I felt so emotionally traumatized. Whether the threat was real or not, I felt like it was real and had to work through the fear and stress that I had. I’m thankful for Cristy who was patient with me and for my family who called me and provided the support I needed though they couldn’t be physically close. I’m thankful to have gotten past those feelings and that I’m safe and not permanently affected.
About a week after getting back from Kenya I came down with malaria. This is momentous for me because it is the first time in 2 ½ years of living in Africa that I’ve succumbed! It is a strange disease and like nothing I had felt before so that was why I decided to go get tested for malaria. Sure enough it was a mild case. I took the treatment that lasts for 3 days and started feeling better by the 4th day. I didn’t have a high fever and mostly just felt drained and tired. My energy was slow to come back though and I didn’t work much at all that week. I then had some severe pain and congestion in my ears the next week but that also cleared up eventually. During this time Cristy was gone mostly so she wasn’t around to take care of me but my neighbors checked on me which was nice.
Thankfully Cristy’s trip to Kenya was uneventful and she had a good time at the continuing education class for missionary doctors in Africa. The most exciting thing was that we had planned a vacation to Victoria Falls after her trip so Cristy flew from Nairobi to Lusaka and met me there. Well it wasn’t just me - Fernando, Blanca, and Lety flew with me from Malawi to Lusaka then Anthony (who lives in Lusaka but worked in Malawi for a short time) met us there as well. We took a bus to Livingstone and spent 4 days there near the falls. Cristy was brave enough to bungie jump while the rest of us cheered her on. We went white water rafting, took a sunset cruise on the upper Zambezi and basically just relaxed and enjoyed the beautiful area. It rained a lot which added to the relaxation factor for me as the rain just makes me want to curl up and read or sleep.
On the way back in the bus Anthony and I got off near Riverside Farm. This is where I was a student missionary 10 YEARS AGO!!! (don’t make any comments about getting old!) Anthony worked there for about 4 years so knows everyone there and it was fun to go back. The main missionary family that I worked with is still there and a few of the Zambians that I knew were around. It was fun to see them and see how the place is doing. I can’t believe that the time has already passed and yes, I do feel old! The place is lovely and doing well so it was a short but sweet visit.
So my opinion is that vacation was exactly what I needed to recover from malaria and the emotional stress from Kenya. I feel back to my normal self and am so happy for that. Malamulo Hospital is doing alright - they survive ok without me (imagine that!?). Mr. Don is back now so I am no longer “interim CEO” which I am grateful for. Wes and Chrislyn are coming back in about 2 weeks and Dr. Fam is back from his holiday. My Mom asked if I felt like things are getting back to normal - I laughed and said I don’t know what “normal” is. But I think as close to normal as we can get is coming.
The hospital is busy this time of year with seeing 100-200 children every day in the out-patient and pediatric departments. Malaria is the main concern but there are also complications that come along with that. We have also been busy with quite sick adults and many surgeries and births. Thankfully due to financial help from the government children are getting treated sooner (with the fee charged to the government) and our mortality rate has dropped significantly in the past 3 months. Now we just need to have the government pay their bill.
Every day brings new challenges and new chances to be thankful. I had two days of meetings last week with the CDC office in Malawi and all of their partners who are receiving PEPFAR funds from the US government. I was representing Loma Linda University as part of a Laboratory Consortium so those meetings were very interesting and beneficial. There is a lot of good work being done related to HIV/AIDS here in Malawi and it was nice to hear from other organizations what their plans are and to network with Malamulo in mind.
This week we have the Executive Secretary of the General Conference of SDA’s, Elder Bediako visiting on Friday morning. The campus is buzzing with activity – weeding, painting, polishing and general spiffy-ing up until the place shines for this church dignitary.
I also feel challenged personally to stay focused and to continue to feel like I am adding value here as well as fulfilling the job I was given. I have gotten the question “so how long are you staying in Malawi?” many times in the past month or so. I don’t have a good answer at this point and right now am just planning to continue here unless something happens or I am directed to go somewhere else. My initial agreement is over in July of this year but it seems as though I will be here longer at this point.
After the drama of being evacuated from Kenya I was happy to stay home and not even venture to town right away. I honestly have never been through something like that where I felt so emotionally traumatized. Whether the threat was real or not, I felt like it was real and had to work through the fear and stress that I had. I’m thankful for Cristy who was patient with me and for my family who called me and provided the support I needed though they couldn’t be physically close. I’m thankful to have gotten past those feelings and that I’m safe and not permanently affected.
About a week after getting back from Kenya I came down with malaria. This is momentous for me because it is the first time in 2 ½ years of living in Africa that I’ve succumbed! It is a strange disease and like nothing I had felt before so that was why I decided to go get tested for malaria. Sure enough it was a mild case. I took the treatment that lasts for 3 days and started feeling better by the 4th day. I didn’t have a high fever and mostly just felt drained and tired. My energy was slow to come back though and I didn’t work much at all that week. I then had some severe pain and congestion in my ears the next week but that also cleared up eventually. During this time Cristy was gone mostly so she wasn’t around to take care of me but my neighbors checked on me which was nice.
Thankfully Cristy’s trip to Kenya was uneventful and she had a good time at the continuing education class for missionary doctors in Africa. The most exciting thing was that we had planned a vacation to Victoria Falls after her trip so Cristy flew from Nairobi to Lusaka and met me there. Well it wasn’t just me - Fernando, Blanca, and Lety flew with me from Malawi to Lusaka then Anthony (who lives in Lusaka but worked in Malawi for a short time) met us there as well. We took a bus to Livingstone and spent 4 days there near the falls. Cristy was brave enough to bungie jump while the rest of us cheered her on. We went white water rafting, took a sunset cruise on the upper Zambezi and basically just relaxed and enjoyed the beautiful area. It rained a lot which added to the relaxation factor for me as the rain just makes me want to curl up and read or sleep.
On the way back in the bus Anthony and I got off near Riverside Farm. This is where I was a student missionary 10 YEARS AGO!!! (don’t make any comments about getting old!) Anthony worked there for about 4 years so knows everyone there and it was fun to go back. The main missionary family that I worked with is still there and a few of the Zambians that I knew were around. It was fun to see them and see how the place is doing. I can’t believe that the time has already passed and yes, I do feel old! The place is lovely and doing well so it was a short but sweet visit.
So my opinion is that vacation was exactly what I needed to recover from malaria and the emotional stress from Kenya. I feel back to my normal self and am so happy for that. Malamulo Hospital is doing alright - they survive ok without me (imagine that!?). Mr. Don is back now so I am no longer “interim CEO” which I am grateful for. Wes and Chrislyn are coming back in about 2 weeks and Dr. Fam is back from his holiday. My Mom asked if I felt like things are getting back to normal - I laughed and said I don’t know what “normal” is. But I think as close to normal as we can get is coming.
The hospital is busy this time of year with seeing 100-200 children every day in the out-patient and pediatric departments. Malaria is the main concern but there are also complications that come along with that. We have also been busy with quite sick adults and many surgeries and births. Thankfully due to financial help from the government children are getting treated sooner (with the fee charged to the government) and our mortality rate has dropped significantly in the past 3 months. Now we just need to have the government pay their bill.
Every day brings new challenges and new chances to be thankful. I had two days of meetings last week with the CDC office in Malawi and all of their partners who are receiving PEPFAR funds from the US government. I was representing Loma Linda University as part of a Laboratory Consortium so those meetings were very interesting and beneficial. There is a lot of good work being done related to HIV/AIDS here in Malawi and it was nice to hear from other organizations what their plans are and to network with Malamulo in mind.
This week we have the Executive Secretary of the General Conference of SDA’s, Elder Bediako visiting on Friday morning. The campus is buzzing with activity – weeding, painting, polishing and general spiffy-ing up until the place shines for this church dignitary.
I also feel challenged personally to stay focused and to continue to feel like I am adding value here as well as fulfilling the job I was given. I have gotten the question “so how long are you staying in Malawi?” many times in the past month or so. I don’t have a good answer at this point and right now am just planning to continue here unless something happens or I am directed to go somewhere else. My initial agreement is over in July of this year but it seems as though I will be here longer at this point.
Sunday, January 31, 2010
HOME
What do you think of when you hear the word “home”? Maybe it’s a childhood house, a street, a school that identifies home to you. Or maybe it is where you live now – with your pets, kids, and spouse. What has made that place take on the meaning of “home” to you? At some point we leave our childhood home and venture out to create our own definition of home. Is there something that identifies this place as home? I heard recently of one family who were always moving around and the Mother had a vase and picture that she always kept with them and the children soon associated “home” with those items and when the vase came out of her suitcase and the picture went on the wall – then they were home.
At the recent missionary training class I attended these questions of “home” came to my mind and I realized that for the first time, I think, I feel that Malawi and the house that I share with Cristy is home. Some of that feeling was triggered by the somewhat traumatic experiences that our group had while in Nairobi and my feeling that I would rather be in Malawi where it is safe, but I think also just being away I realized that it is home to me.
When I think of the places I feel at home a big part of it is my comfort of being myself. However “being home” and “feeling at home” are two different things. I can “feel at home” anywhere were the host is welcoming and where I feel comfortable. However feeling like “I am home” is a different level. Part of this is related to having a few special things around me but also just feeling at ease with my surroundings. It was especially made clear to me on Thursday night the 21st when we were instructed to pack our things and evacuate out of Nairobi as fast as possible. I no longer felt safe there but I was surprised that I didn’t have a strong desire to go back to the US – to my family. To me, right then, “home” meant feeling safe and I associated that with Malawi. This realization surprised me.
There have been times when I’ve said “home is wherever I am living” and that is probably because I haven’t lived in my childhood home since I was 14 years old. Maybe this perspective has contributed to how comfortable I feel about traveling and living abroad. Now, before my family feels bad I think that my childhood house will always have a special place in my heart and will be one definition of “home”. Those walls, the garden, trees, and hills are where I spent my formative years and are firmly imbedded in my memories. But in reality their house has become theirs’ and not mine which is ok and part of the growing up process.
I guess the definition of home might change over time but I have a new appreciation for the comfort and rest that having a place to come back to brings. It also reminds me of the promise of God to be our source of protection and place of safety (Ps. 18:2). This can be our home wherever we find ourselves.
At the recent missionary training class I attended these questions of “home” came to my mind and I realized that for the first time, I think, I feel that Malawi and the house that I share with Cristy is home. Some of that feeling was triggered by the somewhat traumatic experiences that our group had while in Nairobi and my feeling that I would rather be in Malawi where it is safe, but I think also just being away I realized that it is home to me.
When I think of the places I feel at home a big part of it is my comfort of being myself. However “being home” and “feeling at home” are two different things. I can “feel at home” anywhere were the host is welcoming and where I feel comfortable. However feeling like “I am home” is a different level. Part of this is related to having a few special things around me but also just feeling at ease with my surroundings. It was especially made clear to me on Thursday night the 21st when we were instructed to pack our things and evacuate out of Nairobi as fast as possible. I no longer felt safe there but I was surprised that I didn’t have a strong desire to go back to the US – to my family. To me, right then, “home” meant feeling safe and I associated that with Malawi. This realization surprised me.
There have been times when I’ve said “home is wherever I am living” and that is probably because I haven’t lived in my childhood home since I was 14 years old. Maybe this perspective has contributed to how comfortable I feel about traveling and living abroad. Now, before my family feels bad I think that my childhood house will always have a special place in my heart and will be one definition of “home”. Those walls, the garden, trees, and hills are where I spent my formative years and are firmly imbedded in my memories. But in reality their house has become theirs’ and not mine which is ok and part of the growing up process.
I guess the definition of home might change over time but I have a new appreciation for the comfort and rest that having a place to come back to brings. It also reminds me of the promise of God to be our source of protection and place of safety (Ps. 18:2). This can be our home wherever we find ourselves.
Friday, January 15, 2010
Request for Photos
I haven't posted any photos for a while so I thought I'd just post some here. I am in Nairobi for 3 weeks attending Institute of World Missions so am excited to have speedy internet which makes this easier. It is a good class, I am learning a lot and feel privileged to be included since I'm not an official GC employee. I have posted more photos on Facebook so if you want to see more go to my page and check them out.
Senga Bay, Lake Malawi
Hobbes pooped out after all the decoration!!
Cristy, Anthony, & Me (Christmas Day
Me and a little girl in Nagwengwe village
Scott Guptill and I (Mindi was taking the photo) eating Indian food at the Yaya center in Nairobi - notice the copper pots for the curry! YUM
Soap stone workshop in Nairobi - this is where the items are painted before sold in the markets
Plumeria or Frangipani blossom (photo by Cristy)
Our house decorated for Christmas (thanks to Kelly)
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