Independence and Trojan

Happy Independence Day! 28 years of freedom... although many in this country are asking, "freedom for who?" and "is this really freedom?" Celebrations went on as usual with the President addressing the nation and rallying the troops. The presidential election of 3 weeks ago is simply not mentioned - because the wrong person won... or so we heard "unofficially." We heard last night that they found a shipment of arms from China waiting to be delivered to Zim from South Africa. That can't be a good sign... BUT WE'RE SAFE!

We just got back from a few days in Trojan mine, Bindura. It was a good experience, and our hosts were amazing, but I have to admit that I'm glad to be back to our bed and our toilet (I'm used to the squatting, but still have this fear that I'm going to pee on my shoes in the Blair toilet!) Trojan is a huge nickel dime, and we were there with the ZSYL. It's inspiring to be with these emerging leaders, and to read their thoughts (I mark all their assignments) and participate in their journey. They're an amazing group. I found out that one of our students (Itai - meaning "do it") has the middle name Anywhere. Do it anywhere - a new favourite Zimbabwean name.

So many students this year are double-orphans - caring for younger siblings and working full-time. Their commitment and courage humble me. One student was sharing his story about being the child of a second wife, but being raised by the first when his mother was chased from the village. Another one was asking for prayer because his 4 older brothers have died, and at the latest funeral the "prophets" were all saying that he would be next. I talked to his pastor about it, and he said the brothers all died of "this disease" (people are still reluctant to name HIV/AIDS). He said that Obrain (our student; pronounced Obrian - maybe the parents just got the spelling wrong...) is under a lot of pressure to go "take care" of his brother's family. This "taking care" is traditional, and also involves having sex with his late brother's wife. If he does, he will get infected and he WILL be the next to go. It's all kind of scary! And it reminds me once again of the many, many challenges people in this country are facing, and the many, many reasons I admire Zimbabweans. If you pray, please pray for the students of the Zimbabwe School of Youth Leadership - and for Zimbabwe in general.