Mama Gardener

The song California Girls just came on in the cafe where I'm attempting to try and work not laying down. It reminded me of my mom, sitting on the bed of our hostel in Heathrow, watching the music video, and telling me it was her favorite song. This was the person who went from being apprehensive about our trip, going so far as to wanting a helicopter out the first day, to acquiring an African family and tearing up in the London airport after leaving Africa and our team of people. The person who is now thinking about how much we waste in America after going to breakfast with some of her friends. Who is excited about sharing with her community of family and friends about the life-changing effects of potable water from W-E-L-L-S in a remote African village. Who wishes that her church would adopt African dancing during its weekly worship services. Who stamped books and read to children who waited all day outside of the windows of the library I was trying to start. Who prayed with me about how the books were going to get over there and made a friend who knew exactly where the books should go. Who loves chipate and can't want to try the recipe at home. Who wants my dad's eyes now opened to the reality of a third world country where people contain joy and love that we in the developed world cannot comprehend. Whose facebook profile now shows her picture with girls that she and her friends helped to dress by hosting a pillowcase dress-making party. Whose worldview has been forever changed.
I'm privileged to have traveled and shared this valuable experience with you. Love you, Mom!