Hygiene training

OK, this is my first blogging attempt. I think part of this blog is to let our friends and family that aren't coming along know what is going on, right? Well, let's just say while we are not yet in Zambia, we are becoming quite a team. Many of us have had the pleasure of Hygiene training with Kirk (from Seeds of Hope/ Vineyard) and Diane (from Lifewater/ Vineyard). The training is intended to be cross cultural and interactive (participatory), so there are many skits, pictures, and discussions with laughter being a common denominator. It was intense. Thank you both for coming to Boise.

Many of us were wondering what we would do while the builders build...and this just might be part of it. Water, how to keep it clean, and what happens when it isn't are huge issues in Zambia. We learned how to make a solution that can save a baby's life. Diahrea is bad...but worse, when babies get it, unknowing parents stop feeding or giving drink to the baby. The dehydration can kill within 48 hours. The solution of water, salt, sugar and fruit is simple, and parents can make it for their babies. I think being able to help a mother save her baby would be a pretty cool thing to be a part of.

In many villages, kids play in the same area animals relieve themselves. This leads to many diseases. In one village that received training two years ago, the animals are now penned. There is no more cholera. Maybe we can be a part of that for other villages.

The percentage of children under the age of 15 is huge. I'd throw out a number, but I can't remember what it is and don't want to lie...so I'll just say humongous. These children are living with older siblings or grandparents...who are working all day trying to provide. The kids are "daytime" orphans and many are just plain orphans. We want to physically and spiritually hug these kids who don't get hugs from anybody else. Or talk to them. Or play with them. Or pray with them. Or just be with them. After talking to Kirk and Diane, we know the possibilities are endless.

Some of us (me included) are first timers. Others of us have been many times. We are all committed to building a building and building relationships. We want to serve. I have seen that in my team members and am proud to be part of what is happening. There are many differences between us and the Zambians. There are also many similarities. We are all God's children, and I think if we keep that at the forefront of our thoughts, we can't help but be successful.