Last Days in Africa

Yesterday morning followed the usual routine with therapy and activities. The hard part was that we knew it would be the last time we saw some of the kiddos. These children become so much part of our lives during our time here, that it inconceivable that we will suddenly be without them. The afternoon burial of Andrew in the cemetery behind Haven 2 brought it all home and made a difficult day even harder.

The truck carrying the coffin and many mourners arrived around 15:00 hours followed by several cars and a large truck full of mourners. The coffin was placed on a table and opened for viewing. Mama Cecelia spoke, a group of women sang and then all were invited to view the body. In western cultures, mourners are expected to be reserved but I think here they are expected to be demonstrative. We then all walked to the cemetery. They discovered that the coffin would not fit so the grave had to be expanded. Apparently, coffins are not often used. Megan told Andrew’s story but never mentioned his name. She referred to him as “the baby” and “the child”. There must have been a cultural reason that I knew nothing about. The family (grandmother and other distant relatives) all threw a handful of dirt in the grave and then we waited while the grave was filled and mounded. Megan then put flowers on the grave, Kathy’s daughter put a toy and the grandmother put a bag of potato puffs (the last food I saw Andrew eat. Then it was over and everyone returned to the life they are living. The photo is of the corn crib behind Haven 1.

Over supper, we learned of a potential crisis. Apparently, all of our transportation plans to get us all to Lusaka had fallen through and there was a rush to come up with alternatives. These included driving multiple trips to Lusaka or taking the local “blue busses”. Both options had problems. While Kel was talking to Martin (one of Ellie’s “sons” in Livingstone, Martin saw a bus that he thought might be from Lusaka. A few minutes later, a bus that had delivered passengers from Lusaka to Livingstone was acquired to take us on the return trip.

Last night was spent packing and last minute good-byes. We are all so tired but not ready to leave. This morning Ian took this photo of a Grey Lourie (also known as a "go-away bird"). It has a distinct call that warns other animals. Check out the link to hear and read about this African bird. It seems appropriate that it would visit us today.

Tonight we are at the Protea in Lusaka tonight and fly out tomorrow.