L to R are Chief William and his Headmen. At the head of the table is Pastor Adziliwi Budeli who opened the evening with motivating thoughts, gratitude and prayer.
Other attendees were people involved in some of the projects we have going in the villages. Here are the 3 Families who work a Community Garden. L to R are Rosina and husband Titos, Jane and husband Frank and Aida and husband Nelson. We have been working with them for 3 years.
This is the "School Table." R to L are Gilbert, Fhetani H.S. Principal, Jane, School Chairperson and Edison, Tshikuyu Primary Principal. We served a traditional Venda meal of chicken stew over their beloved mealie meal.
A person representing each project shared about their project and how it helped them. Pastor Budeli talked about the half year supply of food for their little Creche, about the "store" for the people around the area of his Church; how they were able to buy clothes for almost nothing, and take care of their children. He also shared about HHTH helping them with their vision of taking in orphans, educating them and getting them out of their destitute situation. Gilbert Mbedzi interpreted for us. Then he shared how feeding 23 orphans in his school will help them to concentrate better and be able to "want" to achieve their goals. Gilbert was also very grateful for the reconditioned iPad and the computer that will allow him to bring better lessons to his learners and be able to network with not only his teachers, but also other principals.
Willie, the chef was surprised by a pair of shoes presented to him. We noticed his shoes were falling apart and he worked so hard to feed us good meals while we were at Awelani. He could hardly believe that he was getting shoes!
The Headmen that we were unable to distribute mosquito nets to for their people were given the nets to distribute to pregnant women, young mothers and the elderly. This is a coveted possession. Malaria still has a devastating effect on their lives.
Gifts were wrapped in wrap around skirts and headdresses I made for each recipient's wife. It is customary to give a gift to the Chief and the Headmen, and we did. The Chief had asked for a suit last year, so, CJ found good suits at the Salvation Army and got one for the Chief and all the headmen.
However, since the Chief must always get more than anyone else, he received a shirt and tie as well. And all their wives received the wrap skirts and headdresses. We saw them wearing their new clothes the very next day.
Then we were delightfully entertained by the High School girls who performed their Traditional Dances for us. They were so excited to dance for all us, particularly their Chief.
Everyone felt so good about all the work going on in the villages and they wanted photos taken for us. Peoples lives are changing a little at a time and there is a beautiful color of hope in the air. Sharing all of this at a common meal was very important and exciting for them. They now know that HHTH is a positive force for good in their lives and they know we will be back.
The traditional dancers were happy to have their photo taken and they felt truly appreciated. All of the gratitude was so warming and came from their hearts.
It is hard to say goodbye, but the time had come to leave our beloved Villages and start our long trip home.
There is more to come.... So, until next time... Goodnight from The Bush . . .
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