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Girl Power!

by Lynne Kreher

As I reflect back on the past 10 days as I sit on the bus heading back to Hopewell after our 16 hour flight from Cape Town to Newark, I can't help but smile. It was a great trip with a great group of people who each brought their own special and unique gifts to the team. My "gift" or certainly what I enjoy the most is the physical labor of the house building. 

On the first morning of each trip the entire team assembles at the job site to how the houses are built and try their hand at brickwork. It's not for everybody and I appreciate that. Some have a heart for Avodah, the adults with special needs group, some have a passion for the children in the Ma's and Mosaic programs, some want to spend time with Mom's affirming them and praying with them. It's all good stuff and there's certainly crossover among the opportunities.  But, if it's a build day, I'm there. 

After lunch on the first day, I was the only woman in our group who returned to the worksite. It was the same for all the subsequent work days and I was happy to represent for my gender. Girl Power!

What was really cool was that all the local workers (all men, of course) treated me no differently and cut me no slack and I wouldn't want it any other way! I really felt like one of the "guys" and part of the team. In fact, the foreman, Ndaba,  said one day, "Can you stay? We can use you." I THINK he was joking...

This was my 7th trip to South Africa and potentially the last opportunity to help build a house. Will I still feel called to go there if that is not an option? I don't know. I have gotten to know some of the moms fairly well and they remember me when they see me and always embrace me with such love that I have a feeling I will return. 

God be with you, South Africa, 'til we meet again. ❤️


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