October 21 - Chuck Lane

October 21, 2008 – Chuck Lane

The day started out so beautiful. There was light mist, it was cool, and the sun was coming up so slowly. Our first stop to distribute chlorinators was Luhlangotsini near
Pigg’s Peak. We were greeted by over 40 people waiting to show them how to use the chlorinators. We sat on rocks overlooking the hillsides. It was beautiful to see God’s creation. We were all greeted by the cattle. After showing them how to use the chlorinators, they were so thankful that we had traveled so far to do this and also for giving them 2 of the chlorinators to keep. You could see love in every face there.

Our second stop was Hhohho where we were greeted by about 20 people. Again the hillsides were so beautiful. We met inside a small church. Again the people listened as we showed them how to use the chlorinators. There was much discussion if they would work. They kept one. As we were leaving they gave us oranges and hugs. Again you could see love in their eyes even through their questions.

Our last stop was Mpofu. We were again greeted by 40 plus people. Also by the goats. Again we showed them how to use the chlorinators. They were very excited about the chlorinators and how much it will help their lives. Afterward, we were invited to a meal that they had prepared for us. The meal was great and we also had a short church service. They had welcomed us into their homes and served us a meal – we were strangers to them at first, but in the end we were brothers and sisters to one another. You could see that by the love in their eyes.

After the evening meal, we climbed into our vans and waved good-bye to them for the hospitality they showed us. As we drove down the dusty road the sun was again going down and it would be evening soon. As we drove away I thought – how lucky we all are to have clean water and almost everything we need. They have so less but so much love in their lives. They showed it by opening their homes with a meal to total strangers. I ask myself would we do that.