The allure of Malawians

We quickly found the Malawian people compelling, especially their complex culture and simple gifts of smiles, laughter and singing. They have a mature understanding of God’s love and promises. Their acceptance, perseverance, hope and faith that intermingle seamlessly with daily financial stress, illness and heartbreak is nothing short of amazing … and inspirational.

After 3 months, we consider most of our closest friends to be Malawians.  Lyson and Lucy Kachoka, Miqlat’s house managers (translations, directing property staff, cleaning, washing, errands, etc.); Samuel, Miqlat’s head gardner; Thokazani, a teacher at Thuchila Hope Center; Rafael, Billy and Winston, Miqlat’s night watchmen, and many more.

Samuel Dimba (Miqlat Head Gardner) with his wife Asinta
and their 3 children. As Annie says, Samuel has a “million dollar smile”.
They are standing here in front of their “family business” –
a small stand on the dirt road of our home.

 We drove an hour to take Lyson and Lucy to their home village 

near Mulanje Mountain where they were repairing their mother's home.  

Here we are enjoying the standard Malawian lunch of nsima and relish 

(with the treat of a fresh chicken, killed for us just minutes before cooking. 

Leanne was given the honor to gut and clean the chicken with Lucy!)

Thokozani, a facilitator (teacher) at Thuchila Hope Center,
has become our Malawian sister!