New Year’s in Cape Maclear

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(New Year’s Eve in Cape Maclear)

Eric and I are continuing our adventures across Malawi. We just spent the last five days at Cape Maclear chilling out at one of my favorite spots in the entire country! Cape Maclear, a World Heritage Site as well as a national park, combines the beauty of the lake and its natural environs with the hustle and bustle of Chembe Village.

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(The Tailor in Chembe)

I’m starting to feel like a local in this corner of the world, especially as I walk down the beach and say hello to familiar faces, often being greeted by name in return.

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(Reuben)

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(Amy and Reuben)

Over the years I’ve become quite fond of one child in particular, Reuben, who holds a special place in my heart. I ‘discovered’ his photographic eye on my first visit to Cape Maclear and now delight in not only seeing his beautiful smile but also turning him loose with my camera.

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(Amy and Eric – Photo taken by Reuben)

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(Another Reuben Photo)

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(And another Reuben creation)

One morning he shyly asked if I could help with his school fees. Before I could give an answer, I wanted to speak to his family directly to ensure that any money provided would actually go towards his education. So hand-in-hand, Reuben led me through the village and up the small path that led to his house.

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(Fisherman outside of Cape Maclodge)

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(Eric interacting with children on the beach)

As it turns out, Reuben, the youngest of eight is the only child who has not received a proper education. My little heart went out to him as I listened to his brother, Havent, explain how his father, a poor fishermen, couldn’t afford to send Reuben to school and that his future had been weighing heavily on their hearts and minds.

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I noticed the dichotomy between Havent’s English speaking abilities (obviously well-educated) and Reuben’s (who only speaks Chichewa).

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His family was genuinely warm, caring and loving – and I honestly believe that any money donated would be spent towards school fees and uniforms – and not just squandered. As such, I gladly handed Reuben’s father the 15,000 Kwacha (or the equivalent of $100) and only hope that this opportunity begins the transformation of Reuben’s life.

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(Reuben’s Family)

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(Reuben’s Dad)

Now that the main road from Lilongwe to Cape Maclear has been somewhat paved, I will be able to follow-up with my ‘investment’ more frequently. Ideally, Reuben will need school fees not just for this year but for many…I’d love to provide that steady source of income that would not only ensure quality education but also a chance to earn a decent income as he gets older.

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(Chilling out at Otters Point)

What a great way to start off the New Year – to provide hope and change for one person’s life. In return, this symbolic gesture also renewed my hopes and desires for change in 2009.

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(Boats in Lake Malawi)

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(The road from Dedza to Monkey Bay)

And I must say, it’s been great ringing in the New Year with my best friend, Eric! He and I became friends during our Peace Corps Jamaica days over twelve years ago and have remained close ever since. What a gift to spend time with someone with whom you have a shared history as well as an inherent understanding of the different facets of each other’s lives. For this, I am truly grateful.

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(Amy and Eric)

I wish you all a happy, healthy New Year! And that 2009 brings great peace, happiness and prosperity into each of your lives.

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Sending much love,
Amy

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(Music on the beach)

1 comment to New Year’s in Cape Maclear

  • Dave Leversen

    Amy,
    Your blog is beautiful, and your writing is so real and clear. I love it.
    I also appreciate the pictures of my brother. He takes great pictures when he’s on his adventures, but yours (and Reuben’s) are even better.
    I’m also very touched by your story of Reuben and his family and how you are able to help him. I believe that the solutions to human need are best served on a personal level just as you’re doing with Reuben.
    Thanks for sharing. Hope you don’t mind if I forward your blog link to some friends of mine who know Eric.

    Kyrie eleison,
    Dave

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