Best Friends at Home and in Malawi -- Malinda and Stacy's Story
Just a few minutes in the same room with these amazing women will have you rolling on the floor with laughter. Their joy is contagious! And now, they've turned their friendship into more than just a good time together by working on projects to benefit the children.
But don't just hear it from us, here are their stories:
Malinda's Story
From July 2013 to July 2014 I had the opportunity to travel to Malawi 3 times. This is pretty remarkable considering that when I first learned about the opportunity to work with Mark Miller from Texas Tech University and partner with Circle of Hope on a research project to address food insecurity in Malawi, I was clear that although I was willing to help from the U.S., I was not going to Malawi.
Nope. Don’t get me wrong, I was totally onboard with COH the first time I heard about it. But, my fears, insecurities, and uncertainties were keeping my feet firmly on U.S. soil. And then…I went. The research we did there was rewarding, but more importantly I fell in love with the precious children and the hope and possibilities found in Christ’s work in Malawi.
After returning from each trip, I’ve been eager to share with others about Circle of Hope and the beautiful Malawian people. It’s been a privilege to discover that part of my piece is sharing my experiences with my family, friends, colleagues, and students.
Stacy's Story
I first learned of Malawi and the work of COH from my dear friend and colleague, Malinda. She shared stories and photos and the love of this program and the Malawian people. I knew I had to go. I got to do just that this past July.
I have not yet fully explored the ways in which I have been forever changed. I have not yet learned all the lessons that were so graciously taught to me while I was there. I have not yet fully uncovered the piece that God has for me in Africa. However, when Karen and Pastor came to Texas Tech and visited the Child Development Research Center, I discovered that my piece is to help with the preschool and to help with the playground. These are things I know…. Things about which I am passionate. The road that my piece will take me down is still not clear to me. But I will walk it in faith. I will walk it with my friend, Malinda. I will walk it with my daughter, Kayla, as she discovers her piece. What a blessing.
Riding the bike at the playground at Texas Tech as we dream about our Playground for the Grace Center!
