Hope is having a friend

We're twenty-four hours into our experience in Rwanda and already I can tell you there's nothing like having a friend by your side to take it all in with you.

Being in a place as new and exotic as this can rearrange your soul on a fundamental level. Being in a completely new context helps you understand who you are in a new way. All the silly things you hold on to to anchor yourself fall away and all that's left is the real you—that girl you used to know before you figured out how to wear your hair and put yourself together and make yourself presentable to the world.

Having a friend with you as you get all the layers peeled back gives you a solid place to stand. I didn't have that the first time I came to this magical place, and I didn't have it the second. But I have a friend with me now and it's making all the difference in the world.

Comments

[Elizabeth Harper]

Beautiful thoughts and lovely picture...perfect for showing what hope can do.

[Heather]

You've nailed it with this quote... "the real you—that girl you used to know before you figured out how to wear your hair and put yourself together and make yourself presentable to the world". I think that's what Africa did for me too.

[gillian]

So many take friendship for granted...it is a thing to be cherished and nurtured.
xo

[camerashymomma]

oh yes. well said "Being in a completely new context helps you understand who you are in a new way. "
i'm glad you are there together. double the eyes and hearts. i am thoroughly enjoying following along with your experience together.

[Lu]

Wonderful words and image. Be blessed, ladies.

[Vera]

This project is really wonderful, not just because you get to do something really profound, but that you get to do it with a friend. You are indeed blessed to be in this together.