John is one of the reasons that Zambia holds such a special place in my heart. Him and his wife, Tebia, are such special, special people. You feel so at home with them, so welcome, so loved. They go above and beyond the call of duty, always willing to help and serve.
John was one of the first Zambian faces we saw this summer, meeting us at the airport with the lorrie. He was also one of the last, dropping us off at the airport. In between, he was there to help out wherever needed - filling up the vehicles with gas, helping empty the container, driving with Lia out to her cousin's birth village, helping distribute soccer balls and jerseys. He was always happy, always smiling.
One of my favourite memories of John was from 2003. John and Tebia invited Tamara, Tim Krogsgaard and me over to their house for a visit. We enjoyed watching a Nigerian movie, sipped Fanta, munched on ground nuts, and just enjoyed each other's company.
My heart aches for that place. What I wouldn't give to be there right now. I wish I could somehow take away all of the pain for Tebia, and for their three kids, Miyoba, Junior and Sue. I feel so far away, so powerless to do anything. I don't know what I'd do, but I just wish that I could do something, anything. I'm in denial about it - I still feel like I could get on a plane, fly over there, and have John meet me at the airport, just like always.
My life has been blessed by knowing John Kambulu. I'm thankful to consider him one of my friends, and I am so glad that I had the opportunity to see him again this summer. I look forward to being able to see him again, when I can see his smiling face, hear his laugh, and we can chat over a Fanta again.
3 comments:
Oh, Jilly,
So many hearts are heavy tonight with the news of John's passing. I have just returned from Tamala's house where we were able to cry, but also smile and laugh together over our precious memories of John. One of my clear memories is of John around the campfire on our final evening at Namwianga, singing in his great bass voice. And I remember him sitting on a chair in the guest house living room, patiently waiting for Tebia as she went about her nursing duties. And his smile meeting us at the airport and throwing our bags into the lorrie will always remain firmly in my mind. Remembering is good - and when you are home over Christmas, we will have more chances to remember and be thankful for this very special person that God put into our lives. We will miss him and all of Zambia will miss him. Our love and prayers go out to Tebia and the kids, and all those who will miss their dear friend.
Thanks for your memories. The photo will be special to all of us.
Love, mom xoxo
Beautiful memories Jilly. It was good to talk to you last night.
He was such an amazing individual and I know we are blessed for the time we had together.
I will remember John for a long time. He was a special person, a great friend and brother in Christ. I will miss him very much but not as much as the people in Zambia. Going back to Zambia will never be the same without John there to meet us and serve us with his ever present smile. The picture says it all!
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