We can choose to: Throw stones, Stumble on them, Climb over them or Build with them
Zimbabwe has certainly been a learning curve in the lives of those who have either chosen to stay here, or been forced to stay here. How one has adjusted to the difficulties has been a matter of choice. For those that have chosen to Trust in the Lord, the learning curve has been easier. He hasn't removed the burden, but helped to carry the burden. For those who have left the country, for whatever reason, I am quite sure have had to make huge adjustments to their lives as well.
The end of last year, and the beginning of this year has been quite traumatic for the ordinary individual economically. The government were quite determined to keep the Z$ alive. The reason being, Dr. Gono and other fat cats were making an absolute fortune out of the situation. Anyway, enough said. The situation in the country has certainly changed, from there being no food on the shelves, to now being able to purchase most commodities. Competition has re-entered the arena, and one has to be careful of where and who you buy from.
Multi currency trading, although inevetable, has brought with it, it's fair share of problems as well. For those of us who were fortunate enough to have access to some real money, were able to perform economic Gymnastics, and Zimbabwe was one of the cheapest countries in the world to live - even if it was a handstand to find commodities. It is now vying for position to become one of the more expensive countries. There are of course lots of countries that are still more expensive. There have been some very positive results of the multi currency trading, and possibly the most positive, is the availability and cost of essential medical drugs. We have noticed the cost of medical supplies reduced dramatically in real terms. Some medical practitioners are still unethically and immorally charging "an arm and a leg" to remove a toe. We are extremely fortunate and blessed to have Dr. Kevin Martin here in Marondera, looking after us at The Trust. He has taken on a partner Dr. Farai (recently qualified), who I am assured is also very good. The Borradaile Hospital (privately run) still maintains a very high standard, and tries to contain their charges to a reasonable level.
We have plans to sink another borehole on the property, and in conjunction with the Borradaile Hospital, hope to have this working in the near future.
Deidre Steynberg is enthusiastically embarked on a fund raising mission to get this into fruition.
Visitors we have had from "civilised" countries always remark on how we cope with unexpected and unscheduled cuts in utilities like water and electricity. When you live with a situation, you learn to adjust. There is no gain in being miserable and complaining, one learns very quickly to "make a plan".
Although the situation is still tough, we continue to be immensely blessed here at Borradaile Trust with the support we receive. A very big thank you to those who continue that support, especially in these times of World recession.
I end with a quotation from Audrey Hepburn: "If you want a helping hand, you will find it at the end of your arm. As you grow older, you learn that you have two hands - one for helping yourself, and the other for helping others"
regards, and God's blessings on all you wonderful people who continue to support us - Either in kind and cash, or in prayer - all esential.
Anton Lues
Warden - The Borradaile Trust
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