Patience is Happiness

Today was a busy day full of promise. Patti and I were happy to spend the day with Limbani Banda, a famous Malawian musician and beloved friend. (To see one of his music videos, go to:   http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KsvuJrK37e8 ).  Limbani took us to the bank to prepare for our purchases for the day. As we left, a bank employee made a point to connect with Limbani, happy to see him there. The police along the side of the road told him they had his music CD and smiled. He helped us negotiate at the hardware store to purchase all of the goods and lumber necessary for the building of the bookshelves. We then went back to Malemia Village and dropped off all of the supplies at the school. Sesso, the carpenter, along with some young men from the village, helped to unload everything. I know it was very heavy.  The village children gathered to catch a glimpse of Limbani, and readily recognized him. And, the head teacher giggled like a school girl in his presence. They were so excited to have him in their village. We were asked how we knew THE Limbani Banda. So, this was a big day, perhaps not because of the lumber, but due to Limbani’s visit to the village. Patti and I felt like we were riding around with a celebrity!


I really enjoyed the time with Limbani today. He is a good soul. He wants to bring out the good in Malawi and for people to accept people as people, not because of money or status, but for what is inside the heart. He talked about how he is a patient man, and that patience is happiness. He is very wise, indeed.   I know I could learn a lot from his example of patience.  We talked about poverty and what makes people do the things they do. We talked about how God is the source of all things good.

During part of our time together today, Limbani picked up the phone and called my husband, Bob. It was such a treat for me to have a few brief moments to talk with Bob, even though I know it was very early in the morning for him. Limbani said it would be good for me to hear the sound of my husband’s voice. He was right. 

Limbani is a very special person with so much good to share with the world and so many deep thoughts on how life should be for the human race.  The essence of life is simple, really, and need not be complicated. I know that all who know Limbani and hear his music are blessed to have been connected with him. I appreciate all he has done to help us today and will never forget his kindness.