Zambia, Africa Journal

October 15, 2003

Dear Diary:

Today was another hot and dry day in Kaoma, Zambia. The temperature reached as high as 96 degrees. I guess you could say that today was another typical way. I woke up this morning at 6:00 to go to work. I work along my mother and two sisters. We all work around 60 hours a week to provide food and shelter for the family. My father left about a year ago to find a better job in America. We hear from him once a month and he sends us money so that we can buy food. America, I wish I could go to become free from poverty.

I returned from working in the fields at about 4:00 in the evening. At that time, I was fortunate enough to receive a supper. My family and I ate what we could afford: one banana, rice, and some water. After we ate, my two sisters and I went outside to play with the younger children. We like to play with these children because it makes them happy. We are all like family in this town and we try to help each other. While, playing with the children we sing songs. The people of my town love to sing because it helps us rejoice and stay united.

When I returned from playing and singing, I went to my house to go to sleep. My mother and father made my house. It is a one-room shack made from scrap wood and hay. I am very proud of my parents and I appreciate how great they have made my life. I guess you could say that I am optimistic, however, I do think about life could be in a better and richer country. But, I try not to dread over that like most of my friends because I feel that it won't make my day-to-day life any happier. I hope one day that I could see how a day is lived in America. I wish I could go to America when I am older to make a better life for myself. I also hope to make more money for my family. I hope to go to school as well. I never went beyond grade school because money was needed for our family. Diary, I wish I could be with my father; it's hard being away from him. Goodnight.