To Rwanda With Love, Hope & a Whole Lotta Girl Power
my dearest Odette (who I sometimes talk about on Twitter.)
Announcement number two! I have the opportunity to go to Rwanda to visit my friend Odette’s daughters and to encourage all the other girls along the way. “They need to know they are the power behind their country,” my dear Odette says to me. Thanks to my friend Grace McLaren who has graciously suggested I come with her to Rwanda to do this work while she tends to another project, I might just have a chance to do some amazing things.
At first, I could not imagine leaving right now–the trip is on May 19-27. I had no idea how I would find the money to go so soon or how I would even begin to ask my family for that kind of freedom or time away. But then Dave laughed (really) when I brought it up and said, “Babe. Of course, you have to do that.” And then Madeleine and Carter acted the same way. And then Odette–the one whose stories made me fall in love with Rwanda all year long–looked at me with those amazing eyes and said, “Jen. I have not seen my girls for two years, and I do not know when they are coming here. Can you leave yours for nine days? I promise I will be taking care of your kids while you look after mine. Please go.”
There is a phrase in Kinyarwanda that translates something like this: If not you, who? If not now, when? They used to tell Odette’s brothers this when she was a little girl in the refugee camps of Uganda, when they were organizing the rebel forces that would one day march straight to Kigali, ultimately ending the genocide and bringing a generation of refugees back home to Rwanda.
If not you, who? If not now, when?
It was the same thought that came to me, when I met Odette in a playground one year ago. She was in a very difficult and dangerous situation, and I knew I was in a unique position to do something about it. I remember standing there that day knowing I did not have to do one thing, but understanding that maybe I could, if we were both willing to take a chance.
Saying yes to my heart at that moment truly changed my life and while I can only write about it here in bits and pieces, it is the kind of story that has brought me an understanding of hope that I didn’t really know before. You see the fruit of that in these pages, in these pictures and in all the art I’ve created ever since Odette and I met.
When I told Odette that I thought I could do this trip, that I was willing to do my best to make it happen, her activist heart went wild, and together we came up with a plan for me to do some good on her behalf not only for her daughters Grace (12) and Lillian (9), but for all the girls I meet along my way.
I love this plan so much I can hardly stand it. It involves a brilliant zine written by Odette and illustrated by me. And it includes bringing HopeRevo.com to Africa which thrills me so much I cannot even tell you. Here’s a simple outline here, and if you cannot open it, send me an email and I’ll send it to you directly.
Plan for Rwanda Trip (PDF)
I found out this weekend that the discount airfares offered to my friend Grace ($1640 including taxes) would be extended to me for the next few days, if I can find the money. I have agonized over the money part of this trip–preparing proposals and doing my best to be as official about this as possible.
But all that aside, I cannot shake my deepest desire, and that is this: that I want to invite you, the readers of this blog to play a part in sending me on this trip as a soulsister and as an advocate for all things hope-full. I know this is a risk to do it this way, but I also know that when you do something like this with the kindness and support of a community, a special kind of courage follows.
No worries if this blows your mind or is not your thing. I totally understand. But if you’re thinking this is something you would like to be a part of, I would be truly and deeply honored. My inbox is open for every last curious question.
April 8th, 2008 at 2:32 am
In! Blessings on the trip, sis. Wash I could help more but we’ll start here
April 8th, 2008 at 2:42 am
Hi ~ I saw your Tweet in my Twitter-stream and was so glad to be the first to chip in. This is exactly the kind of trip I myself am looking into but have no idea how to do ~ so, if not me now, then I am so glad to help say “YOU now”! It’s not much $$ but it’s a start, and if I can chip in a little more on payday Thursday, I will. Bring us back your art, your photography, Odette’s zines, and the stories of all the girls you meet on this trip. Un abrazo, ~ marisa
April 8th, 2008 at 7:35 am
Oh, ye powerful dreamer, may the winds of hope carry you as far as your imagination and love and grace call you. May my little contribution to your Big Vision offer an inhalation, an exhalation and a Whole Lotta Girl Power to the cause of You, Now! Amen.
April 8th, 2008 at 8:34 am
I’m going to find a photo of Rwanda and paste you into it…visualizing you THERE. I can’t imagine it will be anything less than a life-changing (path-veering?) journey for you. xo
April 8th, 2008 at 9:08 am
Jen, I think this is a wonderful opportunity and adventure. I would love to support you in this, but unfortunately it will only be in spirit. Right now we are having some financial issues and I can’t help out. But I send my heart and soul out with you–you’ve been an inspiration through the days of darkness.
April 8th, 2008 at 9:29 am
busymomma–i totally hear you!! there are all kinds of ways to rally at times like this–and support in spirit is one of the strongest. i appreciate you.
April 8th, 2008 at 9:36 am
here you go, missy!
April 8th, 2008 at 9:45 am
I’m delurking to wish you the best and offer up what I can to help make it happen.
April 8th, 2008 at 9:50 am
there is a similar saying in hebrew - “if i am not for myself, then who will be for me? and if i am only for myself, then what am i? if not now, when?” -rabbi hillel i try to carry this in my heart. i know you carry it in yours. the kind of girl power that you can bring is unstoppable. go you! now!
April 8th, 2008 at 9:53 am
Jen, the money is small but the wishes and dreams behind it are big.
Safe travels!
April 8th, 2008 at 9:54 am
hope this little bit helps. Love and blessings to you.
April 8th, 2008 at 9:58 am
My gosh. The things I do before I brush my teeth in the morning. Here’s my contribution toward great things from someone with a huge heart, soul, energy and creative talents.
April 8th, 2008 at 10:00 am
Yikes, what a convoluted sentence I just wrote. (See what happens when I write before before brushing my teeth, let alon eating breakfast.) I meant YOU, jen.lemen (not me) are the one with the heart, soul, energy and talent.
April 8th, 2008 at 10:25 am
Wow, the things that can happen!
April 8th, 2008 at 10:38 am
And she’s off……
going to the places that need her gifts the most.
You are amazing my friend.
April 8th, 2008 at 10:40 am
I’ve never commented before but have been so touched and inspired by your words that I couldn’t resist this time. I found myself wishing there was a way of supporting your trip while reading this post and was so happy to find the button at the end. It’s a very small contribution but it made me delighted to be a part of this, so my thanks to you. Much love and good luck xoxo
April 8th, 2008 at 11:11 am
I’ve already said it, but I’ll say it again… I’m so excited for the light you will bring to Rwanda! I can’t think of a better person to send.
Love you
Krystyn
April 8th, 2008 at 11:27 am
Jen,
I have often told you that you have the spirit of a compassionate Queen of some distant land from long, long ago. This trip is the next step in you understanding who you truly are, and the power within you to bring positive change to this sometimes unfair world.
Be empowered. Be wise. And most of all be careful!
You have to know that the Elemental Interactive and ListenShare team are down for whatever Jen is doing. We will add to the tip jar before the end of the week.
Mad respect and much love,
James
PS - we are interested in covering some of the cost for the books as well.
April 8th, 2008 at 11:42 am
It will happen.
April 8th, 2008 at 12:10 pm
I’ve linked to your blog.
April 8th, 2008 at 12:42 pm
peace be with you Jen Lemen!
And…is it just me, or do these third graders of ours just grow up this year? My son looks so much older at this point of the year than he did just in Sept. Madeline looks so grown up in that photo!
April 8th, 2008 at 1:12 pm
I’m in. Spread the love, and tell us all about it when you get back.
April 8th, 2008 at 1:16 pm
Hope you have a great trip - it looks like you’ll be going after all!
April 8th, 2008 at 2:00 pm
Oh, My Goodness…Go Jen, Go jen, Go Jen….
I am in, too…can we spread this around???
April 8th, 2008 at 2:19 pm
i’m crying, guys!!! you are all the best!
April 8th, 2008 at 2:34 pm
YAY!!!!
http://www.flickr.com/photos/maypapers/2399239804/
April 8th, 2008 at 2:34 pm
so happy to be able to contribute to this adventure that will impact you and so many others. what an ambassador of hope you are. you inspire me in so many ways and many days give me the hope and push i need to try to live a more fulfilled and hopefilled life. thanks for being a burst of sunshine.
April 8th, 2008 at 2:56 pm
Thank you for sharing this with us, you are truly a gift and an inspiration. I’ve been reading and following your blog for awhile, of course I’ll contribute and look forward to reading all about your wonderful journey.
April 8th, 2008 at 3:05 pm
“I promise I will be taking care of your kids while you look after mine.” Breaks my heart wide open. Thank you. What a joy to take part in building connection of hope with Rwanda. We couldn’t have a better emissary.
April 8th, 2008 at 3:16 pm
Bravo, Jen. I am so proud to support you and Odette. I cannot wait to read about your trip.
And Odette — we’re pulling for you, brave woman. You and your family.
April 8th, 2008 at 4:42 pm
You are both truly an inspiration!
April 8th, 2008 at 5:52 pm
wow! i am so inspired by you & odette; i just had to contribute what little i could.
April 8th, 2008 at 7:08 pm
What an exciting and scary adventure for you. I admire your courage and Odette’s. Be safe, do well.
April 8th, 2008 at 7:14 pm
you GO girl! best wishes and safe travels!
April 8th, 2008 at 7:32 pm
I’ve just read the PDF about your plan. Go, girl! Go! I wish you every success in this venture. You are doing wonderful things.
Have you heard of the Tahirih Justice Centre? http://www.tahirih.org/tahirih/about/staff.html
They do advocacy work for wome in situations like Odette’s. It might be helpful.
April 8th, 2008 at 8:15 pm
Thank you so much for giving me the oppurtunity to help and be a small part of your important work. You have such courage, it is inspiring. I had a hard day today for no particular reason and knowing that you are out in the world seeking, helping and hoping takes the edge off.(I just read this and I’m wondering if anyone might want to measure my ego? I’m going to leave it though because its true.)Blessings on your work, kudos for your courage, and strength for your adventure!
April 8th, 2008 at 8:58 pm
I had to check in again tonight and I’m so freaking tickled to see that Chipin widget filling the heck up. yeah!
April 8th, 2008 at 9:28 pm
Jen, I laugh at how reading a blog makes me feel like we’re friends! So, friend, kudos to you, and have a powerful trip. I’m happy you gave us the opportunity to chip in.
April 8th, 2008 at 10:03 pm
I’ll look for you at the airport!
April 8th, 2008 at 10:45 pm
Go Jen, Go! What a great post and what a beautiful adventure you’re about to have. By the way, are you taking any other donations with you? Clothing, books, etc? best, m
April 8th, 2008 at 10:51 pm
1. Girl, would you just take a minute and look around at all the love and courage you’ve grown here. Yay!
2. I love Mike. Not many dudes would show up around all this Girl Power
April 8th, 2008 at 11:03 pm
Does this symbol at the end of your post mean that you have already raised all the money???!!! Amazing.
April 8th, 2008 at 11:52 pm
Keep the money coming. Jen will know what to do with any extra…
(Ah Wilsonian, you know me too well!)
April 9th, 2008 at 12:35 am
You are amazing and inspiring and the world needs more of you. I am honoured and inspired even to know you.
April 9th, 2008 at 1:23 am
This is it - you’ve been ready for this for as long as I’ve been listening to your heart. Yay! I couldn’t think of a better woman to do this trip, this work. My little contribution is going in the bucket right now.
April 9th, 2008 at 7:51 am
My dear Jen,
You truly deserve this trip. What an amazing opportunity you have. I am so glad that you are so brave to ask all of us for some help. And my goodness, look at how you have rallied the troops. It brings tears to my eyes to see how “human” and “kind” we can be as individuals for one another. We can accomplish so much when we come together. I am glad that my contribution was able to put you one step closer to your dream. Best of luck my dear!! I cannot wait to hear all about it.
April 9th, 2008 at 8:01 am
What a wonderful opportunity for you! I can’t wait to hear about it. I wish I could help, but right now I’m concerned about grocery money.
April 9th, 2008 at 8:38 am
so excited to hear about this lovely and beautiful and sure-to-bring-so-much-hope adventure! i am glad you’re just going for it. you’ll have a lot of people going with you in spirit!
April 9th, 2008 at 9:21 am
I wish I could contribute more than this. Channeling girl power through you, Jen!
April 9th, 2008 at 10:56 am
Hey Mike’s not the only one unafraid of being outnumbered by the girls. Jen, I’m delurking to say God go with you. Can I ask what is standing in the way of getting Odette back to see her kids? Money always seems like an obstacle, but surely a further $2000 is easy enough to raise if that’s all that stands in her way. Can we help with that or is there an immigration issue?
April 11th, 2008 at 9:28 am
@david: I know a little more than Jen is able to say here, and I believe it simply would not be possible for Odette to return to Rwanda right now. But that would be amazing and is a fantastic idea!
@jen: I just have to ask… what would it take to get Odette’s girls over here? Can I/we help financially, or with paperwork or research?
April 11th, 2008 at 9:29 am
p.s. OMFG! I just realized how high your donation pool is!!!!!! You’re gonna go!
April 11th, 2008 at 10:54 am
Oh, Jen! I am so excited for you…You inspire me more than I can say!
April 11th, 2008 at 1:23 pm
Many blessings on the trip! I’d also like to know how we might be able to help reunite Odette with her daughters.
April 21st, 2008 at 8:52 am
My darling Jen and Odette, I have just been and contributed to this wonderful adventure. I am sorry I didn’t do it sooner but I have had so much going on that I wasn’t even aware of it until I spoke to Meg on the phone today. I am so grateful to be able to offer some small amount that may just help a little. You have been so wonderful helping me with the Auction for my cancer expenses so now this has given me a chance to give something in return, I am thrilled about this project and send you light, love and strength with all of my heart. Love to all those involved in making this happen. Jen Ballantyne xxxx
April 21st, 2008 at 10:52 am
[…] master new skills. The Me who thinks that my timetable and my demands are reasonable (let’s go to Rwanda and illustrate a book before we go! all in three weeks!) even when all the information available […]
April 21st, 2008 at 3:14 pm
Jen, I really enjoy reading you.
Wonderful initiative, will send a small contribution through Fatou, since you will know what to do with any extra
Wish you the best on your trip!
April 24th, 2008 at 8:15 am
[…] and want to help us get the book into as many little hands as possible. You can read about it here (and still give if you want in on the excitement–every penny from here on out will go towards […]
April 27th, 2008 at 11:00 am
[…] might be going to Africa in May.” my first thought was, “Of COURSE you are.” These things happen to and for Jen, because she’s dangerously compassionate; because this is her creed; […]
April 27th, 2008 at 9:17 pm
[…] Jen Lemen wandered about all night with her magical camera, while I held down the dance floor with Odette, the beautiful Madeline and other children and friends. But we will need to wait to get the […]
May 3rd, 2008 at 1:07 pm
[…] from the upcoming zine “Let’s Learn How To Help Ourselves and Others” by Odette, illustrations by me. I’ll take at least 1000 copies of this book to schools in Rwanda in May on my visit to see Odette’s girls thanks to your contributions. details here. […]
May 6th, 2008 at 5:37 pm
[…] about walking down the street loosened it and I had the welcome release of a good cry. I guess it all began here, with the story of Odette, a woman separated from her daughters in Rwanda. This is a story […]
May 8th, 2008 at 2:36 am
[…] that have inspired me to try to move outside of my little circle, for a greater good. Finding Jen’s blog was truly a gift, a blessing. Talk about moving outside of your circle, she truly embodies the […]
May 23rd, 2008 at 6:13 pm
[…] Earlier today, I donated to this trip, to help distribute this zine in Rwanda. I just happened across that blog today for the first time, […]
June 10th, 2008 at 6:15 pm
[…] check out Jen Lemen’s journey to and from Africa. The latest part of the story starts around here where you can scroll up for a bit and then go to Feel The Fear And Do It Anyway. Read on and […]
June 12th, 2008 at 1:38 am
[…] yes! It was from the also beautiful Jen Lemen. You can read more about this particular project here. And here. And here and here and here and here and here and here (etc.). The woman is […]
June 18th, 2008 at 1:00 am
[…] also following Jen Lemen’s adventure to Rwanda. It all began here and now the trip is over and her stories from Rwanda are touching my heart and opening my eyes in […]
June 26th, 2008 at 8:31 am
[…] mid-April of 2008, I presented the idea to the readers of this blog and was greeted by an instant outpouring of love and support. By the first week of May, almost […]
July 14th, 2008 at 5:43 pm
Absolutely beautiful, stunning, inspiring. My only regret is that I did not find this blog in time to contribute myself. But, I too am on a odyssey to Rwanda and hope to contribute in my own way. I love your blog Jen… your words and your spirit are amazing. We are all brothers and sisters and I am proud to call you sister.
October 22nd, 2008 at 2:50 pm
[…] I went to Rwanda last spring in part, to collect Grace’s medical records and to see for myself how she was doing. What I found was a very dear girl who was doing her best to deal–even when it was clear to me that she didn’t have the right place to stay and was clearly not getting the kind of care she needed to recover. Solving that problem was complicated, but Odette and I were able to do it with the help of some very kind and caring people. Here’s a short list: […]