When Bloodlines Meet: Our Time in Kwekwe 🌊

And just when we thought this journey couldn’t possibly get any better, it led us to Kwekwe, Zimbabwe—and our hearts were forever changed.

In Kwekwe, Denise, Wayne, and I had the blessing of staying at the home of our Zimbabwean sister, Margaret, where we were embraced not only by her hospitality but also by family we had yet to meet—her brother, Alexander, and his son, Shawn. Even before arriving, the drive itself felt like an introduction to daily life. We watched women skillfully balancing baskets of fruit and vegetables on their heads, babies wrapped securely on their backs with cloths, and people moving with purpose through their day. These were scenes that many only see on television, but here they unfolded right before us on the local streets of Kwekwe.

What struck us most was the work ethic. Much like back home in the United States, the people of Kwekwe were hardworking and striving for a better life. We saw children walking together to school in their uniforms, adults selling fruits, vegetables, and everyday goods, and communities functioning with a rhythm rooted in tradition. There was something refreshing about it all—Kwekwe felt grounded, holding tight to its customs and values, not yet overtaken by the rush of Western consumerism.

Our time at Sister Margaret’s home was filled with warmth and connection. We broke bread over a lovingly prepared chicken meal, shared stories, and learned more about Alexander and Shawn. As we talked and laughed, it became impossible to ignore the similarities—our eyes, cheeks, noses. There was no doubt about it. We were family.

Kwekwe itself carries a powerful story. Located in central Zimbabwe, it is a historic city known for its resilience, industry, and cultural depth. Long recognized as a mining and steel hub, Kwekwe has played an important role in Zimbabwe’s economic history while remaining deeply connected to community, faith, and ancestral roots. It is a place where perseverance and tradition live side by side.

We spent several nights at Margaret’s beautiful home before meeting even more family members—and that moment was truly unforgettable. What we thought would be a small gathering quickly grew as more aunts, cousins, and relatives arrived, one after another. The love was undeniable. It reminded me of when Margaret visited us in South Carolina—by the time introductions were finished, the restaurant was wall-to-wall with family, as if they had arrived by the busload. That day brought Margaret and her husband, Martin, so much joy—and now, here in Kwekwe, we felt that same joy returned to us.

And this was only the beginning.

I can’t wait to tell you what it felt like to meet even more aunts, cousins, and extended family in Kwekwe—what was said, what was felt, and how deeply it all touched our hearts.

Stay tuned!