By Ann Yanchura

Confucius tells us to “study the past if you would define the future;” this is continual thread in the fabric of A to Z Literacy, and one of the many reasons why I’m honored to be a part of this organization. At this time two years ago, I was planning my lessons, collecting school supplies from my generous school colleagues at both Hannah Beardsley Middle and Indian Prairie Elementary Schools, and packing up for my first trip to Zambia.

Looking forward: View through our windshield on our way to Shine Reading Academy

By looking back while looking forward, I have learned a few lessons from all that planning: Continue to look to the future of our world by investing in the education of our young. Never underestimate the power of teachers. Always have a Plan B in both life and lesson plans. Time spent learning is never wasted. Be open to whatever and whomever comes your way because there is always something more for you to learn.

Looking back: Just one of the many beautiful memories of lessons learned

Note that in the first paragraph, I called the 2012 mission my “first” trip to Zambia; once you go, you will want to return over and over, and I’m looking forward to that. It’s no secret that I am both excited and jealous to follow the adventures of this year’s mission team of Mal, Pat, Betty, and Becky. I will always look back on the memories shared with our 2012 team made up of Mal, Stasia, Kalan, Mariann, and me as some of the best of my life. And to paraphrase both General Douglas MacArthur and the Terminator, I WILL RETURN to that magical and wonderful place in the future for more life lessons. No doubt about it.