Hello to our dear family and friends. I told Meg I would do the blog tonight because, as a newcomer to this mission, I had to tell you that I am experiencing a life changing adventure. I had listened to many of the people who have come before, but I now know why they said that it was hard to explain the feelings they have about Estrada. Each morning I wake to the excitement of returning to the village, the villagers, and, MOST OF ALL, the amazing and precious children. Tomorrow will be a difficult day. Lynne, my sister, and I are concerned that the children we are packing to bring back may make too much noise or make our bags over 50 pounds! I wonder if children have to have a passport to leave Costa Rica. Adoption takes too long, and we are having trouble with their parents. Some people just won't let go! Michelle, I am bringing Deyner and we may have to share custody!!
Some of the beautiful children of Estrada
Today was a short day because we were travelling to Limon to visit the school where Rev. Irma Watson is now the principal. She was at our service on Sunday. It was a memorial service to honor the 10th anniversary of her father's death. During his life, he was a beloved person of Santiago. After visiting, St. Mark's School, we visited her church, San Marcos, in Limon. It was a charming and welcoming place, but needs much work. We were touched by the very young children in the back of the church who were learning English. As you can see in the picture below, SOME of the students were worn out!
Sleepy head John and his little buddy
Although we enjoyed our little excursion, we all agreed that we would have rather stayed in Estrada and work and teach. It is where our hearts are!
I must tell you how proud you would be if you saw the HARD work that is being done. I am in awe of our friends who are digging the trenches day after day. I have gone out to dig a few times, but for some reason they hide the shovels. That is fine, because my heart is filled daily with smiles, hugs and little blessings. I can still sweat in the Parish Hall. I must say that the language barrier with the children has been frustrating. It amazes me how patient they are with those of us teaching. We are especially touched by the way these children take care of each other. Each day we leave, I thank God for bringing us to this wonderful mission. As we pass the children on the street, waving and smiling, knowing that they will be wandering around, we see what God wants us to do. Soon, these children will be safe, will learn many new things, and know that the entire building is wrapped in love from the people of Emmanuel Church. Thanks be to God!
Oh, by the way, we all have a great recipe for rice and beans!!!
Written By: Sandy Lampros
No comments:
Post a Comment