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From the very beginning, the catch phrase for our team had been to be flexible. Really, that summarizes all the days that come and go on our mission to bring faith, love, and hope to these kids. It's day 6 and already I feel I have been here for a year. Not only did I have to step into the shoes of the kids by living how they are, but trials and hardships are around the corner constantly, Whether it's the language barrier, heat, sickness, or just being out of our comfort zones we've created at home. However, many hardships, according to God's word, mean many blessings, and this is how God lets us know what we're capable of when He is with us. At this point, God let us know that complaining is useless and only wastes time (according to Philippians), because we are here to serve.
The kids have been absolutely a blessing to us. What really excites me is seeing that passion and life in them when we hang out with them and hug them and play with them and laugh and joke and do their hair and hear their stories. The teacher in charge of my group of kids approached me and thanked our whole group for coming and spreading love to these kids because there are no words to describe their excitement when they await our vans pulling up in front of their orphanage. She also warned me that many tears and long embraces are to follow. Although we abandon them yet again, I hope these kids come to know someone that will never abandon them. So the sixth day has come to an end (no, tomorrow is not Sunday), and this year that I feel has passed for me has only been a couple of minutes to these kids.
– Ira