Fun photo to kick things off...
After spending the morning at the school we were all walking back to the hostel when I came across one of the teachers going into the house next door to the orphanage. I recognized her as she has worked at Marshall School for about 6 years. When I said "hi" to her and commented that I didn't know she lived there she proceeded to invite me into her home. She was incredibly gracious and pleased that I would enter,
and I felt honored to be welcomed in.
After showing me around her modest home I began to thank her for her hospitality, but she was quick to cut me off, and that's when she said to me "You love us and you don't even know us. You provide an education to children and jobs to many, and you don't even know us. You travel from far away to visit us, and you don't even know us. It is you who deserves the thanks...thank you for loving us!" Needless to say we were both in tears at this point and embracing in a hug that knew no boundaries; our religious and cultural differences were irrelevant as we shared an unconditional love that overshadowed everything else...the desire to serve those less fortunate regardless of circumstances all in the name of LOVE. <3 font="" nbsp="">
We have always said when asked what we are going to do in India,
that we go there to build relationships; based on this encounter I would say
"mission accomplished". :)
After lunch we returned to the school to hand out the Greeting Cards from the sponsors;
what fun it is to see the looks on the children's faces when they see the personal photos within their cards, especially if it happens to be one of us!
Here are just a few shots of us with some of our sponsored kids...
Once school let out for the day, we had the opportunity to spend some time with the hostel children. This was the first chance we actually got to personally meet the new children, as well as reconnect with the kids we've gotten to know over the years.
As always, dancing with the gals was a hit...
Once everyone had enough dancing we sat them all down and told them about a woman back in West Bend whose aunt knew the Landowgals because they delivered 'meals on wheels" to her, and how she wanted to give something of hers to the children of India.
Imagine the excitement when we spread out 50 Beanie Babies for them each to choose from.
From the youngest to the oldest, these gifts were received with enthusiasm, as they really don't have special "toys" or "things" of their own...
We concluded our night at a house church where we were greeted with passion and pizza!! (Indian pizza that is)
After the travelers all sang to get things going, Olivia and Sophia both gave a little talk about using our unique gifts and worshiping through music. This was followed by offering individual blessings to all who wanted one.
I'm just going to take this opportunity to say how incredibly proud I am of all the travelers as they each have stepped out of their comfort zones to make this mission trip one that will be remembered with great satisfaction and a sense of personal growth.
Thanks to all those who have encouraged us along the way; we are privileged to serve
with your love and support carrying us onward.
Namaste'
~Jenny
