When we first walked in, I was a little overwhelmed. In each country I have attempted to learn at least a few phrases in the nation’s language so that I can communicate with the people. Here it is a little different. I have discovered that it is much easier for me to pick up spoken language then sign language. So here I am in the middle of a playground full of deaf students mentally practicing “What is your name?” in Romanian sign language hoping that the alphabet is similar and that I can remember how to ask them to sign slowly.
I stand there for a moment trying to figure out how to get started when a small girl comes and grabs my hand and leads me over to a group of children playing frisbee. My concerns about not being able to communicate are wiped away in an instant. I just began playing with the kids and pouring out love to them. These kids have stolen my heart!
The highlight of my day is arriving at the school and having Sorin run up and give up a HUGE hug, giving high fives to the boys from Max’s class, and having Chrisitna smile from ear to ear as she leads me off to play the hand clapping games that I taught her earlier this week. I have loved learning small bits of Romanian sign language and being able to talk to the kids a little more.
I have spent every afternoon at this residential deaf school just playing games and getting to know the children. We play games during their free time, sit with them as they work on their homework, eat dinner together, play more games, and have been able to see where they live (the kids are so proud to give you a tour of their room and show you where each one sleeps). We have come in just to be a part of their lives and to show them love. We want them to know that they are loved extravagantly and unconditionally and in that way give them a glimpse of God’s heart towards them. They, in return, have really welcomed us into their lives and their families.
Stay tuned for more on our experience here!
