This is Fatos, he is the Albanian grandfather I never had. He is the group leader we've been assigned to during our stay at Light Force summer camps. He's been a coach for over 20 years. I've never seen a man so loving and caring towards the kids here. During the week most of our activity rotations have to do with sports, crafts or learning new things. Most of the teachers just let the kids play tennis or golf. Fatos on the other hand does drills with the kids so that they can learn good technique so they can play better at home.
He's also took the time to teach us along with the kids. He's really excepted us as part of the group here. when he's not with the kids he'll come over and try to have conversations with us in albanian. He is a pro with hand gestures, its the cutest thing to watch. All you can do is smile and say po meaning yes.
I've learned so much about love by watching this man interact with the kids and us. He's so open and willing to make relationships with us. Even with the language barrier. On the last day Chandler (my team leader) gave Fatos a note we all signed along with a Bible of the New Testament. Telling him that this was a living book and reading it would make him even wiser of a man. With tears in his eyes Fatos promised to read the book.
He taught me so much during our time together, I pray that in return my new Albanian grandfather will take away the immense love of our heavenly father.
p.s. This picture was taken in Tirana, Fatos was our tour guide for the day and let me ride his bike=]
