Swaziland
This month has been an incredible journey so far.
I have the blessing of serving in an amazingly beautiful country. Our view is breathtaking—every sunrise and sunset is unique and crafted so well. The stars shine so bright…and I’m pretty sure I’ve seen more stars each night here than I ever have in any other country I’ve been to.
I’ve been challenged in growing through a leadership opportunity as team leader for the Rohi Weebles. Our name represents the Lord as our Shepherd (Rohi) and the childhood toy that is impossible to keep down (Weebles Wobble but they don’t fall down).
Working at an orphanage has been a blessing. To wake up to the laughter of the children. To play in the dirt with the boys, and chat with the girls. To color and draw. To tickle and cuddle.
Hiking in the mountains of Swaziland reminds me of the mountains of North Carolina. It is also an exciting activity to do with children who are busting with energy and excitement to explore life.
Teaching 2nd grade English at the Primary School has been a challenging ministry. The class is busting with 44 children ranging from 7 to 10 years old. Although they can be rambunctious, they are eager to learn and sweet children. We are working on short vowel sounds and this next week we start long vowel sounds. Some of the children are still working on holding the book with the right side up, while others can read the books independently. As a teacher from the States, it is incredibly difficult to not have limited resources, an old copying machine, chalkboards, no Internet, and no pencil sharpeners. Appreciating the unlimited resources from the web and also libraries with hundreds and thousands of books at my fingertips is just the beginning.
Jaden is one of the homeschool students, and I work with him during the English block. He is so dedicated and hardworking. He is behind in his reading abilities for his age, but I can see his willingness to grow and develop. I love his smile and gentle spirit.
Spending time with the kids brings so much joy to me. I love teaching them about making friendship bracelets, but at the same time learning how to make a new design from them. I also love seeing them create and design different things as they draw. God’s creativity is shown in each of their personalities.
Team Rohi Weebles: Aly, Jen, Joy, Mercy, Tori, and Victoria
Prayers:
- Unity of team—submitted to His authority, willingness to be vulnerable, boldness to encourage and edify each other
- Serving the ministries well—the orphanage, the school, the children
- Physical health—finding time to rest, migraines with vertigo
- Teachable spirit—continue to release my self to His leading, obedience in all areas
- Making the most of every opportunity—with teammates, the children or ministry contacts
