I wake up to the sound of roosters. Walking outside, the children at the orphanage run to give us big hugs before sitting us down at the breakfast table. Our host sets out coffee for us, so we sip it while enjoying the stillness of the moment.
Our days consist of two English classes, where we work on the alphabet and spelling with our students. They listen so intently and work hard, writing down everything we say. When we give the kids the option of taking a break to play a game or staying in school, they always choose school, which warms my heart and hopefully means we’re doing something right.
But everyone’s favorite part of the day is right after school is over and it’s time for soccer! We walk to the rice fields hand in hand and prepare ourselves for an intense game, where the kids are invincible and my team is sweaty, tired, and bruised by the end of it. It’s a sweet time, though. The children are overjoyed whether they win or lose, and will just randomly tackle us with hugs during the game. Meanwhile, the sun is setting over the beautiful landscape and the air gets cooler. It’s at this time that everything is perfect and my heart is content.
There’s nothing fancy about life here. Seven of us sleep on the floor in one small room, swatting at bugs and trying to stop sweating by sitting in front of the fan. We use a squatty potty, have inconsistent WiFi, and check each other for lice every other day. Sometimes it’s really hard and frustrating. But I have never felt a joy like this. A joy that is rooted in the Lord and my love for my team. A joy that only little kid snuggles can bring, that comes when they kiss you on the cheek and tell you they love you after only one week.
The simplicity of this month is sweet and refreshing. It’s forcing me to be totally present, since social media and Netflix aren’t an option. It’s giving my soul time to rest, to take a break from all of the pressure and chaos of life at home. It’s reminding me of what’s really important in my life and who I am in the Lord.
I am loving this life.
