This is a letter I wrote to one of my favorite friends I made while in Africa. Her name is Thalenta (But it call her tail, she calls me Chilli because Gillian was too hard to pronounce, for context clues Chilli in S’Swati is Belleh Belleh so that was also something she called me) She is ten years old, and just about the sweetest little lady I ever did meet. This is a letter I wrote out and gave to her on our last day at the care point but I typed it up to share with you all
Dear Thalenta (Tail),
What a special friend you have been to me throughout my time in Swaziland. You are such a silly friend and I will never forget you. I have so loved meeting your cats, running down to the store with you to get ice for 1 rand. When you somehow manage to push me in the wheelbarrow. Your laugh is from God. I hope you know that. Remember that light I was telling you about that radiates from our souls when you have God in your heart? Well never forget the light that comes from your heart. I see it in you every day. In your dancing and joy and laughter. You never deny a friend and that is something from God. You, my sweet girl, are such a gift. I am sad that I only got to know you for three months and I hope to see you again. I can’t promise that I will so instead here are some things that I want you to promise me you will never stop doing:
-Always rejoice in the Lord. Sing the song, shout it from the hilltops
-Look for ways to love your friends. Little ways like the ways you loved me, show them your cats, run with them, laugh with them
-Dance in the rain at least one time
-Never forget that your joy comes from the Lord
-Your dreams are never out of reach
I love you my friend. I will keep you on my heart and in my prayers forever.
Your Friend,
Chili (Belleh Belleh)
