This is a follow up to my last blog (http://annakawelty.theworldrace.org/post/i-want-to-go-home)
After Mamaw passed, I had the chance to talk to my parents for probably the longest block of time I've been able to since the start of the race. We got to remember Mamaw, tell stories of our lives right now, and just share all the things you want to share when death comes.
They got to see the kids at the church pop in and out of the screen. Some of the children introduced themselves or asked what their names were. Others just plopped in my lap or next to me and stared at the video. A few even asked my parents what the names of various objects were in English. It was so good to get to see those kids fascinated by my parents and interacting with them, even if through a screen, while oceans apart.
All of that made me happy but happiness is fleeting. So yesterday I kept praying for the joy I knew God could give. The comfort that would take away the desire to go home or the guilt of choosing to stay. I asked Him to let me see Him by my side, to take away the valley if possible or to let me see where He was walking with me in it.
Yesterday was one of my favorite days on the race so far. Almost daily we spend time at the church and hang out with the kids. Some of them are too young for school, and others arrive around 4:30 when school lets out.
Around 5 we headed with the kids, both from the church and those who live in the nearby slums, to the soccer fields. It was so much fun to play with them. Their happiness and excitement was so contagious. They play with such energy, reminding me of when I refereed soccer in the states. We called it kick and run back then because the kids play with such enthusiasm and they end up just running in a sort of herd all around the field. It was so fun to be so far from home but see the same exact sort of play in these kids.
Each goal was met by sprints to team mates to give high fives and share in celebration. I couldn't have stopped smiling or laughing had I wanted to. We played until it got dark and then walked back to the restaurant where the church serves the kids from the slums dinner weekly. It's wonderful to see the church love them and serve them in tangible ways as best as they can afford to. I'm so grateful to have such a happy day, especially following the darkness and sadness of the past week.
I'm not even going to say the valley has passed; I still need to get through the funeral and I'm sure not getting to celebrate Mamaw's life with the rest of the family will be hard. I still hate that I can't just call mom or that I'm not with her right now but that day and these kids are such a blessing for the now. God granted me peace and comfort when I asked for it, is walking me through this valley, and gave me proof of what I stayed for. I can't imagine missing one day with these kids and I'm so glad to be part of this ministry in some small way.
Below are some of the pictures of our play yesterday. I hope the kids bring a smile to your faces too.
Thank you again for all of the love and encouragement that you give me in general and that you sent after the earlier post.
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