Month one of The World Race seems like an eternity ago. It was a month of adventure, joy, and confusion (as I tried to determine what I had gotten myself into). That month I also fell in love. One family in particular captured my heart.
I saw Analiza (Lisa) and her children, Arpul and Alliah, daily. The kids were shy during the first week, hiding behind their mom. By the end of the second week, Arpul was the life of the party, and he quickly became my best friend on the island. Sara and I went multiple times to hang out with Lisa at their small home near the church and she gladly gave us hair wraps during our final week. I must have taken at least 200 pictures of Lisa’s kids throughout the month – and our last day in The Philippines I gave them some of the photos.
Two months ago I received a letter from Lisa at my parents house in Michigan. I was finally able to get it translated this week and wanted to share it with all of you! A picture of the letter is below, with a translation immediately following!
Good Friend: Jessica
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all and same to Ate Sara, Ann, Raquel, and Kuya Francis and Peter. How are you all doing? We miss you all very much and also Arpaul is asking when you will be coming back to Aninuan so you can all play. I wanted to thank you for the true beautiful and nice friendship you all made with my son Arpaul.
Ate Jessica, I want to thank you for all the help you gave us and prayers everyday. You know when we began to know you more we grew deeper in knowing God and we especially want to continue to serve because of how you are serving and inspired us to be devoted to the Lord.
Ate Jessica, is it okay that we have a picture of you all because I want to see a picture of everyone.
Sister Jessica, we will be waiting for your return here so that we can all be together again. I miss going and having church with all of us together. I hope you are able to understand this letter.
God Bless and I love you all.
With Love, (names)
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This letter displays what this journey is all about. We show up, we serve, and we inspire others. I look forward to the day when I get to return to Puerta Galera to be reunited with Lisa and her beautiful family!
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SUPPORT UPDATE:
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Alex is still in need of around $1,000 before the end of April (over $300 has already been given!) You can give by clicking the Donate button below!
