As we pulled into our African cottage (appropriately deemed the 1864 Irish cottage), I didn’t think its charm or surrounding hills could cheer me up. I was emotionally spent and ready to give up. I had thoroughly enjoyed my time in Cambodia and could not imagine another country surpassing its charisma.
After arriving, we toured our new home and school that we’d be working in – all filled with cheerful, energetic children, ages ranging from 4 to 18. Their fields are complete with soccer nets, baby cows, sheep, donkeys and crops. There are rolling mountains all around us and skies as blue as the ocean. It looks like a Thomas Kincade painting. But it still didn’t cheer me up.
Mama Catherine (our contact/house mother), invited us to worship with the kids. We walked across the field, towards the beating of drums and children’s laughter. I think we all could feel it – the excitement and anticipation of African worship! Some team members even shed a few tears. I had goose bumps, but still, my mind was elsewhere. I was still hurting inside, and couldn’t quite pull myself together to take in this ridiculous, God given moment.
Then I met my kids.
When I say my kids, I mean it… they’re my students. I am now an official 2nd grade teacher. Yes, they constantly test my patience, but they are filled with so much happiness, that I can’t help but smile at them. They remind me to find joy in the little things… for instance, a bottle of glue, plastic grocery bag, ripped up textbook, ¼ a piece of chalk, two mismatched shoes… these are all coveted items around here. These kids don’t have TV, internet or even the radio. They don’t have toys. They have reading materials, church and chores. That is their life – and they love it. They love it because they are off the streets. They love it because they are provided for. They are given three meals a day. They have actual beds and a roof over their heads. They have a safe Christian community. Oh yea, and they have Jesus.
Then it hit me. Why I am wallowing around? I need to be thankful. For everything! For the emotional stuff I’m going through; for Kenya; for these kids; for my awesome team; for my loving family and friends; for my loyal supporters; for the food on the table; for clean water; for a roof; for Jesus’ pursuit of me; for EVERYTHING. Because whether things are going well, or bad, God can use it. He can transform any pain or hardship into something glorious. I mean, just ask one of these sweet orphaned kids…
I have been so inspired by my student’s faith. They have forced me to take a step back, look at my life and what really matters. They have reminded me to have hope. Hope in the Lord. Hope in all that He has planned for me. Why do I worry about things so much? Why do I stress about the future? Why?? I need to be thankful for TODAY. And I’ve noticed, by thanking God for little things around me, He has restored my joy. I feel alive again – rejuvenated, if you will. He has restored my passion for Him and His people. So great!
So… what are you thankful for TODAY? Post it here so we can all rejoice in thanksgiving together!
The little ones on the right, Eugine and Beth, are two of my favorite students
I love sheep.
Precious, on the right, is one my students.
Some of my team snuggling. Did I mention that it's freezing here??
