There is such a spirit of thanksgiving in this place. From our small church ministry, to our home in San Juan, to the people on the streets, there is love and appreciation. The smallest token on time or love is received as “the best thing in the world.” A simple smile is returned with an even greater smile and followed with a hug.
Adults smile at our feeble attempts to communicate, and laugh at our mimes. Kids laugh out loud in amusement as we butcher their language, yet are the most helpful and patient in their instruction. They appear grateful for playmates and students, perhaps even surpassing our own joy and appreciation for teaching.
“Work Hard, Play Harder” must have been coined after meeting Dominicans. They are diligent workers, seen up early in the morning and hearing of second jobs. Yet, it can not go without being said that these people know how to play! Yesterday (and hopefully everyday hereafter) we will play with the kids after school. We met at the church and were surprised when over 30 children showed up. They were bright eyed at the Americanos and not quite sure what to do about the words coming out of our mouths. Thank goodness for our ministers and their wives. They were not only helpful in defining the space as safe, but also showing me adults can play just as hard as the kids. There is no “oh, its ok, you don’t have to be out,” or “we are all winners” in this Mogollon after-school play time. When a game is set up, you know the rules and we all play fair. It is amazing how excited the kids get and how much they love, respect and enjoy the adults that play right along next to them! J Getting out or losing is just a signal that the game is over and there is now an opportunity to start again. It is refreshing to see children play so well and friendly teasing each other without malaise.
Our team was wiped when we returned last night. Our play session was roughly three hours of hot-potato, baseball, volleyball, hand clapping, giggling and spinning. I was even playing Spanish “Miss Mary Mac” with one child with another hanging on piggy back style, while another was trying to pick me up! Its just crazy; the kids just love us sooooo much for engaging with them. It is a face that love can break down barriers. For this and all else, I am eternally grateful for the gifts, miracles and blessings from the Lord.
