Mission Trip - Day 1
We spent our first day at Kingdom Vision International orphanage. This is the orphanage our dear friends, the Alexanders, got their first little boy from. As our vans drove in, the kids were so excited and swarmed around. They ran up and hugged and kissed us - so so beautiful. There are 85 children at this orphanage from infant to teenager and they were all amazing. After handing out Dum-Dums and bracelets and hugs and kisses, it was time to get down to business. Three dentist examined teeth and I got to work with a sweet friend in what we affectionately refer to as the 'hygiene hut'. I got to learn (and try to say) each child's name and then we gave them each a toothbrush, toothpaste and taught them how to brusha-brusha-brusha. IF they brush their teeth it is done on Weds, but since most of them didn't even know how to hold their toothbrush I doubt it happens too often. Their eyes lit up as if we had handed them a treasure! Some of them even walked around the orphanage brushing their teeth they were so excited. Some of the team painted the hallway and toddler room -- other played games of soccer and chase and others did crafts with the older kids and still others held and rocked babies. There was lots of holding and rocking and yes, I shed a few tears too. My heart hurts for these precious children that are so beautiful and so in need of and deserving of love. And my heart hurts because I know our little girl is so close but so far and I want to be holding her. I want her to know that we are coming for her, I want someone to love on her and hold her until we can get there !! It is a heartache that I can't explain --- I hurt for these children with no one to call mommy and daddy and I hurt for our little girl that doesn't know she has a mommy and daddy!! I hope someone with a child waiting at KVI knows that we loved on them until they can get there just as I pray someone is doing for our baby!!
Well, I got half-way through the first day and I haven't even explained the sheep slaughter on this day or touched on Day 2. We'll pick up at the sheep part tomorrow.
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I am so impressed with your update (and so moved) BEAUTIFUL!
ReplyDeletePraying for you all and your sweet, precious little one. I KNOW she knows she is loved. Miss you guys!
Jamey, listening to the Doxology on my iPod as I read your post. I cry for these children and for you as you all must wait for God's timing. Church seemed a bit empty this morning with so many of our people in Ethiopia. So many prayers are being lifted for you all...for courage, boldness, safety and peace. Hug a baby for me and tell that little one that Suzy sends her love. "Praise God above from whom all blessings flow." Suzy
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