From Madeline:
I am definitely starting to miss my family and friends. I think about everyone a lot. Today as we visited the orphanage I realized these kids find hope and faith in the simplest things. Like a balloon. I think the situation of the entire country has sunk in. It is extremely hard to find words to explain how I feel. I want to understand how people live like this but I don't think I ever will. I know it is the only thing they have ever known but still it doesn't make sense. My heart is starting to ache for these people. We live at the school and have had the opportunity to talk to the students about their future plans. A lot of them want to go to college and be successful. A few days ago I saw these dreams as inspiring but today I think I realized these kids will barely get the chance to fulfill their dreams. One thing that I do know is even though these kids might not have the life I want for them they are happy. Every time I step into a classroom or a little kid sees me I get showered with hugs. It is hard for me to understand how a child can live in a hut, barely eat, and yet show a complete stranger such unconditional love. It is something unexplainable. I want to be happy for these children because of their happiness but I just can't stop thinking about their future. For now I am having difficulty with these things.
I am definitely starting to miss my family and friends. I think about everyone a lot. Today as we visited the orphanage I realized these kids find hope and faith in the simplest things. Like a balloon. I think the situation of the entire country has sunk in. It is extremely hard to find words to explain how I feel. I want to understand how people live like this but I don't think I ever will. I know it is the only thing they have ever known but still it doesn't make sense. My heart is starting to ache for these people. We live at the school and have had the opportunity to talk to the students about their future plans. A lot of them want to go to college and be successful. A few days ago I saw these dreams as inspiring but today I think I realized these kids will barely get the chance to fulfill their dreams. One thing that I do know is even though these kids might not have the life I want for them they are happy. Every time I step into a classroom or a little kid sees me I get showered with hugs. It is hard for me to understand how a child can live in a hut, barely eat, and yet show a complete stranger such unconditional love. It is something unexplainable. I want to be happy for these children because of their happiness but I just can't stop thinking about their future. For now I am having difficulty with these things.
I know you have mixed feelings right now. At times you feel that you have so much and they so little. You have been given gifts of the Holy Spirit, and that's what you use every time you interact with someone on this mission. You are also open to so much more, when you let them teach you. Be grateful for your life and set boundries, not letting their situation bring you down. That is very important when working with others that have struggles in life.
ReplyDeletePs tell kyle we love him and know that he has been blest with gifts of the Holy Spirit, all of you have as evident by you sharing your thoughts with us. I wish I was there with you to be apart of this amazing spritual experience. Kyle blog home! Love mom
ReplyDeleteMadeline...you have such a big loving heart. Those little kids will remember you and the other Heelan team. You are giving them so much love and hugs, that is all they want. see you soon. Give Paul a hugs from us. Love Carol
ReplyDeleteSo much to learn from those who we think are less fortunate....a lesson to keep life simple with faith in our hearts and always ready to share Gods love to friends-old and new. We miss all of you and are so proud of how you too share unconditional love. Keep working hard, praying and giving hugs! God Bless you and we absolutely can't wait to see you! Love Mary(Mom:)
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