I've been here for five months now, much of it spent by myself trying to navigate this world on my own. At times, it's been lonely and frustrating and did I mention...hard?! Much more so than I ever thought it would be (and really, how is that possible?) I have missed my friends. My church. My family. I have nine beautiful nieces and nephews, and I am missing moments and milestones. And sometimes, I wonder, what am I doing here? (Don't worry...I've been told that's normal for missionaries. Thank goodness.)
And then, I am brought back to these kids. How is this country going to change? One heart at a time. These kids have a love and joy and peace that is unmistakably different than the world around them. They are the hope for a nation that is suffocating in darkness.
I wish you could see the transformation from the moment these kids arrive at the orphanage to a few months later. They go from scared and shy and downcast to smiling and joyful and loving. It really is remarkable to see. My heart aches to be able to talk with them and to share with them how beautiful they are and how much they are loved.
I am, by nature, an emotional person. But, it makes me want to weep to see them play and get to be kids. To watch them eat seconds or thirds at meal times. To have them run up and hug me. To hear them laugh and see them smile. All of which would not have happened had they not come to live at the Asia's Hope orphanages.
Just take a look at these faces...
Beautiful, aren't they?
The hard part is that there are so many more where these children came from.
But...one heart at a time.
That's why I am here.
Thanks for helping to make that possible.
6 comments:
You're one of my heroes, Jen! Thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you for all you're doing for these precious children!!
Love you! Praying for you! I can't even imagine how hard it is to do what you do.
Well done, you good and faithful servant!!
Thank you. Thank you. Thank you.
you are such an amazing blessing to those children, thanks Jen!
I am sitting here reading this thinking I just want to come through the wires and give you a big hug.
I really appreciate all you do - with the kids and with this blog and your communication to the other side of the world. You are right it is one heart at a time and God is using you to make it possible.
Jen, I really do know how hard it is there and I can only imagine how lonely you've been in the 5 mos., but don't EVER wonder if you are doing the right thing. You have been hand picked by our heavenly father to do this important work and you are every bit as special to those children as they are to you! I will continue to pray heartily for you.
Jen, thank you for your willingness to serve our Lord and love on those kids!! No matter where you are, you are reaching and touching the lives of people all around you with that gorgeous smile of yours and and light that radiates from within that no one can deny if they are willing to look!! Hang in there! :)
You are doing a great great job, my dear!
Can't wait to see you in May!!!!!
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