My last days in Nepal were so busy and so enjoyable. I was able to spend more time with the Missionaries of Charity - making beds, doing laundry and hanging clothes out to dry - a familiar routine I now find very comforting. The MCs are truly amazing and it was a pleasure to have time with them.
Saturday was our last play day - throwing frisbees, running around outside, taking turns reading stories, and a bee hunt. One of the children had been stung by a bee on Friday evening so we successfully found and removed four beehives. The older boys were great assistants.
The children take turns teaming up and picking up litter around and in front of the home. They have a bit of difficulty with this as people make fun of them and have no interest in picking up their own garbage. I joined the team and we had some fun. I was surprised by how many people just stopped and watched us - they clearly thought we were nuts and found what we were doing quite humorous. People across the street and in front of the entrance to the home, actually sat in chairs laughing and watching us. We invited all to join us, let them know how proud we were of our home, and that we wanted to take care of our home and the land. The children know they are helping to educate others and that it will definitely take some time for others to see the benefits.
That evening the children performed another dance recital for me. They were great! I tried recording their dances and was able to capture some of it. They really enjoy music and dancing, and are very good at their native Nepali dances along with current hip hop, ballywood and just moving to the music.
After a very enjoyable day, Bonnie, Sharda (one of the older girls) and I watched the movie Water. If you have not seen it, I highly recommend it. I believe it was filmed in Sri Lanka and takes place in the 1930's in India. It deals with the caste system and is a very tough, moving story.
On one of my last days, I rode the microbus (the van packed with 27 people) into town and sat next to a very young school girl. She spoke very good English and was delightful. She shared her chewing gum, introduced me to some of her school friends, showed me a sparkling wand that she was giving to her friend, told me she was an only child, and was just a pleasure to visit with. I was traveling a new route this day, new bus and wanted to confirm my directions with her. She happened to be departing at the same location. As we said goodbyes, she gave me a hug, and asked me never to forget her which I never will. Then as I turned and started to walk away, she and one of her friends ran up alongside me, took my hand, and led me through a bus station maze to get me on the right bus. Unbelievable! I share this story as it is one example of the many wonderful people I have been fortunate to meet along the way and who have taken the time to help me out.
My last days with the children were spent correcting and reviewing homework, listening to the children read stories and helping them out with their English pronounciation, taking in the views from the rooftop, and just enjoying time with each of them. The tears started when the children started to bring me homemade cards thanking me for my time - wow! I couldn't read the cards because I was a mess - so saved them all for the plane ride and can only imagine what the other passengers thought!! The cards as you can imagine, are just beaufitul!
I am so thankful to have had this time with Bonnie and her family of 36 children. I am so proud of each of the young girls and boys and how hard they are working on their education. And I can't wait to visit them again in the near future. I will remain in contact with them and will also be sending a box to them so if anyone wants to include anything, just let me know. When you have a chance, take a look at their website at www.ama-foundation.org. It will be undergoing some changes, although it is up and running.
I am writing this last posting from the USA as I have returned safely and am enjoying the comforts of home (beef, a hot shower, lettuce, clean tap water) for a couple of weeks. My next travels will take me to South Africa which I am waiting for the final details before I know my exact date of departure.
Thank you all for your support, prayers and emails while I have been volunteering - you gave me many a lift when it was needed. I really enjoyed hearing what was happening back home, you sharing similar experiences, and just being able to share the beauty, heartache and smiles along the way. Please tune in again late July for my next tour of service. God Bless You!!
Wow! What a way to end the trip - that was so sweeeeeeet! It's been so incredible to read your blog and see your pix from the first part of your journey. Thank you so much for allowing your loved ones to tag along for the joy-ride and share in your wonderful experience.
Your break back home to freshen up a little (load up on beef and hot showers) is very much deserved.
Can't wait until you start part two of your journey in South Africa, so that everyone can jump back on board with you again and continue the joy-ride! Whee!
You are sooooo loved my dear : )
Posted by: Yui Chan | July 11, 2007 at 06:02 AM