Let me just start by saying that this mission trip has been a such blessing to me. Getting a chance to interact with and impact the lives of the children at the New Life Youth Camp, and in my case, the kids at the Union Mission's Youth Center as well, is so amazing. Believe it or not, these "at-risk" kids are no different than us; they just lack some much needed attention from their parents and adults.
While the camp is hosting the 5th and 6th graders this week, the Youth Center at the Union Mission does not forget about kids of all other ages. Everyday a different age group comes to the Youth Center. Instead of working at camp in the 100 degree weather, I get the privilege of working with in the nice air conditioning. Group AC! :]
Anywho, Tuesday was my first real day of working at the Youth Center. We got to hang out with the youngest kids, the 1st and 2nd graders. I was super excited to be with the little ones: they always love you and accept you and trust you no matter what. I met the sweetest little girls, Anhelica and Jania, who both immediately took me by the hand and clung to me the entire time.
Today was the 7th and 8th grade day at the Youth Center. Group AC was a little bit worried about the huge age jump from the day before. We were afraid that the middle school kids wouldn't be as open and accepting to us as the younger ones. But surprisingly, the boys and girls did not show any attitude toward our group and were just as welcoming as the youngins. I even got my hair done by a girl named Fantasia! :D
All in all, I'm very happy that God has given me the opportunity to come on this trip, to touch the lives of these children, and to have such a wonderful experience unlike any other. I think I have learned more from these kids than they have from me. Listening to their stories has made me realize how fortunate I am to have such a loving and caring family back home.
I love and miss you all. See you Saturday!
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