It seems we've gotten to a point where everyday there is something new or different. It's definitely keeping us all on our toes.
We have entered the season of volunteers. For the next few months there will be many groups from all over the world coming in and out of Refilwe to serve for a few weeks at a time. The energy is going to be high and so many projects will be started and finished. I am looking forward to how things will change thanks to the contribution of our volunteers.
On a sadder note, as we welcome our new guests, we just said goodbye to two of our beloved long term volunteers who's time has come to go back home. Barbara was here for over a year. She ran the sewing program, English classes, computer classes and private lessons here and there. She has been nothing short of a blessing to so many people here and has definitely left her mark. We said goodbye two weeks ago. Johanna was here for 7 months and said our goodbyes yesterday. She worked very closely with the kids and was very involved in multiple activities. Things will not be the same without them. Both Barbara and Johanna became very close friends and family to me. It was not easy to say goodbye. I think the hardest part about it is that we honestly have no idea when we will see each other next. If ever. We built such deep relationships and bonds, but our lives back home are scattered over the earth. We would have never met if we didn't come here and we have no clue when or if we'll meet again. Of course it is in all of our plans to reunite someday. But no one knows what the future will hold. It's a hard reality to face. But all I can do is stay strong and keep moving. Thankfully with internet communication, there's no escaping me! MUAHAHA!!!
I am doing well, just staying busy doing the same things. Office work, making amazing coffee, homework, tap classes, computer classes, youth meetings and whatever else pops up in my day. I am still very happy with the work I am doing. The tap classes are so much fun and my little ones will be performing in a talent show next week that I am putting on. I will look into posting it on youtube! It's going to be so much fun. Homework has been incredibly rewarding. I have been working with three specific kids since August, and I have been able to see the progression. One girl impeticular has GREATLY improved and her marks are absolutely outstanding. A big change since last year. She has thanked me specifically for my help. It's moments like that when you completely forget about all of the frustrations and moments of impatience, and are so thankful for every minute. It was all worth it. I am happy I will be there to finish out the school year.
The computer classes are going great. I am running them alone now that Barb is gone. We were working on typing and Word documents, graphs, tables, etc. Now the classes have moved into the office where there is an internet connection. So I am teaching them how to email, Facebook, etc. Some of the guys are straight giddy to learn such a thing. It's a lot of fun.
There have been many changes within myself, as well. I feel such a growth within my spirit and heart. Many of the struggles I battle with have subsided and I have gained so much strength to face struggles and to embrace me and my life. I feel a confidence that I have not felt in some time. I am at peace. It's such a sweet feeling.
Well I think for now, you've been caught up. I will try not to be such a stranger to my Blog. I love you friends and family and miss you SO MUCH everyday.
