From Mikaela
So many things, in so many different ways. Everything here from something as simple as the cars, to something as complex as mixing and pouring concrete, is so different than anything you see in America.
Today we continued pouring concrete, and finished the basketball court. It was really hard work. Everybody was literally dripping with sweat, and tired, but still kept pushing on. I think that one reason why it is so hard is because everything is done by hand. From filling the bags with rocks and soil, to putting it in the mixer, to rolling the mixer over on a wheel to dump the concrete, to spreading, tamping, and making it smooth. It all is done by hand with tools that they made. That’s the way everything here is though. They make do with what they have, and never, ever complain about it. Honestly though, the hard work felt good. Like I was really getting something accomplished. The other team mates said the same thing, but I don’t think we could do a whole other day of pouring concrete; it really takes its toll on the team.
One thing that we have back in the US that we take for granted is food. They really don’t have that much of it here. And there are 20 malnourished kids in the Barrio because of lack of food. The Day Care Center feeds the children, but only if the government grants them money; and they can only get granted money if they go to a meeting and ask, so if they run out of money for food in the mean time the kids don’t get fed. Well, the Day Care Center has run out of money and the meeting isn’t until June 15th, and even going to the meeting doesn’t guarantee that they will get the money. That is why we have decided to provide a food for the children.
All in all our team is doing well and loves it here in the Philippines. We work well as a team, and all get a long very well. We feed off of one another’s energy. We don’t get payed, but we all agree that seeing a hungry child eat food that we bought and prepared, or teenagers playing on an old newly cemented basketball court, or hearing a young child call out your name and smile and wave as you drive by, is reward enough for us. We all love the hard work that is expected from us on this trip, and none of us are particularly excited about going home, so we just try not to think about it. There is so much to love about this place…especially the food.
Thank you, Mikaela, for your great words. I could feel the emotion in your writing. (Your English teacher would be proud!) You all have been given a gift that will last your entire life. That is priceless, and I know that what you are giving to those you are working with will also remain, even after you have come home. I love the handprints in the cement. Those will be waiting for you— Marie
You guys are doing a great job! We’re very proud of you all, but we’re especially happy that you are all learning how most of the world lives. We are praying that this experience will carry over into your adulthood and help you make decisions in your future that will honor God. Blessings, Ellen
Great letter! Thanks for sharing the experience with us.We do take many things for granted, thanks for reminding us:). Keep up the good work and continue to reflect Christ. Thanks
Clint and Callie
SO proud of Carley
Worked today in Big Timber so just now got a chance to see it. Amazing!!!! We are praying for all of you and want to thank you for keeping us posted.
Hi Sweetie! I’m sure proud of you and what you are doing there. I feel so good to know that you are enjoying yourself and making a difference with those children. Be extra thankful to Pastor Michael and Liz as they are the ones making this happen for all of you. God bless you Mikaela and we all are praying for each of you there. This has been so good and the love you can share will be with you always. We love and miss you 🙂
Mom