What a crazy week!

This week has been CRAZY, both in good ways and in some not so good ways.
As usual, most of my week was spent with Nikki and Reagan helping with Cynergy. This week, we continued teaching the learners small letter sounds. Now for the not so usual stuff...

Convo with Reagan
It’s been awesome to see my relationships with Nikki and Reagan grow this week. This couple amazes me! And they have taught me a ton. Tuesday I had an extremely thought provoking conversation with Regan. Their vision for Cynergy isn’t to help kids in South Africa or even Africa, but to help kids worldwide. They want to expand their ministry to Zimbabwe, China, South America, even the States. Thus, Regan and I began discussing what a Cynergy program would look like in the States and what my involvement in it might look like. After throwing out dozens of ideas, Reagan stopped me. He told me that, although he was grateful for the ideas, he brought up the subject because he wanted me to pray and consider what I might do with the things that I’ve learned working with Cynergy. He wanted to make me aware of the possibilities, that it was possible for me to start and run an organization like Cynergy in the States. Whoa! His confidence in me is empowering, and it really got me thinking. This conversation along with other activities that I’ve done with Cynergy, such as the vision page, have got me thinking about my future. Before coming to South Africa, I wanted to do some sort of adoption counseling. After being here a month and being exposed to the learners and their heartache, I realized that I must extend this to counseling vulnerable children, not just orphans. And after this conversation, I wonder if I’m to extend this beyond formal counseling. There are so many options out there that involve my passion for hurting kids; perhaps counseling is only a small venue that I can use to love on these precious kiddos.
I learned something else during my conversation with Reagan. It finally clicked: Cynergy isn’t a reading program. Cynergy is a program that seeks to empower kids that have been told time and time again that they are worthless nobodies who have no future by showing them that they are valuable beyond belief and are capable of fulfilling their dreams, no matter how big or seemingly impossible. They are capable; they can do things greater than they’ve yet imagined. Coincidentally (or rather by God’s planning), this is exactly what I want to do with my life. Wow! Our God is truly amazing!

Convo with Nikki
While discussing a conflict that Cynergy was having with one of its partners, Nikki revealed to me an amazing truth. She told me the she and Reagan pray about every decision that they make before they make it. She was frustrated with this partner because, after praying about the item being discussed, Nikki didn’t have peace about it. I can’t go into a lot of the details of our conversation, but through it I realized a huge cultural difference. In the States, we’re taught to be independent, to be able to stand on our own without anyone’s assistance. I think that this philosophy has overflowed into our relationship with God. As Christians, we are to rely on God for everything, to be completely dependent on Him. This conflicts with our American philosophy of independence. I think (please pardon the generalization) most American Christians pray to God for the “big” thing: what our future career should be, what our family should look like, financial stuff, etc, but rely on our own wisdom for the “little”, every day things. Here, Nikki and Reagan pray about EVERYTHING. And because of it, they have amazing testimonies about things God has done in their lives. Nikki told me that on several occasions, her prayer partners have advised her on things that she had never told them nor anyone else. God simply spoke to the prayer partner, who in turn told Nikki. I think in the States, we have a really bad habit of limiting our God. But our God has no limits! Nikki has really shown me that I need to surrender EVERYTHING to God, to trust Him with it; not to rely on myself for anything, no matter how seemingly small, but to seek God’s will. As the Cynergy saying goes, every decision you make either brings you one step closer or one step further away from your goal. Nikki also helped me realize that I need to spend more time in prayer, both talking and listening to God. After our conversation, I realized how little time I spend in prayer. The Bible says to pray continuously, to pray to God on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests.

Culture Shock
This week I experienced the first of any real culture shock. As usual, Thursday morning I was teaching the grade 4 Afrikaans girls at Lakeside Primary. I love working with these girls! They are eager to learn and obedient. As usual, the class went extremely well. As I was getting the names of the girls who earned gold stars (this week we implemented a reward system of gold stars so that we were focusing on the good of the learners instead of just handing out red cards and focusing on the bad. Now our learners are rewarded and punished in the Cynergy program, just like they are in the real world), one of my learners ran into the classroom (the other girls were lined up outside waiting to go back to their normal classroom) and informed me that one of the girls was crying. She led me outside and to the crying girl, who I took aside to figure out what was wrong. Apparently, Francis, another learner in the class, stole her pen. So I took the first little girl and Francis back inside the classroom to do a bit of conflict resolution. Apparently Francis lent her pen to the first little girl the day before, and the first little girl didn’t bring it to school, so Francis thought it only fair to take her friend’s pen. But the first little girl wasn’t upset because her pen had been taken; she was upset because she knew that if she didn’t have a pen, her teacher would hit her. Corporal punishment is illegal here in SA, but apparently the parents have signed some sort of agreement that allows it. I wish I could explain the look of terror in that little girl’s eyes, wish I could show you her fear. It was absolutely heartbreaking! After explaining the importance of responsibility and returning things that you borrow, I made Francis return the pen and let the first little girl return to class. I proceeded to tell Francis that just because someone did something wrong to her, she didn’t have the right to do something wrong to them. I motioned her over to my bag and told her that I didn’t want her getting in trouble either, so I would borrow her my pen until the next week. A look of relief came across her face until I pulled out the pen. You see, my pen was purple; her teacher would only allow blue. Defeated, fighting tears, she slowly returned to her class knowing far too well what lay ahead of her. It completely broke my heart! I so wish I could have gone in and stopped the teacher, explained the situation to her. But it wouldn’t have helped. It shocks me not only that this children are being hit as punishment (and from the reactions of these girls, it wasn’t a gentle spanking), but that they’re being hit for having the wrong color pen. My greatest concern is for the learners well being, and obviously living in fear of messing up and being severally punished isn’t good for their well being. Frankly, I don’t think many of the teachers here care too much about their students well being, but they do care about how they are viewed as a teacher as it is reflected by their learners progress. If my understanding is correct, if a child is terrified, s/he can’t learn. S/he is too focused on survival to bother with the curriculum. SA already has enough problems in their education system; it can’t afford to have fear added.

Visa: It’s everywhere you want to be yet somehow unattainable
Thursday I went with Laura in attempt to get my visa extended, but the two home affairs that we went to didn’t have an immigration department. Thus, we went again on Friday, but were once again unsuccessful. We were told by Vox that I needed a temporary housing permit, but home affairs told us that I required a worker’s visa, which meant not only did I need my passport and a letter from Vox but also a police clearance and bank statements. Home affairs is rather unorganized, to but it gently. Basically, if we would have talked with someone else, we would have been told that we needed a different document. It’s quite frustrating.

Northwest
My mother's first flight was from GR to Detroit. Unfortunately, her first flight was delayed causing her to miss all of her other flights and thus she won't get her until tonight. I was very disappointed yesterday, but I can't wait to see her today! Only a few more hours!

Praise the Lord!
-For Nikki and Reagan, for all that they're teaching me and the confidence and love that they have for me
-For precious Bianca and her contagious laugh
-For rest
-For health
-For growing me
-For using me
-For my home cell group
-For Laura and her sweet, giving spirit
-For the ability to read and write
-For music
-For amazing friends at home who listen to me when things get crazy here and love me unconditionally
-That I get to see my mom soon
-For the exciting week ahead
-For time to relax
-For cleansing rain
-For encouragement

Please pray:
-For continued safety as my mom flies and that nothing else delays her
-That I learn to pray about everything and surrender to God completely
-For protection over Nikki and Reagan's family and marriage
-That God provides the finances and facilitators that Cynergy needs
-That God protects the precious children here; that He overwhelms them with His love and shows them His truth
-That my visa gets sorted out
-That I have a great, safe, healthy time with my mom this week
-For unity in our team
-That God continues to use me
-For continued health and safety
-That God makes His plan for my future clear and that He guides me in it
-That the educators here see the power that they have to shape the learners and that they have compassion for the learners

*All pictures in this post are from the Legends Study Method workshop this past Saturday

Treasures

Therefore, since through God's mercy we have this ministry, we do not lose heart. Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.
2 Corinthians 4:1. 16-18

Living in SA, I've noticed that it's quite easy to become discouraged. It's easy to be brought down by the seemingly endless problems here: poor education, HIV/AIDS, extreme poverty, crime, violence, hunger, orphans, the list goes on. It's easy to become blinded to what God's doing here by all that still needs to be done. Though it's easy to become overwhelmed by the huge need, I'm learning to focus on all that God IS doing, learning to treasure the things that He gives me every week. Here are a few of the treasures from this week:

• Lakeside grade 4 Afrikaans girls- After our first week of rolling out the program, Lakeside primary was my most discouraging school. Many of the students didn't even know the letters of the English alphabet. However, Lakeside was my most encouraging school this week. Over the past few weeks, I've been working with a class of grade 4 Afrikaans girls. The girls were amazing this week! We started the lesson by going over the sound card, which they knew very well. Then we continued with last weeks lesson by going over the spelling of the words on their homework page. I turned this into a game, which they loved. It's so encouraging to see their excitement to learn. I treasure the time that I have with these girls, their excitement about learning, and their excellet behavior
  
• Bianca- I just love this little girl! Now whenever she sees me, she reaches for me to pick her up. The other day she got scared and ran to me for protection. I treasure the innocence and love of this precious little one. I treasure the opportunity to love on her.

• Laura- I just love Laura! Tehe. It amazes me how she cares for me and how she's willing to invest in me. I treasure our friendship
• Reagan- This man is hilarious! Cynergy is stressful beyond words for his family, yet he remains gentle and playful in spirit. Earlier this week he took a squirt gun from his son, Jakin, and began squirting Nikki with it. Daily he adds childlike joy to the time that I spend with him. I treasure the joy that he brings to my days.
• Hugs- This week some of the students have not only embraced the program but also embraced us. Tehe. Their hugs (and the ones sent to me across the internet, tehe) always brighten my day. I treasure the touches that communicate love from both near and far.
• Sunshine- It just brightens my day! Tehe. I treasure feeling God's warmth through the beauty of His creation.
• Home Cell- I treasure the community that God has given me.
  
• God's Truth- I treasure having the Truth to defeat the lies of this world.

• Prayers- There's few things better than knowing I am enveloped in prayers from all over this crazy planet of ours. I treasure knowing that I am not alone in my ministry, and that I am empowered by a God with whom NOTHING is impossible.

Please pray:

• That I am able to focus on the daily treasures that God gives me rather than the problems of this world, on the eternal rather than the temporary
• For health. I've been sick all week, which has been extremely draining
• For spiritual strength and discipline
• That God's love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self control shines through me throughout this week
• For unity in our team
• For the kids to hunger for knowledge and to be encouraged during our time together
• For safe travels for my mom as she flies in this coming week and that we're able to enjoy our time together
• That, in all that I do, I bring glory to our Lord and Savior
  

Perspective

Yesterday was a horrible, terrible, no good, very bad day. I've been sick all week, and thanks to a fever didn't sleep well the night before last. I was not a happy camper when my alarm went off too early, and so the snooze button became my new best friend. Ten minutes before I had to leave, I forced myself out of bed and rushed to get ready. Groggy and grumpy, I headed to a primary school. My congested head, sore throat, frazzled mind, and poor attitude didn't allow me to be very helpful with the classes. Of course I felt guilty about this and beat myself up for not doing my job. After the classes dragged on for what seemed like an eternity, we had to walk home for some lunch. We got home only to discover that there was no food in the house, thus my lunch consisted of some nasty Horlicks nutrition drink. Nikki wasn't in the greatest mood either, complaining and throwing her toys out of the cart all day, only fueling my pessimism. Then we had to drag ourselves back to the school to teach more classes. But the "loveliness" of my day didn't start there. When I finally got home, I dropped on my bed planning to take a long nap awaking just in time for Laura to pick me up for small group. This dream was quickly dashed when Laura informed me that she was going to pick me up and hour and a half sooner that I expected. Thus, I left for her apartment still exhausted and grumpy. And apparently clumsy. Before small group, we made pizza for dinner. Laura asked me to help with a few simply tasks, which I seemed to mess up completely. I spilled pinapple juice all over the kitchen and myself, took forever and a day to cut up the mushrooms and the cheese, and couldn't even figure out how to use a simple can opener. At this point my pride was hurting more than a little bit (which in hindsight is ok), and I was glad that the whole cooking ordeal was over so that I couldn't make more of a fool of myself. Oh but I was wrong! Though the cooking was over, Laura asked me to help make frosting for cinnamin rolls. I simply had to place a cup of powdered sugar in a bowl. Did I end up messing even this simple task up? You'd better believe it! As I attempted to put the sugar back, I managed to knock the vanilla off the shelf, splattering glass and vanilla everywhere, including all over me. This was just the icing on the cake of my horrible day! After cleaning up yet another mess I'd made, I shuffled to the bathroom to attempt to save my shirt from the HUGE impending vanilla stain, mumbling and grumbling to myself all the way. As I stay scrubbing my shirt, I mulled over my rotten day and thought to myself, "yo! This has been one of the worst days of my life". And just as this thought crossed my mind, I caught my eye in the mirror and the Holy Spirit said to me, "my child, if this is one of the worst days of your life, you have a pretty wonderful life!"

Perspective by Kutless

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BKMao76n9Tk

It feels like your life's crashing down all around you
Let me ask if it's really so bad
Look at the world in it's suffering
Can you honestly tell me that know one else could understand
All of the hurting inside

Why can't you see that freedom is sometimes just simply another perspective away
Who could you be if your lens was changed for a moment,
Would you still be the same

A young child looks through a great stained glass window
Watching the people go by
Everyone seems to be wearing a red coat
His mother sees jackets in white
Now he can't understand why does she see it this way

Why can't you see that freedom is sometimes just simply another perspective away
Who could you be if your lens was changed for a moment,
Would you still be the same

Yesterday, you really couldn't see
By changing your angle a new world would be
Revealed to your once blinded eyes by moving a few degrees

Why can't you see that freedom is sometimes just simply another perspective away
Who could you be if your lens was changed for a moment,
Would you still be the same

I’m starting to get into a routine here in SA. Most of my time this week was spent working on Cynergy stuff. This week consisted of a lot of paper work. I put all of the assessment results into the computer to make a report and helped create a lesson plan for the week. This week, I only aught one grade 4 class and assisted in another. This week’s lesson consisted of going through the short vowel sounds of the English alphabet, which was surprisingly difficult for many of the learners. After we went through the sounds a few times, the grade fours were given a piece of paper with pictures on it and blanks under the pictures. They had to sound out the words and put the appropriate letters in the blanks.

I also helped with the Legend meeting on Tuesday and then supervised the Legends as they taught the grade 8 and 9 classes. Basically my job was to ensure that the learners were being obedient and respectful toward my learners (which most weren’t) and ensure that the Legends were teaching the lesson properly. The high school lesson was similar to that of the grade 4. It too started with going through the short sounds of the English alphabet. Afterward, they played a game in which a Legend would a word on the board and then write blanks for a synonym that the class had to guess and then spell. The words that were used were the same words that were on their assessment.

This past week, I’ve noticed how much God has been teaching and growing me. It’s amazing! Never did I imagine that I would be teaching a class of 45 grade 4s or demanding the respect of a class of 60 grade 9s. When I was first told that I would be doing these things, I was very intimidated, especially by the high schoolers. I had no idea how I would gain respect from learners who are basically my age. I wasn’t sure how they’d respond to me and didn’t think they’d respect my authority. But through God’s strength I’m doing it.

Another thing that I learned this week is that I’m very susceptible to people’s expectations of me. I love working with Nikki and Reagan because they empower me to do things I never imagined I’d be able to do. They do so simply by telling me to do the task; they believe that I can do it even when I don’t. It puts me in uncomfortable positions a lot, but it’s good because it’s growing and stretching me. Unfortunately, they aren’t the only ones who have expectations for me here.

I’ve realized that when I’m in a new situation, I’m often uncertain of what is expected of me and therefore become very quiet and cautious. I’m learning that many interpret this first impression as who I am, thus they treat me as such and I respond as such. I’m learning that, though I need to be aware of others expectations of me and what they need from me, I can’t let them shape who I am, constantly morphing to fit their idea of who I am. Rather, I’m learning to be confident in who I am while still remaining flexible enough to stretch and grow.

One thing that I’m extremely thankful for here is my home cell (small group). I hadn’t realized how much I missed my community at home until I started to find one here. After being here a month, I’m finally starting to make friends outside of work (aka Nikki, Reagan, their family and the Vox crew). This past Wednesday night, we had a time of worship and then went around and shared one thing that we are thankful for and one thing that we would like prayer for. It was nice to get a glimpse into each of the group members’ lives and to have something to start conversation with. Most of all, it was refreshing to have genuine, down to earth conversation. I haven’t had a lot of that here.

Another thing that I’m grateful for is Laura. Laura is also a single woman working with Vox in SA. She was here for a year, home for 3 months, and is now back in SA until October. It’s wonderful to have someone here that can relate to me as well as show me the ropes. I’ve found sweet friendship in Laura. Again, it’s great having someone here that I can be genuine with. I’m surprised by how many deep conversations we’ve had already and how open we’ve been with each other. I guess being an ocean away from everything familiar does that.

Fridays are usually a day off as we work many Sundays and sometimes Saturdays as well. However, yesterday instead of taking the day off, Laura and I used our free time to see some of the other things that Vox is involved in. Honestly, the day was a bit overwhelming. I now understand what the Bible means when it says that the harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. There is so much need here! In the time that I’ve been here, I haven’t really ventured outside of Brakpan (where I’m living) or Reiger Park (where I’m working). Though there’s a lot of work to do in the schools, I see the role that I can play there and the difference that I can make. However, the events of the day yesterday showed me how greatly the need extends beyond my schools in Reiger Park. It’s hard to accept that I have the skills to help with some of these other needs, but I can’t fix it all. It’s frustrating to see a need, especially when it involves children, that I could take care of but can’t because their simply isn’t enough time in the day, especially when it means that that need will go unmet. I’m learning to trust that God is still in control, that He still cares for His children, and that He is capable of taking care of their needs without my help. And I’m learning that it’s ok that I don’t fix it all; that isn’t my job. I’m learning to surrender the hurts of the world to God rather than take them on my shoulders.

Yesterday we started our day by visiting a crèche, which is a mixture between a day care and a preschool (and is where all of the pictures in this post were taken). This crèche has 253 kids from age 1 year to 7 years. They start their day with morning exercises, have breakfast and lunch at the crèche, and have schooling and play time. Like most places here, they are understaffed and underfunded. I was in the 1 year old room for most of our visit. There were about 30 babies in the room with 2 or 3 adults, leaving a ratio of 10 to 15 babies per adult. Sadly, when you entered the room, there was a half a dozen babies crying with no one responding to them. What saddened me more was when I picked up a crying child, she was taken away from me and set on the ground. Their thought process is if they pick up a crying baby, the other babies will learn that if they cry they will get attention. If my understanding is correct, a child at this age doesn’t have the intellect to learn in such a way. Rather, they learn that their needs wouldn’t be met regardless of their behavior, so they simply give up on expressing their needs. I was also discouraged from touching the children. Any child older than one year was not allowed to be picked up. Again, they’re trying to create independence in these children so that the crèche can survive with the few staff members that they have. There’s no way that they can give each child the touch and attention that they need, so they give them all small amounts so at least they receive some sort of interaction. I understand that this is necessary in the given situation, but I wonder what effect that this has on their development.

After visiting the crèche, we drove by an AIDs clinic that Vox had a relationship with. It amazes me how AIDs is such a huge problem here yet I’ve been able to so easily ignore it here. It’s rarely crossed my mind. Sure, I think twice when I see a student bleeding or sick, but it hasn’t been as prevalent as I expected. Out of sight out of mind I guess. It’s really cool to see the difference in the AIDs crisis from two years ago. Though there’s still a long journey ahead, the stigma is slowly (very slowly) decreasing and the use of ARV’s is becoming more frequent.
After the AIDs clinic, we met with a sweet lady named Paulina. Last year, Paulina had huge hernia on her stomach. A few of the women working with Vox helped her get the life saving surgery that she needed and formed a friendship with her. We visited her to see how the incision was healing and to give her some company. She said that she was doing well, but was in pain. She is also lonely. When we started to leave, she almost started crying (which made leaving even harder). After we reassured her that we would visit again, her mood improved.

After we left Paulina, we stopped for lunch at Pookie's coffee shop. The longer that I’m here, the more I realize how much relationship is valued in South African culture. People will gladly set aside pressing work if someone stops by for a visit.

After a stop at the Fruit and Veg for some groceries, Laura and I had a bit of down time before heading to youth. Many of the churches here are much more charismatic than those in the States. It’s quite typical to hear people speaking in tongues and prophesying during each service. This is something that I’m still getting used to and trying to figure out.

While I was at youth, I met a man named Henno. He got connected through the church through their addict outreach program and got out of rehab a few weeks ago. Again, I’m amazed at how God guided me in our interaction. Never in my wildest dreams did I imagine I’d be hanging out with previous drug addicts. It’s cool to see how God is growing me in so many different ways, and how he’s growing my new friend. Surely nothing is impossible with God!

Another thing that I’ve noticed this week is the peace that God has given me. Working with one of my coworkers, my eyes are being opened to so many things that I could be afraid of, but am not. I know that God has brought me here and that He’s going to protect me. Does that mean everything is going to be easy? No way! But I trust that regardless of what happens, He will take care of me. And though I’m trying to take up a spirit of fear but rather the spirit of power, love, and self-control that God has given me, it’s been helpful seeing my coworker’s fears because it makes better aware of my surroundings.

Still another thing that I’ve noticed this week is the spiritual warfare that is alive and well in SA. God is teaching me tons and growing me in ways that I never imagined. I get the feeling that the devil doesn’t like this one bit and is fighting it with everything he’s got. Along with all that God is teaching me, He’s also revealed some dangerous characteristics that I’ve picked up on in the last few weeks: a fearful spirit, pride, gossip, favoritism, complaining, vanity, prejudgment (this has been a biggy. I realized that I've been judging people, especially the educators here, without even knowing them (I found out this week that one of the educators that we work with is coming out of a sever depression that almost caused her to lose her sanity. Pray for her, please. And for her learners). I’ve already seen the damage that these have done with some of the people that I work with and am determined to stomp them out of my life before they do any more damage. I know that this is going to be a lot of work, but I know that I can do it through Christ who strengthens me.

This week I’ve been reminded of the importance and power of prayer. I’ve been reminded to pray continuously on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. I’m reminded that no prayer is too great nor too small for my God; whether it be something as huge as an end to crime, poverty, and illness in South Africa or as small as praying for ants to go away (last week I posted on my blog to pray that the ants in my bed to go away, but later was embarrassed by such a silly request and removed it. Just so you know, I no longer have ants). Over and over agai\n, I am reminded of God’s power and strength, and how He uses both to take care of His loved ones. Constantly God is overcoming the limits that I’ve put on Him, proving to me that He is a limitless God. And more so, I'm learning the power of praying God's Word.

Praise the Lord:
-For Laura! She is absolutely amazing! I know that it is God's timing that we are both here at the same time. I'm excited to watch our friendship continue to grow. It's so nice to have someone here that not only understands where I'm coming from but is also so incredibly genuine.
-For puppies printed on toilet paper. Bahahaha! Ok, so by the time we got to Pookie's coffee shop yesterday, I was quite tired and a little grouchy. But when I went into the bathroom and saw the toilet paper, I couldn't help but laugh! It's funny how God uses such little things to brighten your day.
-For kiddos. I just love them!
-For using me in ways that I never expected or imagined I could be used.
-For healing my sunburn
-For filling me with His peace that surpasses all understanding
-For home cell and the friendships that He's provided for me there.
-For Nikki and Reagan and the faith that they have in me
-For an amazing amount of encouragement this week
-For a full fridge and a warm bed
-For safety and health
-For crazy adventures
-For His incredible love, mercy, grace, and patience
-For educators who care about their children
-For opportunity
-For getting rid of the ants. Tehe.
-For lazy days and work to do
-For hilarious cards
-For giving my mom the opportunity to come visit me in a few weeks
-That He is more than enough
-That He is bigger than anything that I'll ever have to face
-For all that He is teaching me
-For growing me in His truth
-For using me
-For loved ones at home who are supporting me with daily prayers and encouragement
-For technology
-For waking me up each morning
-For filling me with His peace
-For new experiences
-For paint. Tehe.
-For hot showers in the morning
-For crazy beautiful clouds! I just love them!
-For being able to do more than I could ever day to ask or even dream of, infinitely beyond my highest desires, thoughts, or hopes
-For taking care of me
-For using me as His hands and feet
-For the plan that He's created for me
-For the way that He makes me think
-For my Bible
-For confidence, courage, and strength
-For never abandoning or forsaking me
-For a new week ahead of me
-For Angela, a precious baby at the creche with a beautiful smile!

Please pray:
-For the kids at the creche. Pray that they receive the love and interaction that they need. Pray that their spiritual, physical, emotional, social, and mental needs are taken care of.
-For Momma P who runs the creche. Pray that God fills her with peace and providers her with the workers and finances that she needs.
-For Paulina. Pray that God heals her and takes away her pain. Pray that He keeps her from becoming lonely.
-For Cynergy. Pray that God provides the resources (finances and people) that are needed. Pray that the minds and hearts of the children are opened.
-For Nikki, Reagan, and their family. Pray that they're able to find balance between work, play and rest. Pray that God overwhelms them with love, joy, and peace.
-For the educators. Pray that they see the value of their work and their impact on their future. Pray that we learn to have grace and patience with them, remembering that they too are human.
-For orphans
-For peace
-For those with AIDs or HIV. Pray that God brings them peace and comfort. Pray that they accept their status and are accepted by their communities. Pray that they are able to get the care that they need.
-For continued protection and health (and that this cold/sore throat thing that I've had over the past few days would go away).
-For unity in our team. I pray Eph 4:1-6 (As a prisoner for our Lord, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. Be completely humble and gentle; bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit- just as you were called to one hope when you were called- one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all) our for our team
-For spiritual strength. Pray that I put on the full armor of God so when the day of evil comes, I will be able to stand my ground, and after I have done everything, to stand
-That God teaches me to love unconditionally, to be gracious, patient, gentle, and peaceful
-For humility, confidence, and courage
-That God continues to challenge and grow me
-For our learners and our schools
-For our leadership both locally (school level) and nationally (government)
-That they police become less corrupt
-For the upcoming elections in SA
-For my mom as she prepares to visit in a two weeks
-For friends here and at home who are struggling
-For Henno as he seeks God instead of drugs
-For wisdom and Truth

MY GOD IS AMAZING!!!!

Roll Out

This week we rolled out the reading program. We began last Saturday with a Legends meeting. At the meeting, we explain this week’s assignment to the Legends and taught them how to teach their classes (the Legends are placed in groups that each teach a grade 8 or 9 class every other week). This week’s lesson was a Vision paper. The students were each given a piece of paper which they folded to form 8 boxes. At the top of the page, they wrote “Me in 2020”. Basically, they had to depict what they wanted their lives to look like in 11 years. In the first box, they described their appearance, in the second their relationships, in the middle 4 how they were going to change the world (i.e. their job), and in the bottom 2 boxes they put the things that they would like to have. The learners were instructed to either draw or cut and paste pictures from a magazine showing their lives in 2020. Then they were to write sentences explaining the pictures. Additionally, the high schoolers (grade 8+) had to write the steps that were required for their vision to become reality. The purpose of this assignment was to get the students excited about the possibilities of their futures. We also plan to use it to encourage students to stay in school when things get tough (even primary school aged children drop out of school here).
The first assignment was both encouraging and discouraging. Throughout the week we gave the lesson to the 4 primary schools that we’re working in and supervised the Legends as they taught the grade 8s and 9s. It was exciting to see how hopeful the learners were about their future. Like students in the States, many of the grade 4s dream of becoming police officers, doctors, teachers, astronauts, firemen, etc. I even had one learner tell me that he was going to be a Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle when he grew up. Yes sir, these kids are dreaming big. I love that they haven’t let all of the things stacked against them (a ridiculous dropout rate (less than 20% of learners who enter grade not (kindergarten) will graduate from high school), witchcraft, satanism, cults, drugs, alcohol, sex, gangs, violence, poor education, ridiculous educators, constantly being degraded, huge classes (one of the classes that we worked in this week had 65 learners in it), poor leadership, poverty, hunger, little or no school supplies, child-run homes, be orphaned, the list goes on…) discourage their dreams. They know that they want to leave an impact on their community, and we seek to help them achieve their goals.
The first assignment was also discouraging because it revealed just exactly how far behind many of the learners are. Many of the grade 4s struggled with simple tasks such as cutting out a picture from a magazine and understanding spacing; many don’t even know what a sentence is. In the last class that I taught, I asked a learner to write an “a”, and he didn’t know what “a” was. With other learners, I’d ask them to write a “w” and instead they’d write “h”. Yup, we have a lot of work ahead of us. Still, it’s encouraging to see that the students are excited to learn. I can’t wait to see how they’ve progressed when my time here ends.
Other than that, my week consisted of finishing marking assessments and meeting with principals to confirm when we were going to meet with the classes. It still amazes me how disorganized things are around here. You agree with the principal to roll out the program at such and such a date and time, and he agrees to it. Then when you come to roll out the program, he asks why you’re there. It’s just crazy to me! The other thing that’s crazy to me is how often the educators bunk (skip) work. 2 of the 4 classes that I taught this week didn’t have a teacher. Here, if a teacher doesn’t show up for work, there isn’t a substitute. Rather, the students just sit in class all day, falling further and further behind. I was talking with a secretary at the last school that we taught at, and she informed me that that day 7 of their educators bunked work. She said that was a pretty normal occurrence. That just floors me!

Today we had to hand out uniforms for the genvox program at the Soweto Vineyard Church, so we went there for church. For whatever reason, I work up in not the greatest mood, and not too excited for a church that felt so foreign. My mood worsened as I started feeling sick throughout the service. But God is good and gave me a precious little girl who made my day!
At the end of the service today, we had time to pray in a small group. The little girl's mother was in my group, so when we opened our eyes after we finished praying, the little girl and some other children were standing around us. At first the little girl was extremely shy, hiding behind her mother whenever we tried to talk to her. Then for whatever reason (I blame God, tehe), she was drawn to me. She started tugging on my skirt, and instantly we became friends. I spent the rest of the afternoon carrying her around on my back and playing with her. She was fascinated by the contents of my bag, especially my camera (as were the other kids). She lead me over to the jungle gym where a bunch of other kids were playing. One of the other little girls asked if the little girl on my back was my daughter (which I found somewhat amusing considering she is black and I am not), and I told her that the little girl wasn't my daughter but my friend. Then a bunch of the kiddos came up to me and asked if they could be my friend too. Aww, precious moments! Tehe. Yup, God is still providing exactly what I need. My God is so good!

Another highlight of my week happened on Thursday. After my most discouraging classes (the one where students didn't even know their letters), I returned to Nikki and Reagan's house to mark assessments, but Bianca (Marta's (Nikki and Reagan's maid; almost everyone has a maid here) two year old daughter)had other plans for my afternoon. She just wouldn't leave me alone. She'd run across the room and jump into my lap, wait for me to tickle or snuggle her, climb down, run back across the room, then do it all over again. Tehe. When she decided that I wasn't paying enough attention to her, she stole my pen. Then I think she felt bad for delaying my work, because she then proceed to mark the assessments herself (and by mark I mean scribble on them, or rather on the paper that I gave her instead). Too cute! A couple of times, she stopped me so she could give me a kiss. Now, as a two year old, Bianca doesn't understand the concept of giving a kiss on a cheek. The first few times that she tried to kiss me, I turned to give her my cheek. Now, Bianca just wouldn't have that. She took my face in her little hands, turned my head, and gave me a sloppy kiss on the lips. If she was any older, it would have been gross, but she can get away with it cause she's cute (Reagan says I'm spoiling her, and I'd have to agree). Tehe.

Yup, I love little ones! I'm so thankful that God has given me the opportunity to work with kids over the next 6 months (make that 5 months. Whoa buddy, I've been here a month already! Time sure flies!).

Thank You, Jesus:
-For little ones. Tehe. They just make my day. I can be having the worst day in the world, and something as simple as the smile of a precious child can change it completely. Yessire, thank You Jesus for children!
-For sunshine! After what felt like constant rain, the past three days have been filled with glorious sunshine. It's so energizing. Yesterday I took full advantage of it, and I have the sunburn to prove it. Yeah, my back and shoulders are going to be hurting for a while. And having a few dozen children climbing all over me, and a very special little girl on my back all afternoon wasn't very helpful. Oh my goodness though! Today, oh of the (many) girls who was playing with my hair noticed that my back was sunburned and asked me why a white person had red skin. Bahahahaha! I tried to explain sunburn to her, but I'm not sure she understood. It was too cute!
-For Laura. I simply love how giving Laura is. She's taking care of me not because she has to, but because she wants to. She understands what it's like to be a single woman living so far away from everything familiar. Ahh, I really can't put into words how thankful I am for her or all that she does for me. She just cares, and is crazy genuine. It's so refreshing, and exactly what I need here. God is the ultimate provider!
-That Laura's finally feeling better! Yeah!
-That my madre is coming to visit me in a little over two weeks. Tehe. I can't wait for her to get here! I didn't realize how much I would miss her. Plus, I'm super excited to show her what my life looks like over her and why I love these people like I do. And secretly I'm excited to have someone familiar here.
-That I get to go to Kruger Park in three weeks. Yup, the other good part about having my mother here is that it means I get some vacation time. Tehe. Laura (and everyone else who has been there) speaks the world of Kruger, and I can't wait to experience it for myself in a few weeks. Basically, Kruger is a giant game preserve that you drive through and see animals in their natural habitat. Laura tells me that it's nice to get away from the heaviness of Joburg, and that I wouldn't realize how heavy living here really is until I leave, even if it's just a few days. I'm excited to experience God's creation, to have a break, and to spend it with two people that I love (my mom and Laura).
-For God growing me. I realized lately that my devotions had taken a noose dive (danger danger!), and that I really needed to turn that around, so I dedicated Saturday to spending time with God (reading my Bible, writing in my prayer journal, reading a book about growing spiritually, singing, enjoying nature, etc). As I was journaling, I realized how much God has been teaching and growing me. It's so cool!
-For answered prayer! This is another thing that I realized on Saturday. For much of the time that I've been here, I've been praying that God would fill me with His courage and confidence, that He would empower me to do things that I couldn't do on my own. Oh buddy, does God answer prayer! I realized yesterday that for the past 2 weeks I've been teaching classes of 45+ learners. This summer I thought a group of 10 campers was too much to handle! And I've taught high schoolers. For whatever reason, high schoolers TERRIFY me. Maybe it's because they're so close to me in age, or they could easily beat me up if they wanted to, or because they're not cute little kids who love me simply because I smiled at them, I don't really know. Tehe. But God's helped me conquer this fear and has given me the strength to teach a whole class of them, and even to befriend a few of the Legends. Tehe.
-For amazing friends! Constantly I am being encouraged by people living half way around the world. This amazes me! Whether it's through a note written before I left, an email, something on facebook, a skype call, or a comment on here, constantly I'm being encouraged. It's great! I know that, if though I'm an ocean away, I'm never alone here.
-For a full belly. When beggars are a regular part of the scenery, one realizes what a blessing food is. And I don't just have food; I have the choice of what kind of food I want. I've even been blessed enough that I can go out to eat with friends, or have a crazy cookie party. Speaking of which...
-For crazy cookie parties! Wednesday, Laura and I were both a bit stressed, so to take the edge off, we decided to have a movie marathon (we ended up watching the Last Holiday and Friends for a good 5 hours), and what movie marathon is complete without not one, not two, not even three, but FOUR different kinds of cookies. Yeah sugar high! And Laura made delicious stir fry for dinner. Yup, it was a good day. Tehe.
-For finger paint. Tehe. This has been my other stress reliever. Last semester, my roommates and I started a tradition every Tuesday where we would finger paint anything from posters to pumpkins to each other. I've decided to continue this tradition (though I've extended it to more than just Tuesday). It's been fun, and as a bonus, my walls are not as bare.
-For prayer. I think it's so cool that God gives us such an easy method of getting a hold of Him. Tehe.

Please pray:
-That my sunburn heals quickly. I'm ready loose the "red girl" title. And for my ears to stop burning. Tehe.
-That I stay healthy. I think I'm starting to catch whatever Laura had.
-That I can continue to grow in God's Truth.
-For Unity and wisdom in the Vox team
-For patience and understanding
-For Reagan's sister. She's still in the ICU recovering from her brain operation. Pray for a full, speedy recovery and for peace for the family.
-For the students here. Pray that they're able to conquer all of the obstacles that are thrown at them.
-For the educators. Pray that they're hearts are transformed, and that they begin to see the impact that they have on their learners.
-For rest
-For continued safety
-For strength in spiritual warfare. Thursday, I got together with my friend Peter. Our conversation really opened my eyes to the spiritual warfare going on here. He told me that satanists and cults target kids, especially elementary aged kids, to join them. A lot of it is over my head, but the thought of young, innocent kids being targeted scared me. Pray that these children are able to resist the (literal) spells and lure of the magic that this people present to them. And pray that God changes the hearts of this people. And pray that I stay strong enough to stand my ground. Nothing is impossible with God.
-Overall, please pray for our children here. Pray that God protects them spiritually, physically, emotionally, mentally, and socially. Pray that, despite the odds, they thrive and fulfill the plans that God has prepared for them. Pray that I learn how to best encourage and help them.