I apologize for the lack of posts lately, I've been busy up to my neck! This past week, I was in Mexico City, but the week before, I was in Manila, in the Philippines.
Take a look at these pictures: This was my week in Manila.
I spent two days playing with young children in a small village called Gawad Kalinga Baseco. Gawad Kalinga is an organization that helps families build homes. In order for a family to receive a home, though, they must help build the home for 265 days. It gives them motivation, and it also gives them a reason to be self-sufficient. Some of the students in Cast B had the opportunity to share some smiles with the children in this community. We played tag, Duck Duck Goose, hide-and-seek, etc. I have never seen so many beautiful, bright smiles. These children were incredible!
After seeing how a lot of the world lives, it opened my eyes to what I have. I am so thankful for the life I have been fortunate enough to live: I have clothes on my back, a roof over my head, food on the table, and so much more. Some of these children don't have any of that. All they have is their small community, and they're so happy!
The next day, I spent time at the Nazareth home. It was a home for girls who were pregnant. Some cases were rape, incest, etc. Some of the girls were there just to have a safe place to give birth. I was privileged to be a part of the group that visited the home. We learned about the the girls, their stories, and we held their beautiful babies. The most impactful part of the day was learning the ages of some of the girls. One was 12, and one was 13. They were there because it was a safe place for them to go. In the US, I hear about 15, 16, 17 year olds getting pregnant, and I'm surprised, but when I hear about a 13 year old being pregnant, and knowing their situation, it is extremely shocking! They were still such little girls! Their bodies weren't ready to handle a pregnancy! That day also made me appreciate the fantastic family I have.
Anyway, I'll catch up with you all soon!
See you in December :)
Bonnie
