Day #35

I spent the majority of today working on my very first assignment for Debbie. Next week, while going out to a few of the numerous children centers, I will teach a lesson that I am now preparing. Since they are on the "Keeping Safe" unit, and they are focusing on the letter "f" I thought a lesson on fire safety would be appropriate. I have come up with a short story with learning aids, a few interactive games and reinforcing activities. I also found some adorable firemen hats and firetrucks from the store today!

The kids will not be able to understand English and their teacher will have to translate all instructions/information for me. In doing so, it will serve as a learning experience for the teacher. For most of the teachers, very little qualifications are required to teach these children in the under resourced centers. Therefore, they are not always trained or experienced in how to engage the children with the lessons that are prepared for them. For all of the activities I have planned, very few materials are needed. Effectiveness does not always have to depend on costliness.

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Since I first decided I wanted to partake in this mission trip, I have been constantly supported and encouraged. Not only have I been supported financially, but both emotionally and spiritually as well. My family, friends and church family have all been outstanding in their efforts of uplifting and reassuring throughout the past few months.

However, there is no better assurance than change.

In South Africa, it has been mind blowing to see God move both in Pretoria and surrounding areas. I have witnessed numerous people establish and re-establish relationships with God. I have also had the privilege of assisting little ones find hope in hopeless situations just by telling them about Jesus and what he did for us. But, something happened today that was equally satisfying that occurred right in my home town.

I have quite a few friends but only a handful of "true" friends that are always there no matter when or where. In that handful, is one particular friend that will laugh at all my jokes, pick me up when I've stumbled and even put me in my place when necessary. This friend has stuck by my side through tough situations and even some pretty nasty arguments. She is supportive of all of my decisions as a Christian although church has never really been her thing. This one particular friend, who will set my alarm for church if ever I forget before I fall asleep on a Saturday night that we hang out together (even if she's not planning on going herself).

This one incredible friend, who messaged me today saying "So when you come back I want to start going to church with you."

Seeing God work in the lives and hearts of people you don't know is great. But seeing God work in the lives of the ones that you love and care about is monumental. That one simple message gave me an incredible amount of reassurance and motivation.

Change is a beautiful thing.

(P.S. Murray & Dalene put ranch on their salads for dinner tonight. I was so proud.)

xoxo
Taylor