Dime Como se juega

Here is a picture that was sent to my friend Ian of some of the kids that we are connected with in Colombia. Looking at these pictures makes me want to go to Colombia even more. Can't you just see the joy in their faces? These children that have so little in terms of 'stuff', but they're so happy. I really look forward to what I've heard from those who've gone before about the hospitality and the happiness that these Colombian people have. They are satisfied with what little they have, and the joy of the Lord is so alive in them. Sometimes I think that in terms of faith and a close relationship to God they are miles ahead of our North-American culture. We have so much stuff, so many things on our schedules to keep us busy and distract us from what is really important in life: namely our relationship to our Creator, and helping other people to know Him. We talked in my heart to heart class this week about "pausing on purpose" and how important that is to finding your 'sweet spot' in life. Let's face it, we're all so busy that finding a quiet spot to listen to the still small voice of God is a very difficult task indeed. Especially with 3 young children. We have so much, and we want even more. We take on so much and fill our schedules and get swept up in all the world has to offer. But at what sacrifice to our spirit? Do we take the time to connect with God? Do we take the time to foster meaningful friendships with others? Do we notice when those around us are hurting and need a friend? Do we offer to help or are we too wrapped up in ourselves to notice?

I've managed to get myself off topic again :) My Spanish phrase for today is "show me how to play". I figure this will be a useful phrase when I'm working with kids down there. I'm determined to learn enough Spanish to be able to talk with them on directly. I know they'll have fun laughing at my Spanish ;) Thanks to Dora the Explorer I'm managed to learn most of my colours: amarillo, rojo, verde, azul, anaranjado. I've got my numbers up to 9 down pat. I'd say I'm doing pretty well. I still have a long way to go. I discovered tonight that I have the DVD Cheaper by the Dozen and it actually has a Spanish version (audio, not subtitles) so I'm going to try to watch that at some point. They say the best way to learn is to immerse yourself in it and listen to it often. Let's face it, there aren't many Spanish speaking people in Huron County.

Well, as my trip approaches I get even more excited. Joel is thrilled for me, but in a way is very sad that he doesn't get to go as well. Our hope is to someday go together. In fact, our children are always asking when they will get to go as well. Who knows, maybe the whole family will go someday. It's all in God's hands.

Mel :)