March 26, 2011
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Living Stones is really moving along—I feel like it is now dragging me along, instead of me trying to pull it. This week our character quality was creativity. Going along with that was the unexpected blessing of making jewelry. Every year (since 2008) I have had a jewelry project, to make jewelry to bring back to the United States when I return. The first year it consisted of two days of chaos, where I bought some supplies, put them on the table, and it was a free for all. None of us knew what we were doing, or had any idea of how to make anything more than simple beads on a string.
In 2009, I carefully planned it out with Patricia and Cacau, thinking they would do a lovely job with the kids. In the end, they were not able to, so it ended up just me again. Luckily the art teacher taught me how to crochet, and came up with some lovely ideas for the kids to do. This year, I knew I was on my own—funny enough, now it is me trying to teach crochet (yes, it is as entertaining as it sounds).
In Cajueiro, Raissa has been coming with us to volunteer, she brings a lot of energy and enthusiasm with her. Here is our classroom, which I have to clean every Monday because lots of frogs and bats live here as well (and leave their presents). They also jump/fly out at me and make all the kids laugh when I scream.
The kids are not only enjoying the jewelry making, but are learning basic English: this week we played Candyland—and you had to say the colors in English before moving to a space.
In Paudalho, Cacau was sick, so I was on my own—but the kids loved it, and have made some beautiful necklaces. The deal is they make two pieces of jewelry—and then they choose one to send to the States, and one to keep.
As we were coloring a picture about Self-control, the kids asked me “Well, what about when someone hits you? Don’t you hit them back?” And I told them my lovely story about being punched in the eye…and not punching back. They especially liked the part where I told them all the different colors my eye turned.
Please keep the Easter and Mother’s day programs in your prayers. If you would like to help financially to give the kids something special for one or both of these celebrations, then please let me know. In Cajueiro, we are planning a special mime presentation on Good Friday, and painting towels and wrapping lotion and soap inside it for special mother’s day gifts.
In Paudalho, all of the children who used to be in the program are invited back to the church to celebrate a cedar, like they have done for the past three years. This is an important time, not only because of the message, but to show the community that the church doors are still open to them after all the changes. In the past, tables are decorated with fresh bread and grapes, and the meaning of the first Passover, and well as the Lord’s supper are shared.
