Performers to Partners

School 

was not in session, yet the room was filled   with children who had prepared a program just for us. Their colorful costumes were matched o nly by their beautiful smiles. After the welcoming speeches, the students performed several dances. To our surprise, they invited us to join in the dance. Each student came and grabbed one of our hands and the dance floor became alive with movement and laughter. What began as fun drew us into community with one another. By the time we said our goodbyes, we had bonded with those who would partner with us in the music workshop at La Cruz, the new school just outside the dump.

The connections we experienced today were a direct answer to the prayers we prayed as the day began. We had asked God to help us see, hear and experience what He had in store for us. Stace shared his connection with the music teacher, Oscar. Even though he plays 5 instruments, he did not own a guitar. The Lord had impressed on Stace the need for him to bring a guitar to leave here. Before our first 24 hours had passed, he promised to leave the guitar for him.   We will drop it off on Wednesday before we return home.

I was overwhelmed how quickly lesson plans were shared, improved upon and then led by the local teachers. What joy to share in a teaching partnership. I was so thankful for the suggestions given that will make the workshops in Cusmapa run much smoother.

It only took a few brief moments before the children connected to Riley, Ann Barfel's 9 yr. old grandson. Before we left, three other boys had a special connection and more than one girl was heard to say she liked Riley!

As we have shared meal times aound Cuban sandwiches, black bean soup and then Tip Top chicken, we have begun to learn about Peter's partership with Al and Charlene and the children of Nicaragua. Their passion to come alongside the people here to enable them to improve their lives is contagious. 

This day has been the beginning of building community within our group and the precious people of Esteli. We have seen love and apprecation. Marie said, "I saw how throwing a beanbag and helping a child paint a stick brought joy. On my first day, I have experienced the power of presence in the life of a child." Kevin summed it up in his few brief words,"It was a good day."

We cannot fix all the problems we see, but we are here to listen, learn and love. We go to bed eager for the new partnerships we will continue to explore and enjoy. Our prayer as we close our eyes tonight is for God to wrap His loving arms around our new friends and for His love to invade their lives so they will have hope not just for tomorrow but for all eternity.

E