Last night Father Joe had a party for this 14 year old girl at Mercy who just recieved a FIVE year scholarship to study at a boarding school in Toronto. She gave a speech in front of all of her peers, the staff, 12 Polish visitors and the Ambassador to Poland and his wife. It was really moving and as she boldly stood up in front of this large group, saying her goodbyes, one by one, tears ran down her face. I thought about the first time I traveled alone to another country when I was her age. I was terrified and it was for only five weeks; I lasted about one and a half. She is leaving her Mercy home and her 24 "sisters" she has lived with and grown up with. Brave does not do her justice. As she said her goodbyes my eyes started to swell- I was so proud of her and I've never even met her. I see her often, walking around Mercy, and I wonder about what she must be thinking. She is due to leave in just a few days. I think about all I've learned this year in terms of support for international students. While we focused mostly on students in University, I thought- how do you support this 14 year old girl, her first time out of the country, literally traveling to the other side of the world? I am in awe of these children. She's going to be amazing, she is strong and smart and courageous.
After mingling with the staff, kids and Polish guests, Ben took me to Mercy 2, where he lives. It's just behind the Mercy Centre and is home to nearly 35 young boys- their ages range from 3 to 8 or 9. The room was busting at the seams with wild energy. I sat and read a few books with them before quiet time. Last night reminded me of why I am here. Nothing makes me happier than being with those little sponges. They soak up knowledge in a capacity I can't fathom. These kids are incredible and it's a nice reminder about what is important.
Today a young girl I tutor, only 14 years old, came and sat with me while I was writing. We chatted for almost an hour and she taught me some Thai. She told me there would be a test next week. Then she asked me if I was hungry; she had made Thai food with one of her friends. She was looking out for me (?!!). This generousity and unconditional kindness is such a beautiful aspect of the Thai culture.
I'm finished with lessons for the day. I snagged some ideas from my french teacher Maggie, back at SIT and made the kids do some acting and then helped out in the communications department, helping draft emails to bank officials and proposals for money to renovate some of the schools. Now I'm going to attempt a trip to Lumpini to get some exercize before I pop back over to Mercy 2- they're expecting me tonight for the rest of Alladin, the book.
Kids and education, two things I feel so passionately about- maybe a thesis is starting to take shape... Everyday your heart grows just a little bit bigger here at Mercy and one day I hope I can pay it all forward.
The library at Mercy, where the kids and I meet every morning for English lessons.
The courtyard. Quite the oasis. There is a really great story about the statue pictured, in the book about Father Joe.
The walls are lined with mosaics the kids made.
Last night's party.
Reading with the boys of Mercy 2.
**There's something so nice about not having a cell phone, no one can find you.. except for the kids :)
No comments:
Post a Comment