October 27, 2009

“I promise myself
To be so strong that nothing can disturb my peace of mind.
To talk health, happiness, and prosperity to every person I meet.
To make all my friends feel that there is something worthwhile in them.
To look at the sunny side of everything and make my optimism come true.
To think of only the best, to work only for the best
and to expect only the best.
To be just as enthusiastic about the success of
others as I am about my own.
To forget the mistakes of the past and press on to the
greater achievements of the future.
To wear a cheerful expression at all times and give a smile
to every living creature I meet.
To give so much time to improving myself that I
have no time to criticize others.
To be too large for worry, too noble for anger, to strong for fear,
and too happy to permit the presence of trouble.
To think well of myself and to proclaim this fact to the world,
not in loud words, but in great deeds.
To live in the faith that the whole world is on my side,
so long as I am true to the best that is in me.”
-Christian D. Larson, submitted by Pam

The day started with Ben and Pamela teaching. Rich and I decided to video Forms 1A and 1B. The children spoke about the challenges of the school – everything from water, textbooks, kitchen supplies, teachers, desks, chairs. A few times my eyes filled up with tears. There is so much that can be done at this school with proper organization. It is my hope to help long after I return to the USA.

We carried bricks for an hour which was great until we stopped and couldn’t start because headmaster was concerned that it was too much. Specifically Rich – didn’t want him to have his heart hurt.

After being told to rest we gave in. Then went for a walk with a few students for Fanta and sugar cane.

Rich and Ben BOTH injured their thumbs trying to cut the sugar cane.

It was an early night. I’m hoping to work to the end. My heart in filled with love for the children of this village. – Cheryl