"Go into the world and do well. But more importantly, go into the world and do good." -Minor Myers Jr.
We spent the last afternoon of our trip visiting an orphanage in San Jose, the capitol. We weren't permitted to enter the orphanage as it was Sunday and visitation appointments are only held during the week when there is more staff working. The guard allowed us to talk with four orphan boys, Beto, Pablo, Michael and Ingan, through the rod-iron gates. The other orphans were eating lunch. The boys were as curious about us as we were them.
Our kids brought suckers that they passed through the bars. I couldn't help to think that even when there is a barrier, kindness can be shared. Our kids also donated two bags of their clothes to other children who may need them more.
Madelynn had many questions when we squished in the taxi to go back to our hotel. "Where are the house mothers? Where are all the other orphans? Why do they have to stay there? Are there little girls? Where do they play? Why couldn't we go in?"
Steven had an opposite question to ask me later that night, "Why can't they come out?" His eyes red and wet, "Why do we have privileges and these kids have a lifetime of sacrifice?" I couldn't find an answer to satisfy. Shaking my head I tried, "I don't know. The only thing I can think of is that God is preparing us. He has big plans. He has a mission for our lives." Steven described the boys inside the gates as caged spirits and then said, "I've never seen anything like this in my life."
The entire experience made me think of our trip and how my heart has always been interested in living abroad and helping others. I will never claim to know or understand the plans of God. I do hope though that someday our travels will involve more than the desire for some sunshine and swimming pools. I hope God will entrust us with a great mission, one that he specifically has designed us to do.
Family Flower: Hydrangea, which means NEW JOY
