Okay, so I said I wouldn't blog about the kids in Mexico this week, but I never said I wouldn't blog about Mexico in general.... so......
Tonight, I was talking to someone at church about the next trip. I was then informed that someone that is supposed to go on this next trip might not go anymore. Now, many people cancel on almost every trip, but it's always because of different obligations. Not this time. This time, this person might not go because we are not going to be doing a project. That's right. They are afraid that they won't know what to do when they are down there.
I understand when people are stretched by the fact that we don't organize any activities with the kids besides the pinata and that we don't do painting or other projects. I understand that they can be uncomfortable and even nervous by being around kids for hours at a time.
Yet, this is my problem. The weekend trips are only $40 a person or $100 for a family of 3, yet people still complain about the cost. Yet, projects and activities cost money. How can I add on a good $20-40 to have a decent project or activity for the kids when people already complain?
It's almost a no win situation. People get nervous by having to "entertain" or even just be around and play with the kids all day. I used to as well, but now I know them all too well to get that way. Yet. What would they prefer? This is what I don't know.
For me, I want to be able to show people that missions aren't always what they think. You don't have to go to serve every time. We can go just to love. Love is enough. Love is what they need.
In my trips this year, I have been down there with other groups many times. They always paint and do small projects. They end out spending maybe an hour hanging out with the kids.
So, tell me this.
If everyone goes down there to paint and do projects, then who is going to love on the kids? The staff is great, but it only consists of 9 people for 80 kids and they all have their own responsibilities (cooking, laundry, admin, psychologist, etc.). Kids need love. They want attention. They want to show people their tricks and have people ask them about their families.
Yes, it might be stretching at times, maybe even most of the time. But, it's worth it. Because these kids are actually getting what they need. Love. Guidance. Direction.... even Attention.
So, sorry if this seems harsh at all, it's not meant to be. I'm speaking out of frustration right now because I'm still processing it and I love these kids like they are my own.
Let me know your thoughts and if anyone has suggestions with how to deal with this.
About Me
- Hannah
- I am a 28 yr. old woman, and my biggest hope is to be a light admist this darkened world.
5 comments:
Just keep doing what you have been doing. Don't worry so much about making it the "perfect" trip for everyone. Those who are "called" to come will be there! Maybe restate your vision to those participating. Explain that the ultimate mission is to serve the kids. This is best accomplished by spending quality time with them. This is not to say that there isn't a time and place for projects. God has put this passion inside you and I believe you hear what He wants for the kids each time. Right now you are in a season of building relationships with the kids. Maybe in the future he will move you to serve them in a differnt way. Be confident in who you are in Him. Can you talk to this person and like I said explain the current vision?
Thanks for being at the Harvest Festival and letting my kid go down the slide a couple of extra times...she deserves special treatment. I am sad it was my last Harvest Festival...why didn't you ave me from the whipped cream attackers???
Thanks Amy. I think you're right. I try to explain my vision to people, but I think they are still shocked when they get down there, and that's okay. It's funny, because it's the people that I wonder if they're having fun the whole time that end out recruiting more people and wanting to go back again.
Obie tried to get me and DD to "help him", but we didn't know what it was about. We had a feeling it was a prank of some sort, so we took off! Sorry, I had no idea you were the victim. :)
Addi can have extra turns anytime!
Okay...I guess your excused! Obie has no idea who he is messing with!!
Hannah,
J and I used to go down to Mexico all the time when we lived in Albuquerque. For me, it wasn't the "work" that got me there, it was the kids. Just being able to sit with them and fly a kite or play frisbee was great. I think a lot of people just feel like they have to "do" something. They don't realize that sometimes that just requires play and attention. It's almost as if they feel guilty that that is what they are doing. Funny....but wasn't the play and attention to children what Jesus loved the most?
I agree with Amy - just keep doing what you are doing. You are a blessing to those kids! That's all that matters.....
I'm not nervous at all about going. I am looking forward to serving those kids. I went to Camp Barnabas, so what is there to be nervous about. The only thing I am a wee bit nervous about is the language barrier as I don't speak a lick of Spanish. But you can love them even with the language barrier.
I also agree with you that it does not have to be about a "work project". I think that loving on those kids is more important anyhow.
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