Wednesday - July 25

Today God's love was shown all throughout the Philippine community. I was blessed today to serve with the Dentist for the first half of the clinic. Although I was faced with many challenges, such as being uncomfortable in the setting and unfamiliar with the equipment, I was soon able to adapt. The second part of the day is what God has forever touched my heart with. Unable to fully interact with kids while working with teeth, I was finally able to participate in leading a few kid games after lunch. At first it started off with shy, timid smiles and maybe a high-five here and there, but after a few rounds of Duck Duck Goose and Simon Says the Philippine children couldn't be separated from us. God's love had made a bond that could not be broken. Once the games had begun it was clear God was at work, the kids were inseparable from us; always holding our hands, attacking us with bear hugs (swarms of 50 kids at a time), teaching us words in Tagalog and ending with them fighting over a seat in our laps during sing time. Davie, A seven year old boy from the community will always have a special place in my life. From the start he was always sitting next to me resting his arm or head on my leg. He was all smile and giggles, truly the joy of the Lord. He followed me everywhere, asking me so many questions about my life back at home. The language barrier was a challenge but it was clear our friendship will continue once he said "We will celebrate together in Heaven." He will forever be my little Philippine boy! Leaving the clinic was one of the hardest things I have ever done. As we were driving away in our bus I was brought to tears as some of my Philippine girls followed the bus to continuously say goodbye to me. God has opened my eyes through this trip and I will forever be changed by what I have experienced this week. Thank you for your many prayers and encouragement. -Kaitlen