It was realized by both my son and I that when you give of yourself, all of yourself, your reward will be tenfold. He and I became closer than ever on this trip.

I enjoyed the children at VBS, especially Omed. He acted like a tough guy but he had a huge heart. I also enjoyed talking to Louis at the nursing home.

Meeting Richard who was asked by Pastor B to help finish the construction work, learning of his self inflicted wounds/suicide attempt was something that meant a lot to me. Treating him medically and praying with him. Then he returned the following day, met and prayed with so many from our team as well as Pastor B and his wife. We could finally see hope in his eyes.

While we were cleaning the church Osman, Justine, Karee, Victor and I all cleaned up trash and swept the porches. All of the kids began helping before Mrs. Brenda told them about playing sports and all or them did a great and thorough job while cleaning.

Matt and I got the opportunity to bond with this 10 year old boy named Victor. He was either following me or Matt all week. At the end of the week we took him to the store and bought him so candy, chips, and a drink. We sat for a while and ate together. We talked for a while and then Victor had to go home, so Matt and I watched him walk down the street. We turned to each other and he said to me, “we may never see him again.” I said, “That’s depressing, but maybe we can come back some time.” I know we both intend to.

On the last day of our trip in San Ignacio, I was talking with this kid John who came to VBS and the sports ministry every day. Saying goodbye to him was harder than I had imagined it would be, but it made me realize how much I truly cared for the kids I met during the trip.

I enjoyed playing soccer with a few of the boys and Michael. They didn’t even care that I was not good at soccer, because they just wanted someone to have fun with.