Today began with visiting a public kindergarten where two Sisters of the Good Shepherd volunteer once a week. I helped Sr. Digna and Sr. Judy prepare sandwiches and cakes for the children. The program serves about 40 children from three to five years old.
In addition to the food, we gave gifts to children who have birthdays coming up. Given the poverty, these gifts may be the only ones the children will receive.
The children were great fun to interact with. One girl proudly counted to 10 in English. In return, I taught a few English words to some of the children.
I'm always struck by how easy it is to make little children happy. If they feel loved and secure, and if they are given some food and treats, they are quite delighted to be alive and to be with their friends. As an adult, it's great to help children discover their own happiness.
The primary work of the two Sisters is administering a micro financing project. Low income people, primarily women, are provided small, no-interest loans to help them start or expand a business. The businesses are located in a huge open air market where all manner of things can be purchased.
However, the micro financing project is not just about finances. Each week the participants gather to discuss other ways their lives could be improved.
Reflecting on both the kindergarten program and the micro financing project, I am reminded that our world is held together by people simply willing to do acts of kindness for other people.
Political advocacy is important. However, we need these daily works of love to affirm our humanity and the humanity of our neighbors.
In addition to the food, we gave gifts to children who have birthdays coming up. Given the poverty, these gifts may be the only ones the children will receive.
The children were great fun to interact with. One girl proudly counted to 10 in English. In return, I taught a few English words to some of the children.
I'm always struck by how easy it is to make little children happy. If they feel loved and secure, and if they are given some food and treats, they are quite delighted to be alive and to be with their friends. As an adult, it's great to help children discover their own happiness.
The primary work of the two Sisters is administering a micro financing project. Low income people, primarily women, are provided small, no-interest loans to help them start or expand a business. The businesses are located in a huge open air market where all manner of things can be purchased.
However, the micro financing project is not just about finances. Each week the participants gather to discuss other ways their lives could be improved.
Reflecting on both the kindergarten program and the micro financing project, I am reminded that our world is held together by people simply willing to do acts of kindness for other people.
Political advocacy is important. However, we need these daily works of love to affirm our humanity and the humanity of our neighbors.
RSS Feed