Let the tears begin. We left Gleba-B today for the final time. This is the favela that AMO has been in the longest. It is also where most of the close relationships are at with the trips and the embrace-a-child program. Most of your students developed very close friendships with people in this community this week and saying goodbye to these friends is always very hard. It was realistic to see a few students break down in tears and a brokenness feeling as they left there new friends behind in a world that is unmanageable to think of someone living in, much less leaving someone behind that you care about.
We have reflection time at least every other day during these trips. This is a time where we share experiences and stories with one another to help the digestion process of all that is taken in every day down here. Tonight's reflection time was outside around a camp fire. It is always an enjoyable evening/experience that we end each week with. Again, this group is very level headed and hearing their perspectives about the week was encouraging and very enjoyable. There is a group of young adults returning to Smyrna as new people and with new perspectives on life. As parents/family you should be proud of yourself for allowing your student this experience. I promise you that the trip is worth the price of admission.
We have been able to share a few cultural experiences during this trip as well. Last Monday evening we went to a Brazilian pizzeria. That was an experience that I am sure you will hear about and see pictures of as well. I am sure you will hear about the ice cream pizza! Wednesday we had lunch at a Brazilian churrascaria. Same here as for pictures and stories. Tonight after the reflection camp fire we went into downtown Campo Limpo to eat (X tudo), a sandwich that is a walking heart attack. There is also the driving around in the bus and just seeing the cities and the people.
Chow for now. Again, be as proud of your students as I am. This may be my last post before we leave, therefore if so, we will see you Sunday morning at the airport. I will try to post again tomorrow before we leave for the airport here. I am thinking of posting a top 10 list of things that happened this week, but I was too afraid to post for fear of you misunderstanding the level of safety for your student. Hmmmm. There are stories to share that helped your students grow a little this week. Oti Logo (see you later in Brazilian Portuguese).
Im sure Jordan will come come back with a different perspective on alot of things and I have you and Gina to thank for this opportunity. Otherwise i'm not sure she would've gone w/out you 2. I'm grateful for all you do for these teenagers!!!
Posted by: Dawn Owens | March 26, 2010 at 09:58 PM
It is so awesome to hear how they have done this week. There was never a doubt in my mind that they would be awesome and jump right in to do whatever God asks of them. Their lives will never be the same, thank you heavenly Father.
Posted by: brandi dover | March 27, 2010 at 06:49 AM
Can't wait to see and hear the details. Thank you, See you Sunday.
Posted by: Dawn Adkins | March 27, 2010 at 07:33 AM