Everyday Occurrences

As I rode atop the rickshaw to language class, a crowd was gathering beside the road. I watched and wondered what they were doing.

I searched the scene; they were gathering around a large tree. They were tying red string, offering flowers, placing candles, sweets, and idols around the tree.

Later I learned that worship of this tree had begun only hours before. The tree had caught on fire sometime in the early morning hours.

It had been suggested that this tree was holy, because it had caught on fire. Therefore, the tree had become an object of worship.

Some worship in amazement, some worship in fear. May those who worship created things come to know the Creator of all things.

~Heather

Some days

As I sat in the hospital neurological clinic waiting room, I was greeted by the smiles and gazes of beautiful children. These children were so much like other children I have loved and served.

They live with a variety of abilities. These children don't walk, they don't use words to speak. These children and families learn to live and function with very special needs.

As I watched parents and others interact with these children, I gazed in wonder, and somewhat of a sense of longing.

A smile swept across my face as one would giggle with glee as a song was sung or a game was played.

Some days I miss serving special needs families in their homes. Some days I miss the classroom. Some days I miss the joy of seeing a child master a new skill.

The work the Father has before me looks so different now than it did in years past. Some days I wonder if I am up to this challenge. Some days I wonder what the days ahead will include.

Today I am choosing to be thankful for today and the task that is before me, but I will always look back in amazement and look forward with wonder.

I am planning to soon visit a center that provides services for children and families with special needs.

Please join me in asking the Father for His guidance in how He may choose to involve me in the special needs community of M-town.

~Heather

A birthday to remember

Children's birthday parties bring to mind hamburgers & hotdogs, clowns & balloons, laughing & playing.
An Indian First Birthday Party (especially for a little boy) is unlike any 1st birthday party you may picture.
Ridit's first birthday party was certainly an unforgettable night.

The party had dancers, DJ's, a host & hostess, animals dressed in costumes, fried snacks, cake, sweets, a full sit down dinner, a train for children to ride, take home boxes of Indian sweets, and professional photographers & videographers.

Even the invitation was quite extravagant!

~Heather

Color Day

I think we are offically part of the community now. The ladies came to get us this morning to come out and play "Holi." And, when things started to slow down and we were evidently cold, Auntie told us it was time to go in to take a warm shower and put clean clothes on.

We are truly blessed.

~Heather