Ball Pits and Christmas Cards

Thursday I had the opportunity to tag along with a group taking snacks and diapers to an orphanage. Part of its name actually refers to it as a town, and it has the size to match. We parked near the building where the children were and brought the supplies in it. Then it was time for a tour.

The children range from ages zero to four. A separate building houses unwed mothers. The building we entered kept children, some sensible toys, and the ultimate ball pit on the first floor. Most of the kids kept pretty busy.

One four year old found me and decided to give me a tour of the place. He led me by the pinky until a Poo Bear bicycle caught his eye. Then he decided to ride that instead.

Later he wanted to be held. Every time I'd start to let go, he would get more footing and wrap his arms around my neck. Thankfully, it was time to eat when we had to go, or he might not have let me leave. He has a good sense of priorities.

We promised to return, then made our way to our respective homes.

Friday I joined a meeting with students interested in going on a short-term missions trip to India or the Philippines. I assured those interested in India that India is not on the restrictive travel list. Another teacher added the fact that Mumbai is far and in the opposite direction from where we are going. Of course there were problems nearby, but thankfully those blew over.

Later that day I had some students make Christmas cards for elderly ladies in the Grandma House. I explained I would visit with some students and teachers the following day. Everyone used Korean, some used English, two used Japanese and one used Russian.

The next day a student would remind me the Japanese might not be a good idea, and I remembered some of the ladies were probably alive during the occupation. But I finally decided my students can't help who they are. And they did use Korean as well.

Saturday our PE teacher graciously drove our group to the grandma house, where we brought the cards and some towels as requested, then drank coffee and waited to be put to work. We didn't have to wait long.

We cleaned the floors, and I noted that some of our students consider work punishment. I was impressed as they seemed to enjoy themselves.

An hour later, we rinsed out our cleaning rags, ate some pears, then gathered up our list of Christmas carols. We spent the twenty minute ride teaching the songs to the students, as many didn't know them. This was not a good week for me to have a cold. Regardless, we sang without hurting anyone. That's always a plus.

Three songs passed, and it was time for the residents to eat. That seems to be our exit cue.

We said our goodbyes, then drove off to find a lunch of our own.