Wednesday, July 2, 2008

Day 2 From Others





From Wayne & Carroll
Today was a very sad day. We got news about 10:00AM that Gilbert passed away. Of course this has greatly affected Pamela and Patrick and the school. We all had a great day inspite of all the sadness. The team is stepping in and doing so many wonderful things and the teachers are so grateful. The children are precious and blessing us everyday. Thanks for your wonderful prayer support. God is good and we are so grateful for everything. We are so thankful to have Bethany and Megan here. Megan is really enjoying the children and they love having her here. She taught the kids to do cartwheels today, which is part of the western dance. Blessings, Carroll

From Betsy & Pati
We’ve had 2 days at school. So delighted with kids’ response in the classroom. Yesterday we did an introduction to Romeo & Juliet by having kids act out different characters – We had a Bobble head Shakespeare to introduce the play and yellow swords for Capulet and green for Montague. Kids really got into it. Classroom is 30’ by 10’ – no electricity – 2 windows open onto a very loud courtyard. Everything here is high volume – children everywhere. You can tell street kids from school children by the uniforms. Today we reviewed Romeo & Juliet and students remembered the story – always a positive sign 0 and kids read Act I out loud from an adapted Shakespeare. The kids read well out loud and were so caring to each other when someone didn’t know a word – they jumped in and helped. We were so moved as we watched the children & the teacher examine the books- they held pure magic in their hands – a thing so rare – we have ended the lesson each day with Juliet’s line – “Parting is such sweet sorrow that we shall say good night until it be tomorrow.”

10 comments:

Anonymous said...

hey byby. we sure do miss you here, but am glad all is well there. the girls are well. livy told me yesterday "i want to go live with byby" i told her she could just as soon as you got back and she said, "call her and tell her to come home" we are counting the days til your return. big love from your 3 girls. xoxo

Anonymous said...

you two are amazing!
shakespere in kenya
how cool is that.
xoxoxo
molly

Anonymous said...

I am sorry to learn of Gilbert's death - his loss deeply saddens his family, all the Mercy Care family, and his many friends. We offer our deepest sympathy to all of you.

In the joy of reading so many wonderful accounts from so many of you, it was also neat to have some good humor. I think that Betsy's (or Pati's) spelling of Capulates is truly distinctive and revealing.

Shalom to one and all,
Steve and your Peakland family

Anonymous said...

Betsy,Tyler,and Axi: Gena sends love to all of you-Am having a wonderful time reading about your adventures. You are making an important difference in the chilren's lives and my hopes and prayers are with you every day.

Anonymous said...

I am heartsick to hear of Pamela's father's death. It has to be so rough on Patrick, caring for 21 guests and his sweet family. Please give them my love. God has to be thrilled to have Gilbert "home", after doing so much for others on this earth! Just look at what he leaves for so many with Mercy Care.

Hug that dear, sweet Panina tight for me please!

What a treat your comments are for us at home. Thank you for taking the time to write in detail, all that you are doing. I would love to be there in person, to see everything! Stay safe.
Much, much love,
Purnell

Anonymous said...

Our hearts are sadden to hear of Father Gilbert's death. Please let Pamela and Patrick know that we are praying for them. I know that God has smiled down on him many times in all that he has accomplished in helping the children of Mathare Valley. What a crown he will have to lay at the feet of Christ. Each one of you are "building blocks" of that ministry and I know that God is smiling down on each of you as you give of yourselves to the children, the staff and to Pamela and Patrick at this time. Our prayers continue to be with each of you.
With Love,
The Greenes in NC

Anonymous said...

It's great to hear from you all and to see the pictures. I think of you and the children often. I know it will be an awesome experience for all of you. In my thoughts and prayers - enjoy every moment together.

Laura (ECGHS)

Diedre said...

So great to hear about Shakespeare in Kenya! Christ came so that we "may have life, and have it more abundantly." Sounds like you two are getting a BIG dose of the abundant life! Have fun and be blessed; I know you are blessing others.

Diedre

Anonymous said...

Betsy,
You are a true teacher and leader.Your kids are so lucky to have you,and they will be so inspired by you and all others.Thanks for making this world a better place.
Love you,
Becky

Anonymous said...

So wonderful to read your blog! It sounds like you are really making connections for the kids...amazing. Stay safe!
Deb Serio