A friend of mine told me yesterday that the movie “A Christmas Carol” makes him reflect on his year. He thinks of what he’s done well and what he could do better next year. I don’t normally get those end of the year reflections. Perhaps I reflect more at the end of a school year. I know that I do think a lot about my own behaviour and that of others.

With Christmas being just a few days away I’ve found myself wondering about my friends and family as they relate to my orphan care project. From the very beginning of this endeavour I have been both amazed and frustrated by people’s enthusiasm. Every time someone makes a generous donation I am amazed at the idea that they believe in what I am doing. There are donations coming from people that I don’t even know. There are donations coming from people who obviously have no vested interest in the success of failure of the project.

This past week was the last week of school before the holidays. At this time of year teachers often receive gifts of chocolates, gift cards, scarves and other tokens of appreciation for what we do. I was pleasantly surprised so many times this past week. I received an email from one mm who wished to make a donation in lieu of a gift for me. I was touched by her thoughtful gesture because that is what I had hoped many would do. I was even more touched when I read her card. She suggested I use the money to buy shoes for the orphans. This means she has read the blog. I couldn’t believe she would take the time to read and then respond in such a thoughtful way.

So many touching things happened this week. It made me almost uncomfortable. A family whose son I taught last year made an incredibly generous donation which came as a complete surprise. I am getting teary now as I think of this kind family and their sweet gesture.

The grade three classes in my school worked so hard to make and sell ribbons in support of the Itatu children. The students were very excited to make posters and promote the orphan care throughout the school. They raised enough money to feed all of the orphans for 3 weeks. They should be very proud of their efforts. Their enthusiasm was very inspiring.

This holiday season has generated a good amount of money for the kids in Malawi. Of course when I decided to start the orphan care I planned to work independently. Charitable status, donations and a website are all ideas that came after the initial decision. I am very much indebted to all of you who have donated money, skills, energy and enthusiasm.

There have been moments of frustration. There are people that I had hoped would want to be involved that have chosen not to at this time. There are people who know the struggles I am facing but seem uninterested in assisting. What I am trying to learn from this frustration is that not everyone shares the same passions. I should not take lack of interest personally. Everyone has their own life to live and their own goals to achieve. I believe in what I am doing. I am prepared to do it alone and I am grateful for any assistance that is offered. I continue to be surprised and touched by the generosity of those who have helped the children. Thank you all.

Tags: malawi, orphan care, orphans

Share This: