I’m back at school again! If you read my last blog post, you know that my ministry works with a small school for the disabled. On most days, I will help kids with a craft or teach them a little bit of English. One of the days I went to ministry, I got to celebrate Memita’s birthday! She is one of the girls at the school who I teach and have loved getting to know. She always has this huge smile on her face every time I see her. I honestly didn’t think it could get any bigger! Well when she was taken outside to the party that was set up for her, her smile was from ear to ear. She was so excited. Her cousins, grandfather, and mom were there and were so excited to throw a party for her. She was turning 13 years old!
Before the party started, her mom prayed. I wasn’t able to understand most of the prayer, but her emotions painted a picture more than any words.
She was just sobbing.
I got to watch a mom celebrate her daughter for making it to her 13th birthday. I don’t know Memita’s story very well, but from what I can gather, it has been hard for her and her family. Memita is in a wheelchair, yet she doesn’t let that stop her from making people smile. Her mom was crying out of thanks. She was so grateful for another year with her daughter. No matter what Memita was going through, no matter what condition her daughter had, she was still thanking God.
Watching that was so sweet and heartwarming. Words can’t describe how I felt, but I just wanted to give Memita’s mom the biggest hug. I honestly think God was smiling down on Memita and her mom, just for their faith and for their thanks for everything, even in hard situations.
After the prayer, a colorful piñata was brought out. I got the honor of holding it while the kids tried to hit it to get the candy out. Memita was first and all of her friends followed. After everyone had gone, I was given a chance to swing at it. Who knew hitting a paper mache watering can could be so much fun? We had cake and sang happy birthday to Memita before having to head out.
I honestly love that little moment so much. It was a moment filled with joy and gratitude. It was amazing because it was a sweet reminder to thank God for the present. Tomorrow isn’t promised, but praising God for the little and big moments is something that I can do. Even in the hard times of not understanding why, God is still working all things for our good.
– Lauren
