Let me tell you about my friends...

Nathaniel is a 10 year old boy who has more gumption for life than anyone I’ve met. He has a smile that spreads across his face. We enjoy chatting about school and how he likes learning. He tells me about his soccer skills and laughs at me when I try to kick a ball. He has a true servant heart and is always looking for ways to help us during Kids Club.

Romeino is my personal translator. Each day I’m at Mountain View she helps me understand what is being said in Afrikaans. Her face lights up each time she explains something because she always want to be a helper. She loves to wear dresses and be “girly.” We enjoy chats about nail polish, hairstyles, and her day.

Lorenzo is my quiet, shy friend who looks for me until I find him. He is a man of little words, but I know his heart is full of love for others. He always listens intently as we teach during Kids Club and can answer articulately. When we color, he always shows off his masterpieces with pride on his face. He especially loves to play the jumping game I created for the kids. I know if there is any spare second then he will be by my side ready to jump!!

Amber and Bianca are my pals with a rough exterior but who just desire to be kids. It took a few weeks before they opened up, but once they did, they haven’t stopped. As they plat my hair before club we chat about their days, family, hopes and dreams. I can tell their demeanor is changing, and they are beginning to realize what beautiful, amazing, valued children of God they are.

Kyle is my buddy with all the energy!! He is the child you know is a discipline problem in the classroom, but all he wants is love. All he wants is for people to see him as important. Every time he tells me about a soccer play or adventure he went on, I love listening intently and nodding my head at the important parts. He has quite the stories so he helps keep my imagination alive and active!!

Keisha and Alisha are my friends who remind me to embrace the inner child. Our time is spent singing songs, laughing, and dancing. Their smiles light up the room and remind me that we must embrace every moment.

Jarrod is my little man. He is only four but acts like he is forty. He has a laugh that could even make the stoic crack a smile. He is very, very bright and each time we hang out he tells be his numbers and letters. He loves being reminded of what a smart boy he is. He loves making others laugh and always wants to be the center of attention.

These are just a few of my friends I’ve made thus far. Each child that comes into Kids Club brightens my heart. More than that, they each have a part of my heart. These are children for whom I want the best. These are friends who I will be fighting for justice, reconciliation, restoration, and compassion for for the rest of my life. For Christ himself stated, “Let the little children come to me and do not hinder them for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these.” (Luke 18:16)