Friends

Today was a wonderful and sad day. We had a great celebration with all of the teachers who went through the summer teacher institute. They have become such good friends and I think this is because we are brothers and sisters in Christ.

We started the day out with a formal graduation ceremony, complete with special music, speeches, and presentation of gifts and certificates. The teachers came this morning with big smiles on their faces and dressed in their very best. It is so neat to greet each other with hugs and warmest welcomes. I am going to miss this community of teachers very much! There seems to always be a friend to talk with, someone to laugh with, and someone to pray with. What an inexpressible blessing and encouragement these amazing teachers have been to me! I only hope that I can return to my school with half the enthusiasm and cooperative spirit that they demonstrated this summer!

After a wonderful time of ceremony and celebration, we piled in the trucks and drove out to a beautiful outdoor restaurant associated with a local museum. The teachers were so excited to be out and their laughter filled the air as we explored, took pictures, and waited for the meal to begin. Below are pictures of the teachers I worked most closely with this summer (Back row from the left: Mr. Riliere- the new principal, Mr. James- third grade, Mr. Walner- French, Mr. Esaie- fourth grade, Miss Renelda- sixth grade, Mr. Patrick- late bloomers, Front Row: Miss Desir- sixth grade, me, and Mr. Jack- fifth grade and Spanish). We took one picture "Haitian style" which means we didn't smile, then, after some laughter, we took the second photo which demonstrates the kind, welcoming, and loving nature of these new friends.

We enjoyed a wonderful meal together complete with lots of laughter, teasing, and words of encouragement. It was a wonderful way to end our time together. We lingered as long as we could before piling back up into the trucks and heading our separate ways. With sorrow in my heart I gave hugs all around and we all promised to be praying for each other. The friendships made with these teachers was not expected, but I believe it was a completely divine work. God knew that drawing us all together would build up His church, and would give us more opportunity to praise Him. As I look forward to returning home tomorrow, I want to keep this heart for Christian community. I pray that I could encourage and support my brothers and sisters back home the way that these new friends have encouraged and supported me. Thank you for following along with me on the last few moments of this journey! Love in Christ, Jessie