Message of the day – Krista

The [wo]man in the mirror can make a change in the world

Lyrics from Michael Jackson’s “Man in the Mirror”

I’m gonna make a change
For once in my life
It’s gonna feel real good,
Gonna make a difference
Gonna make it right…

I’m starting with the man in the mirror
I’m asking him to change his ways
And no message could have been any clearer
If you wanna make the world a better place
Take a look at yourself,
and then make a change.

“The purpose of life is not to be happy – but to matter, to be productive, to be useful, to have it make some difference that you lived at all.” – Leo Rosten

Journal by: Kerry

Today started out early for me as I misread my watch and came down for breakfast at 7am instead of 8. After a few empty moments, a light bulb went off in my head and I realized my mistake. Oh well, a little more time to catch Wimbledon matches.

Breakfast came with delight. Terri and I with our oranges and cereal for the rest! Coffee and more coffee! Jane still feeling under the weather, so she will rest again today. Poor baby! I have to just say that the women I have come to know are “extraordinary”. Selfless, caring and enthusiastic are just some of the words that come to mind!

And so we made our way to St Nick’s to find the children waiting with open arms full of energy.

Terri and I went to see Raul first to witness and to help Coca change his many bandages. This sweet baby was inconsolable, screaming in sheer pain. But our steady “Mama” cooed and went about the necessary regimen cleaning, medicating and quickly rebandaging his many lesions. With such finesse and care she forged ahead through his tears, his screams and his absolute anger. Once clothes were on, she held him and cooed him with such grace. She is a saint!!!

Once upstairs the morning continued with giggles, play and soft touch.

There was a visit from an older couple looking to observe our dear Paola as prospective parents so we shall see…

Morning passed, bottles distributed and we all convened for lunch. Salad and turkey served, we then took a quick trip to observe a placement centre nearby. A nice social worker took us on a tour and we entered one of the “homes” full of well-taken care of children. To our great surprise, some of our past cherubs were there, getting lots of hugs and kisses. Sammy was my highlight. He was such a gracious host!

As we returned early, the fresh air begged us to breathe. And then the sad news that we were losing 3 of the children. Gabby, Michaela and Katerina were being released. Some of us went to say goodbye and some chose to stay outside quietly. Our sweet Emily found it difficult and chose to sit quietly. When they came out with their guides, Gabby and Michaela came over for more kisses with Coca. It all happened so fast!

The afternoon sped by with more feedings and lots of love! Another day is done and all looked forward to some well deserved rest. Till tomorrow, my friends!

PS. I must apologize, for I think I have messed up the sequence of events! Pardon!!