"Their future shines so bright, it burns my eyes."

By Jessica Montes

January 3, 2010

We went to church this morning at Centenary UMC. The service was about four and a half hours long. It was actually a beautiful service, and even more wonderful - because we got to sit by the children in the choir ... and a fan :) We each got a candle for 1 Leone to burn throughout the year and symbolize our covenant with God. Church here is a lot different than it is back at home. They dance up to the altar to give their offering and speak their prayers aloud. There wasn't enough room for us in the van so Ghanda walked Jeremy, Nicky, Tim, Barbara and I back to the CRC.

Later in the afternoon, we got to take a walking tour through Bo. I was graciously guided by Jeremy's pen pal, Abu. It was about 3 hours and very, very hot outside. We got to see the CKC, the boys school and walk through town. We got to see the live crocodile behind their school and the cemetery. The children refused to let go of our hands the whole time, even when we were both dripping with sweat and could barely hold onto each other. It's such a blessing to be able to feel so loved and show it so freely and fearlessly. I want to be able to live and love like they do - so honestly.