NOW IS THE HOUR

We had the opportunity every night to go to the children's hostel and spend a little quiet time with them, either reading or telling stories, or just talking quietly.

One night at dinner, my parents were relating the previous night's "tucking the kids in bed" ritual, mentioning that they had sung a lullaby to the kids before they left. Of course, they were urged by the volunteers to sing it again, and my parents obliged.

It was a song my parents sang to me when I was little, and it always carried a touch of sadness with it. It captured the sort of bittersweet feeling I had saying goodbye to everyone at Rising Star on our last day. It's amazing how much love you can receive and reciprocate in such a short amount of time. And suddenly you have to say good bye, knowing you've probably walked out of the life of these wonderful human beings for this life time.

The day was the best last day we could have had. Leprosy colonies during the morning, and playtime in the afternoon. I looked forward to spending a bit of time with the girls at bedtime. The girls wanted Brianna and me to sing, so we taught them a few little songs we sung as children. They loved the music, and asked us to write it down for them so they could remember. We did. Our time was too short, and it was time to leave. After heartfelt good byes, we left. As I walked back to my hostel I kept thinking of the lullaby.

Now is the hour

When we must say good bye.

Soon you'll be sailing

Far across the sea.

While you're away

Oh please remember me.

When you return,

You'll find me

Waiting here.

 I'm so grateful for the blessing of be able to work at Rising Star Outreach. I made memories there that I will never forget, and I hope that I can be a better person because of this experience. :)