This weekend I had the opportunity of going to Tijuana to serve an orphanage with my church. Let me start off by saying, I've been praying for quite some time to find a way for me to serve that felt fitting to my wants, strengths, and abilities. I had been searching for volunteer opportunities but nothing ever felt quite right--either my heart wasn't really in in, it didn't fit in my schedule, or it wasn't on a consistent basis. I am so happy that God answered my prayers with this opportunity, it fits everything I need plus more.
On Saturday, I woke up early and met with 20 other volunteers (some apart of the church and others not). We parked our cars at the US side of the border, walked across, and then took prearranged buses to the orphanage. I don't remember the name of the area exactly, but the orphanage was a good 30 minute drive from the border. The area was rural, at the top of a hill in which we had to travel on a very bumpy dirt road.
Upon seeing the house, I did not have any culture shock. I have been to Tijuana many times (my ex-boyfriend's siblings live there), and so I was used the differences in terms of living conditions. The orphanage is ran/directed by a couple. The government brings them the orphans, but does not offer them much support in terms of financing and supplies. There were about 60 kids of all ages; there was a 2 month baby all the way to teenagers.
The kids were great! I was surprised by how receptive they were, especially having a stranger come into their home. Right away, a baby wanted me to pick him up and so I carried him all day. These kids have little, yet had such huge smiles on their faces. There were some communications barriers, but it was such a great opportunity to use my Spanish (yes another blessing!) And honestly, the kids just want to play and interact so language isn't too big of a problem.While we were there we did arts and crafts, played games, and taught them a little bit of English. We also provided them with lunch and supplies that we had brought from the US. Another cool thing we do is write a check to help pay the bills for the month. The biggest surprise for me was when a pre-teen boy came up to me and just hugged me. I saw him around but I hadn't really played/talked with him during the day. Sometimes you just need a hug and you need to be held, and as an orphan I know that may be hard to come by.
I am looking forward to continuing with this ministry and building relationships with these kids. I want to continue to give back to them with both time and donations. I want these children to know that there are people that love them and are there for them. I came back to the United States with a blessed and grateful heart.
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