Soccer, a Universal Language
Our last day in the village. We’ve worked together, prayed together, and sung together. Today it was time to play together.
But first, a visit to the local school. Since his fellow teacher was hurt in a motorcycle accident in June, Maestro Joseph, a terrific young man, has been the sole instructor for 53 students, grades 1-6, in two separate classrooms. Despite the lack of support from the government, he remains passionate about teaching and clearly cares for his students.
And then it was time for celebration! Frisbees, bubbles, jump rope, soccer, and around two hundred people filled the community field and surrounding area. We’re talking serious soccer here, organized teams of adults in their team shirts. And a few turkeys. Seriously, a few real live turkeys that rambled onto the field every now and then. Mike and Ryan represented us well on their respective teams, despite Ryan’s soccer shirt that was obviously several sizes too small.
After lunch, we shared a “typical” American birthday party, complete with party hats, noisemakers, kazoos, leis, and eight small cakes carefully cut into tiny pieces so that everyone could have a taste. Paul graciously agreed to be our “birthday boy,” so to a rousing rendition of “Happy Birthday” sung in Spanish and English simultaneously, he blew out the candles, which repeatedly relit, drawing hysterical laughter from the crowd.
S'mores!!
The “bombas de agua” water balloon toss was a smash hit, in every sense of the term. Chaos reigned. Pin the Tail on the Donkey was especially popular, particularly with the adults, much to our surprise. The grand finale? S’Mores! Thirty people at a time crowded around smoldering coals, gooey marshmallow sticks, and smiles on faces young and old are memorable images we’ll carry with us.
After a heartfelt and tearful farewell, we departed Bella Vista, grateful for the opportunities to serve with and be served by the hard-working and loving families of this special community. How to respond to such caring, as well as such need? We left what we could: children’s books for the new preschool, supplies for the grade school, a guitar for worship in the community center, and sewing and craft supplies, which may spur microeconomic enterprises. We join with our dear friends in Bella Vista in praising God for the incredible progress witnessed over time, and pray that God will continue to bless our mutual efforts to do God’s kingdom work here in the mountains of Honduras.
How fantastic!! Thanks so much for the news and pictures. We are eager to hear more, and are praying you home.