Blood and Sweat

Before yesterday, the only slums I had seen were in the movies, and even then they were more glamorous than real life. The dirt paths that ran in between the shacks were filled with garbage, dogs, pee, and naked children. I went to a "library" in the slums to read books and draw with the young kids, who would come and go. After about an hour a girl, no more than eight, walked in with her infant sister. It shocked me and helped me realize how quickly these kids have to grow up and that after the age of five they have the responsibilities of an adult. I then went to the English class and read a paper with the teachers to help them learn the proper way to speak the English language. The teacher was so excited to learn how to properly speak the English language because it will allow him to teach his students better. It was incredible! The next day we returned to the orphanage. This time my job was to help begin building the foundation for the girls' dorm. It was honestly the hardest work I have ever done. The labor was brutal and the fire ants were viscous, but in the end I had never been so proud of my work. I love each and every kid there no matter how young or old, and they each already have a spot in my heart. I've given my sweat and even blood to this trip, and I know when I leave the tears will come.