I have experienced the joys of being sick once again over the past two days. So has my fellow intern Katie. Thankfully, I haven’t been as sick as I was earlier this month. Katie, on the other hand, felt absolutely horrible. We haven’t been able to go to either of the orphanages here yet. We’re hoping that we both feel all better in the morning so we can enjoy our last day in the homes. On Friday, as I wrote earlier, we’re packing a lot, touring a little, and leaving!
Remember the picture I posted a couple of entries back, about the two brothers I met and connected with at the boys’ home we went to in Cusco? I’ll post it again to jog your memory. 
I’ve fallen in love with so many children this month, these boys among them. During our VBS program, Guili told Max Lucado’s story Tu Eres Especial (You Are Special). Afterwards, the kids were allowed to look at the books if they wanted to, and the older brother looked at one with me and read it to me. Then his younger brother came in to the schoolroom where some of us were reading with the kids and listened to the end of the story. They both really liked it even though they’re usually not too interested in books, according to the adults who work there. Then they loved taking pictures.
I saw them again at the carnival on Saturday, and they were excited to see me and remembered my name. I was so happy to see them, and it was such a joy to watch them experiencing some of the innocent delights of childhood. One moment is particularly engraved in my memory. We had a big enclosed trampoline at the carnival, and there were a few kids allowed on at a time. I happened to pass when it was the younger brother’s turn, and he was riding this little toy elephant inside and had the most ecstatic smile on his face.
And my heart yearned over them so when I had to say goodbye. I know it is probable that I will never see them again. But along with many other children I have met this month, I will never forget them, these children who have given to me more than they have probably received from me. My desire to adopt in the future has only been fueled further by meeting so many precious children who, blessed as they are to have food and shelter, are still without the security and comforts of home and family.
The short-term group we worked with in Cusco left on Sunday. At the farewell dinner, Robin, the wife of the trip leader, spoke a little. She said that God’s heart yearns over us with that same love we felt for the boys and girls we had met that week. I pictured those two brothers and my love for them. And I understood God’s love a little better. God’s love through me, and God’s love for me.
My heart is full.
Anna
