By Haylee Hunt
After months and months of preparing mentally, physically and financially, Spring Break was finally here! Think of the phrase “Spring Break.” What comes to mind? Lying by the pool or beach, or a week-long camping trip? Well for me, it brings to mind lasting memories of serving the Lord alongside 14 other Shorter students. I was blessed with the opportunity to serve in Tres Rios, Costa Rica.
The plane finally landed in Costa Rica, and as I stepped on to the sidewalk, I instantly felt the joy and reassurance of the Lord. I looked in every direction and knew I was exactly where I was supposed to be. It was then I knew Costa Rica had stolen part of my heart. I could go on for days about all that I experienced while I was there. I experienced first hand the healing of teammates that were sick with a stomach bug one day and healthy the next. I experienced selflessness through gifts from so many precious Costa Rican children and one lady who worked at the airport. However, my most memorable moment during the week was meeting “Mamá” and her 43 children.
“Mamá” is a beautiful woman with a huge heart for the Lord. She has six children of her own and 43 children from all different walks of life. She takes in the children not because she feels like she needs to but because she loves their hearts and wants them to know Jesus as their Lord and Savior. She cares for all 43 by herself with only the money from her husband’s retirement pension. She is a perfect example of living by faith.
While I was at her house, I met a 10-year-old little girl with a survival story like none other. She was born a healthy baby, but because of many beatings from her biological father, she lost the ability to cry. As a result of a traumatic brain bleed from the beatings, she developed a disability called Cerebral Palsy.
I instantly connected with her. It was then I knew why the Lord sent me to Costa Rica. I thank Him everyday for allowing me to be a part of the team in Costa Rica, but I thank Him most of all for that little girl. She reminded me of what it means to be grateful for what I have. That 10-year-old girl has left a lasting impression on my heart.
My heart longs to be in the thick of a sea of big brown eyes and the beam of bright white teeth. I am thankful that I have the opportunity to go back this summer to teach English to all 43 children. I cannot think of a more joyous place to me than in the midst of the Lord’s youngest children.
