
We have been preparing for weeks for this event. For safety reasons these children's activities are limited and the hosts are asked to plan low-injury activities. They are not allowed to watch much television and never allowed on the computer. The choir consists of all ages and the assignments are made by the sponsors. Since I didn't know what ages to prepare for I bought general craft supplies. After so long in education I thought surely I could entertain children with some art activities. I had my children's books, written for ages 5-8 to read to them. I was set. Then I thought what if I am assigned boys? Will they want to sit and color or play board games? So as I was looking around the store I spotted water pistols. I bought some--just in case.
We met at the church to receive the children. The director gave us some history of the children's countries, explained the rules and how the choir has changed the lives of these children. He told about receiving the children who had such low self-esteem they wouldn't even look you in the eye. He talked about the hope and self-esteem these children have now after receiving the love of host families. Then it was time for the assignments.

When my children were growing up, at bedtime we piled into one person's bed and read a story. Then we prayed, kissed goodnight and everyone went to their own beds. Would these two boys want me to read to them? I was going to try. I looked for something to read. My children's books were out of the question. I looked at my VBS material I will be teaching in a few weeks. Still not appropriate. Then I decided on a bible story. I pulled out a translation that was easy to understand, found the story of Gideon and went to the bedroom where the boys were. I explained that reading before bedtime was a tradition in our home. They agreed and one invited me to sit on his bed. He asked me to read the story of the woman at the well. So I changed plans and read the requested story. As I hugged the boys good night, they both said "Thank you for the story."
These children have been extremely polite and respectful. It has been my blessing to share my home and time with them. I hope you have the opportunity to witness the power of love and the difference it can make in children who had no hope before joining the choir.
For more information on the choir log onto:
http://www.icnchildren.net/world-orpans-choir-icn
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