My short time at New Hope for Orphans has already made me feel at home in so many different ways. I have found a home in each bright smile of all 20 children. I have found a home in the mom and the dad who provide love and care for all the children. I have found a home in my small room with 2 fans and 3 other girls who have created their own version of home on the floor with me. I have even found a home in the squatty potties/ bucket showers. But most of all I feel as though I have become a part of a beautiful community called New Hope for Orphans in Siem Reap, Cambodia.
These children are so happy with what they have, and that isn’t much. They play outside all hours of the day in the beating heat with one ball and a volleyball net. I have learned so much from the way these children live. I have learned to live simply and not just be content, but overjoyed. I have learned to love passionately and with my whole heart. And I have learned to be grateful for all the little things. God has been most prominent in the details. I see Him in my team leader, Jess, when she sings “Boom Chicka Boom” (an interactive song she learned in India). I see God when I walk past a bush and Koa (a 7 year old) pops out and screams “Picota”. I see Him in Sophie’s (our ministry host) smile. God is so present here and shines so bright through these children and my team. We worship, laugh, play, dance, and pray regardless of a language barrier.
I am just so in love with this place and and everything that is happening here.
– Dakota!!
