Reflection from Bethany

This morning when I woke up, I knew that it was going to be one of the hardest days I've had in a long time. I did not want to think about saying goodbye to my kids. I knew this feeling would consume me, so I just prayed that I would not only feel sadness today. Needless to say, he answered my prayers better than I could have imagined.
 I walked into my classroom and was hugged and greeted by 30 rambunctious 5 and 6 year olds who know little to no English. Still, it was the best way to start the school day. I then received a note from a girl in my class that said, "miss Bethany, we love you because you good teacher. Love, Jacqueline". This was the beginning of many notes from my students and other admirers. Today the students took tests, so I did not get to interact with as many of them as I wanted, but I was still blessed to be with them. For lunch, our teachers and principal cooked a special celebration meal of tamales, potato salad, and chips and salsa. It was so yummy! The food here is killing me though, I think I've gained weight when I've wanted to lose it! The rest of the day I was able to play with my wonderful students and just be with them. There is one boy named Ethan who has captured my heart. Most of our conversations consist of him saying,"miss Bethany!" and then rattling off in Spanish and me looking very confused. But today, he came up to me with a very determined look on his face. He then said,"miss Bethany, you are very pretty and nice" in a very rehearsed manner. It blessed me so much that he took the time to learn to say something in english to me.
 At the end of the day, I was overwhelmed with hugs, kisses, letters, happiness, and sadness. My cooperating teacher told me that my hard work will take me anywhere I need to go and she can't imagine her classroom without me. I had a really rough start with her, and it ended beautifully.
    This trip has completely changed me. I've learned to look for the positive things in life. I've learned to love with my whole heart. I've learned that God is always near and preparing my heart for greater things. I'm so thankful for this trip. It has made me into someone I'm proud to be. It has created new relationships with friends. It has given me a new perspective on life and teaching. Mom, dad, and Ryan- Im apologizing in advance for the many Belize stories I'll be talking about constantly. :) thank you everyone for the prayers you've showered over us. I would not trade my experience for anything in the world. See you all in a week!

With love,
Bethany