I first became aware of Compassion International, a Christian child-sponsorship ministry, in December, 2002. For years, I had wanted to sponsor a child, but had been unable to afford the cost. Finally, I could afford the financial obligation, but which organization should I use? How could I know which one would actually use my money for my sponsored child or anything about the level of integrity behind the organization? Without answers, I did nothing, until I came upon a table display of individual child packets, at my church. Instantly, I knew this was my answer, and Someone inside of me was saying, "This is it." I sponsored two girls, then, and added a third in February, 2005. Initially, I presumed that the "This is it" referred only to sponsorship. Within a few hours, I knew there was more for me to do. I became an official volunteer and now look for opportunities to present the ministry of Compassion to individuals, groups and churches, whenever possible, always in the hope of finding sponsors for more children.
She does love to pose herself! So active, so vivacious. She also appears so much older, in this photo, than I know she is.
Rina is 13 years old and lives in Indonesia. Initially, I am only her correspondent sponsor; my mother has sponsored her for, I think, 5 years (maybe 4), but can no longer write. At some point, we will take full responsibility of this sponsorship, but Mom is not ready to let go, yet. That also provides some transition time, I hope, for Rina, as I will try to keep her and Mom updated on each other's progress.
That's my girl, Denisse! No, she was not at all sure about swimming, but she sure did love the water, as long as Lorena (our translator) helped to keep her afloat.
Tausi is now 12 years old, pushing 13 (on my birthday in September!). For the six-plus years that I have sponsored her, she has struck me as a sweet young lady, mature for her age. She sends me a snapshot once or twice a year and is the only one of my girls who sends any. I want so much to meet her!
In this photo, Tausi is holding the two 1-gallon Zipl*ock bags in which I sent some gifts, with a friend in Compassion. The look on her face seems more shy than in any other photo I have of her. In her "thank-you" letter, she said, "I know you did this because you love my life." She is right about that.
This photo was probably taken in February or early March, possibly outside the student center in which Tausi is registered. She always comments on the beautiful flower garden they have there. She will be 11 years old on the birthday that she and I share.
