Bye Bye Marty

I was going to write on the same subject, but then I just decided to copy Rusty's journal entry about the situation. After all, he spent more time with the students--especially in this class. Keep the situation in your prayers. Times have changed so much for Americans that we can't imagine dropping out of school in order to help provide for the family, but it hasn't been that long ago that kids did that for their families in the States also. Reality is that it's still a way of life for millions of people.

Saying goodbye is the hardest thing for me to do. I hate to do it. When the team left this summer it was hard. When Susan's mom left it was hard. Each time a team has left in the past or when my brother went back to the US it was hard. I hate goodbye's!

One thing worse than that is not getting to say goodbye. Two students have been missing my classes and I just found out they are now working jobs to help their families. They are not graduating, and the truth of the matter is they are barely teens. One thing worse is if they did graduate they would not have the opportunities others have because they have no national ID card because they are illegal aliens.

Both of these girls had the best of manners and were the most polite and sweet of all the children. One was 13 and in the third grade the other was about the same age, but in the sixth. Oh yes! That's nothing! I have 2 eight year olds in the 4 year old class, 3 eleven year olds in the 1st grade class, and there are others in the same situation. They are there to learn Thai. They are from Burma and speak Shan/ Thai Yai languages. You can learn all about their history and plight on Youtube. Many many stories document their plight. Their lives as difficult as they may be here are much better than what they would be there. I could go on and on.

Even after all of this my nerves are raw. My heart aches. My stomach is in knots. I just wanted a little more time. I just wanted to say goodbye. I just.... wanted her to repent of her sins and trust Jesus. At least to have more information to make the right choice.

We are not promised tomorrow with any of our students. Susan, the volunteers this summer that came to work in the schools, and Hope last year, spent precious time with these girls. The love and compassion we all have showed her was that of Christ. I have personally shared in that class about Christ. Some of you have given money to buy Christian books that both of those girls have read about Jesus and who He is and why He came. Seeds sown and watered. Let's keep praying for the increase. We sow in tears, but we shall reap in joy! Let's keep praying to the Lord of the harvest. He loves souls much more than I and He cares for them all.

I miss you both. Especially you dear sweet "Marty" (the name I gave her). I will miss our little chats in and out of the classroom. I will miss your hugs and sweet smile. I will miss you calling the class to order so I can teach. I will miss you bringing your notebook to me to check. You are in my heart and prayers and are why I have tears tonight. May you find Jesus whom I spoke of and shared with you. May you remember that He is the only hope and peace we all have on this earth, and the only Way to be with Him forever in heaven.

Love and prayers always,

Krew Saniem (my Thai name)