Closing thoughts

All good things must come to an end - and the really great things end too soon. I've seen an amazingly diverse group of 23 connect with both the orphans of Hogar de Ninos and the residents of surrounding communities in ways I would not imagine. The last 30 minutes of our day today were described by one team member as the best 15 minutes of the week followed by the worst 15 minutes of the past 5 years. After all of the construction (and some destruction), eye care and VBS we took those kids back home to play a little and cry a lot. You'll never see joy like we've witnessed this week until you go on one of these trips. Kids who have what we would consider to be nothing can give you a smile like you can't get anywhere else - just because you show-up to spend some time with them. Gateway members need to prepare themselves for Peruvian-style greetings from the members of this team - even Joey will be getting some hugs. One of the things we have discussed is how loving and accepting everyone has been toward us. Handshakes are not acceptable - you're getting a hug and sometimes a kiss whether you like it or not. I have been truly blessed to be part of this team. The construction at Hannah's Home is not finished, but we sure put a dent in it. Everyone on this team would have loved to finish it off and leave knowing that it was ready - but God has a plan to bless another group with driving the last nail. All may rest assured that Gateway left our mark - there is a maroon MSU painted on one of the white exterior walls and a Gateway cross between the kitchen and cafe - photos of both are available. Even more important, the children and people of Peru left a mark on each of us.

Take the time to seek out one of the Peru trip team members and ask them what God asked them to bring back to Blue Springs - you'll get some of the most amazing responses. The mission trip is over, but the mission will never end...

Mike