the last.

today marked yet another “last” of many that have been happening lately. But today’s “last” was the most genuine and most difficult yet. Today was my last Tamina Thursday.

I have been spending most of my Thursdays throughout Junior High & Senior High with a group of children over at The Tamina Community Center. I’ve seen not only the actual building grow, but the children and families as well.

I have always dreaded this day and as it unexpectedly arrived today, a sadness overwhelmed me that is rare and bittersweet. All I could think of while we spend our usual hour there was..Jesus please let the children continued to be loved..and please make each moment I have left to spend with them meaningful and fun..

As the minutes passed and the time came to say goodbye, I contained myself and gave each child a hug and a “hope to see you this summer” farewell. I approached the last child with tears in my eyes and gave them a hug with hesitance; I didn’t want to accept that the time had really come.

As I got in my car to drive to work I listened to my music loud and tried to keep my tears in. I had to be at work in five minutes, and I didn’t want to show up a mess.

So it wasn’t until just about a half hour ago that I really got upset. I uploaded the pictures from today at Tamina and simply cried.

I will miss the rejuvenating smiles of each and every child and the humble wave hello from Mrs. Shirley. I am so thankful for my years spent getting to know the people of The Tamina Community Center. My eyes and heart have been opened to a culture right outside our own little bubble of one.

My love always will be strong for my Tamina babies. My prayers always for them. In my heart, no matter where I end up, they will remain.