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.