The Final Goodbye

So today was my last day. I must say, it has quiet possibly been one of the most emotional days of my life. I knew that I would be sad but I never knew that it would hit me like this. Let me start by saying; for those of you who think you can love a child that is not your like it is your own, I say you have not spent time with African children. I realize that I sound like Oprah here, but I truly feel like these are my kids, and I know that some of them feel the same about me.

This morning I noticed that one of my "bad kids" was sitting quietly in the back. When I went to do his video he started crying. Normally he cries because he got beat by another teacher so I assumed that is what it was. When I asked him what was wrong he told me that he is very sad that I am leaving. This is a kid that I didn't even think liked me because I had had it out with him on more than one occasion and he was upset at me. I was so over whelmed that I started crying as well. I gave him a hug to which I think he was surprised. (African's don't hug very often)

I passed out all the toys and extra stuff I brought to the kids this morning. Even though 99% of them don't have hair (yes even the girls) I gave them all hair ties and clips and they were so happy. They were wearing them as wrist bands. So cute.

After lunch they did a performance to for me. There were some speeches and some singing. At the end they asked me to come say a few words. I was dreading this moment because I knew I would break down. Before I even reached the front I burst into "the ugly cry" I couldn't even compose myself. I was so embarrassed. I did manage to get a few words out and noticed that some of my kids were crying as well.

After we cleaned up I went to go back to my classroom where all the kids were and they were sobbing. I'm not talking a little crying but the whole class was balling their eyes out. I had to have 3 other teachers come in just to console them. I of course joined them in the crying and then passed out toilet paper. They all laughed because I had brought 2 rolls with me. (What can I say, I knew it would be bad) After we got them calmed down I convinced them to come outside to sing and dance. I video taped them having fun. I must say that they were not their normal selves though.

In the end we looked at all the photos I had taken during my trip and then they came around. I also took a photo with each kid, but my camera started acting up, so I am not sure how good they will be.

Tomorrow I am going back just for a few minutes to give each one of them a personal letter from me. I know there will be a lot of tears so I am already sad. If only I could express to them what they have done for me. I love these children!

See you in a couple of days!

P.S. Yes I'm crying while I write this:)