Meeting Joshua

A few days ago, I was able to experience a moment that many others only dream of. Meeting my sponsored student Joshua in Orem was truly a privilege.

I was able to step into his world face to face. He was a little shy at first but somehow made sure that he was very close to me the entire time I was there.

We first worshiped together and he just sat close and was quick to

smile back at me when I smiled at him. Later in the day after some other activities, I was able to personally give him the gifts I had brought for him. His face lit up when he opened his backpack and found his own soccer ball inside.

My entire time I was in Orem I looked around at all the children and was humbled to think their lives are so important and they have potential just like everyone else. However, they have real everyday struggles that I never have to face in my life.

I carried with me the entire time such mixed feelings of joy and humility. I left with a

full heart and renewed sense of purpose for why we do what we do.

~Pat Slodkowski