Eight Ambassadors began their journey from Wisconsin a week ago.  We all were anxious to meet the children, not knowing who they were or how they might respond to our visit.  After many hours on the plane thinking about what we might say and what we might do, we landed in Manila with our hearts beating with excitement and anticipation.  We have met many friends along the way who have touched our hearts and left us with many good memories of our visit.  First to meet us were our trustworthy friends and drivers, Ramon and Felix, who have guided us through the streets and paths of Manila and surrounding areas with the utmost skills similar to the game of shoots and ladders.  Driving in Manila is a game of inches.  They are the masters at driving and giving us Philippine history lessons.  Then we met the children who greeted us with warm smiles, great hearts ...but with some questions regarding how we play a part in their lives. 

Along the way we met more friends.  There is Jeremy, a handsome boy who is shy and unfamiliar with our language...yet he overcame that challenge and was a joy to be with.  Jonalyn, with beautiful eyes and a warm smile who lights up a room with her outgoing personality and charm.  BJ, a leader, with a strong personality and spirit that makes you feel welcome and comfortable.  BJ is the life of the party and has a real eye for the photo arts.  BJ's sister, Honey Grace who is a beautiful young lady looking for a family that will nurture her creative skills and need for compassion.  John Mark, small in stature but big in heart.  He has a great smile and beautiful bright eyes that will invite you into his life.  John Rod, a boy that is serious yet has a good sense of humor and a gentle spirit.  And last but not least, there is Joshua, who's says that "this is his turn to be adopted".  Josh melted my heart with his warm smile and soft spoken personality..His eyes are wonderful and bright with a hope for a good future.  Josh told me he wants a family with a dog...a chihuahua

We met these children and they taught us many things, along our journey.  We learned, grace, dignity, respect for others, diversity, inclusion, community, partnership, honor, patience, and persistence........and many more lessons that only a child can teach a bunch of adults who believe they know it all.  Most of all they taught us humility and a perspective to be thankful for our families and what we have in the US.  The kids so long to be like us.  To have a loving family that we be theirs.  Someone to love them and for them to love.

As we end our journey, we are filled with appreciation for what we have and the desire to help these children find homes.  As Josh said so clearly.......It is my turn......it is their turn!