The thing is, I am so much grateful to figure it out earlier than the others because it paved the way for easily building rapport between me and the children—behaving like them on the camp, not drawing any lines as long as I am helping them or simply saying, getting dirty in all ways they do.
Hello Hivers! I struggled to keep my presence in Hive for the last three days because I had a very high fever and colds that started last Sunday after my duty in the camp. It was bad weather last week and I was caught up by the rain—in return, it left me three days bed rotting, battling fever, colds, cough, and headache. Those days were a nightmare not because I felt ill but because I couldn’t get to attend the CFS sessions which I promised to be consistent with until the end.
Today, I feel better but still couldn’t attend the session because recovery needs more time, and I don’t want to force my body and have a fever again. My last session was filled with many kids, most of whom were not familiar to me because they belonged to another village.
As our days go by on the camp, the intensity of the children’s energy grows higher as well. It is actually fun to be immersed in the situation, watching kids move across all corners while making the loudest noises. Anytime you would see them in a fight, mostly young boys, and sometimes you will hear cries at the back because of many reasons but mostly due to toys.
We still had our Zumba and physical stretching, which are very vital at the very start of our program. The kids, despite their large number, had been following our instructions lightheartedly which is a good manifestation of how much patience and obedience they have gained in our sessions.
The newest DSWD facilitators also assisted us that day, and they have been trying to help in ways they can because they are still adjusting on the camp, especially in the Child-Friendly Space and our program. If on their first day they just observed us, the next day they tried their best to participate in the program, giving us heads-ups and important suggestions. They are kinder than the previous ones actually; they are more approachable and open to suggestions.
Unlike the previous ones, there are many of them in the tent who helped us, meaning the work is more efficient. The rest of our program flowed to various activities designed to promote hygiene and teamwork among children.
STORYTELLING SESSION
DRAWING/COLORING SESSION
We also initiated an activity of airplane design-making for our reflection session where kids were tasked to create an airplane from paper and design it according to their liking, which required them to scribble figures on the plane and later on explain how they came up with the design and how it reflected their feelings or emotions that day.
The other kids who are sports-inclined requested for board games and ball games, but the latter could not be done since we were in a tent and it was impossible to do so in the new environment.
So they played board games while the younger ones played with blocks and little toys.
This is the Daanbantayan team but MERCY Malaysia was no longer with them since they already left northern Cebu. The quest in San Remigio and Daanbantayan initiated by MERCY Malaysia still continues since we promised them we will complete the 14-day Child Friendly Space Initiative.
Even if the days left me exhausted, unwell, and dirty, this experience has reminded me that true service doesn’t always look neat or perfect—it comes with sweat, dirt, and yes, sickness. I found purpose in the laughter of children, and I see joy upon watching them laugh and learn. Healing might take a few more days for me as I try to recover now but my heart is already full, knowing that I’ve done something meaningful before I left last session, beyond the stains, the rain, and the fatigue.
A testament of power and dedication. You found your purpose to help those kids. This kind of work changes lives and hope you feel better. You need to take care of yourself and those kids waiting for you. Take care.☺️
Yes @katiekate86 taking care of ourselves first is a weapon in this kind of work. I also miss the kids already❤️ I hope they are doing fine in these days without me. Thank you for passing by friend!
Lol it's truly difficult to work with lots of kids especially if we're not used to them. But hey it looks like you enjoyed your time with them. That's great! Get well soon!
I enjoyed it @artgirl and I came to agreement with the dirt to help me build relationship with the children🤣 Thank you for passing by and I appreciate your prayer❤️
It's great to help those in need especially those kids who needs you.
You're doing great and pls. don't forget to take care of yourself.
Always remember health is wealth.
More power✨
Thank you for reminding me @hideey.writes. I appreciate it. The children on the camp are very happy to see us everyday and I hope our sessions would stay with them forever.
Wow, reading this really made me appreciate the depth of what you’re doing. Your dedication and patience shine through every word and it’s a beautiful reminder that service isn’t always neat or easy, but the joy and learning of the children make it all worthwhile.
You have the right words there @gretelarmfeg. It is not always easy and neat but knowing how much impact you have already brough on the lives of the children make it perfect.
Seeing the children happy and engaged is the greatest reward. Thanks @whosee 😊
you have a big heart for children, get well soon @whosee. what you are doing with the children now, i think they will never forget because it seems like they are having fun with the activities.
Thank you for the words @crstypatata ❤️ This fever is worthy because of them. The only way I could accept that gives me fever.
Heartwarming 😍 I hope you recover quickly♥️