FL WMM - Final Thoughts

Exciting things happened to me in Guatemala, but one of the most heart warming things was when we prepared to leave the Center, each day. ALL the children would come out and yell out "Adios" to us as we left and wave. Such a beautiful sight. God is so good. The trip in all was life changing. - Lucky Coker

At the retirement celebration today each Guatemalan worker spoke. They expressed their love for Luz, the worker who is retiring. Each one thanked Ron and Cynthia for bringing teams to the Center. They thanked them for sharing the Gospel and leading in Bible devotions. It was a "Praise the Lord" to hear their thanks. - Elizabeth Englert

The trip was very good and inspiring. The Center is a very good work--much compassion. The workers are kind and very capable. I really respect how hard they work. May God continue to bless this work and help many children. I am so glad God has called Ron and Cynthia out for this work...a real privilege to work with you. God Bless! - Shirley Faglie

Time at the Children's Malnutrition Center was such a blessing. My thoughts: compassion, new sisters in Christ, acceptance, hope, and love. God is so good. His grace reaches to remote places. - Kathleen Martin

This experience opened my eyes to the great needs of the people. The children love to come up and hug you and want to sit on your lap, look up at you and smile. I worked with school age children. Eager to learn. - Diane

I came on this trip in obedience to that 'still small voice', not knowing how God would use me. God is so good and truly answers in BIG ways!! - Anonymous

This week at the Malnutrition Center has been an answer to prayer for me and my restless heart. The opportunity to use my skills and training as a mom, granny, nurse and teacher was so wonderful! I love the children and the workers at the Center deeply. May God continue to bless Orphan's Heart and its Gospel message of a hands-on life...in Jesus precious name. - Janet Thompson

Besides enjoying the mountains and all of God's creation, it has also been a mountaintop experience spiritually. I will certainly enjoy the conveniences of my kitchen, but will remember how hard these women work in the kitchen to provide meals for these children. What we were told at the beginning-that we would never be the same--is certainly true. - Clysta DeArmas

Guatemala will never again be just another place on the map for me. Precious children with dark eyes and dark hair and beautiful smiles have forever left their footprints on the tablet of my heart. God blessed me in a special way as He allowed me to connect with them during one short week of their lives at the Malnutrition Center in San Juan. I pray that I left the footprints of Jesus on the tablets of their little hearts. - Sue Johns

This has been an eye-opening week. I have been to other third world counties but none like this. These children truly are a miracle from God! And they love you no matter what, and I will miss them greatly! -  Heidi Severson

The decision to go on a mission trip was an easy one. My friends and family fully supported me, knowing it was going to change my life. To say the Malnutrition Center has changed my life is an understatement. Neither the words nor the pictures can verbalize the emotions felt, especially when pulling away for the last time. The children, the workers, the Gunter's... they all have a special place in my heart. I am looking forward to seeing everyone again very soon. - Carrie Heine

I wrestled pretty hard with God about coming on this trip. I am ashamed now that I thought, I "didn't have time" to minister to children who are separated from their parents and families so that they can be fed. I can't imagine not being able to feed my children. I am forever changed and humbled by the work of the Center and by the selfless love the parents have for their children by bringing them to the Center. - Terri Womack

Wow!  God is great. I have had the most amazing experience ever. I have so many memories that I will cherish for the rest of my life. I truly believe that my heart longs to come back to Guatemala. The smiles, laughs, hugs, kisses from the children really did my soul well.  If you ever get the chance to be a part of a mission trip, take it; you will be blessed in so many ways. "Jesus Vive!" Jesus lives! - Miqueila Butts

The Center in Guatemala is a world like no other. Little children so helpless, so hungry, such precious gifts from God! It is impossible to come and not go home refreshed in the true spirit of His Holiness.   -Jane Martin

It is an experience I shall never forget. My heart is broken for the children and parents at the Center. God bless them as I continue to pray for the worker's salvation. - Nancy Mendenhall

As we were on our way to the Center I thought, "I can't believe I'm in this beautiful country, serving our wonderful Savior." God is amazing and He quips those He calls. I am thankful He gave me the opportunity to love these Guatemalan children. - Edie Jones

Praise God He called a 75-year-old woman who has always wanted to go on a mission trip, but never could. I will never be the same. - Patty Thomas

It's hard to believe today was our last day with these children. I came to serve, hoping to bless others, but it was I who was blessed. The children have captured my heart; the caregivers gained my respect. They will all forever be on my mind and in my prayers. - Adria Henslick

I can't wait to come back. Billy's face, Maria's smile, Wendy's laugh. They call me back to Guatemala. - Cathy Slusser

Psalm 9:1-2: "I will praise you, O Lord, with all my heart. I will tell of all your wonders. I will be glad and rejoice in you; I will sing praises to your name, O Most High."

Tonight, I am sad that I have to leave, but I will praise Him. Tonight I am thankful I saw Dalila again. I will praise Him. Tonight I will pray for Lydia, my new favorite. I will praise Him. Tonight I will thank Him for all the blessings He's given me. Tomorrow, I will use my blessings to bless others.  Next year, I will go back. I will praise Him. No matter how many times you go on a mission trip, you will always be changed. - Di Bennett