November 19, 2002

Sending Christmas wishes from Zababdeh!

School continued today, as did a project of coloring and writing Christmas cards to anonymous school sponsors. Today the religion teachers had some advanced warning, so we were able to adjust accordingly. Not nearly as exhausting being a sub as it was yesterday. Marthame worked with Deacon Homam and Sisters Elba and Nadia until all of the cards were used up.

One amazing moment came with the first graders, whose Islam teacher wasn't feeling well and went home. But before leaving, she asked if her students could stay with the Christian students and color in the cards as well. So there the students sat, adorable first graders, side by side, Muslim and Christian, sharing their coloring pencils as they wrote “Thank You” and “Merry Christmas” notes to sponsors of the school.

Now Marthame has an inkling of Elizabeth's joy at teaching the lil'uns.