Watch Them Grow

Himu leading the Club

Most of our English students are young adults.  When we first arrived we barred kids from our classes because English was already being taught by islanders in schools and we weren’t looking to compete with them. No one was teaching adults and many wanted to learn. But realistically older adults have a harder time learning language and are already established with jobs and families so they have less time or inclination to learn. So it’s not a big surprise that a majority of our classes over the years have been filled with people from 18-30 years old.

The one place where we haven’t put any restrictions was on our English Club. If someone could speak English well enough, they could attend (with kids, their parents need to know they are coming and approve). Over the years we’ve had a handful of kids come, most for a week or two and then we don’t see them again. It is intimidating to be surrounded by adults and trying to speak a foreign language, not to mention the club is at night.

"Himu" has been an exception. I think he must have been 12 when we met him. We saw him go through levels 1,2, and 3 of the English curriculum. He was quiet and a little shy, but obviously smart. He came weekly to our club, attentive and dedicated.

At some point we met Himu’s dad. He sells phone credit on the side of the road near a shop we frequent. They have the same smile. Meanwhile Himu faithfully attended our club, week after week, month after month.

Himu giving his speech

A few years passed and Himu had a growth spurt. His voice deepened. His father was worried he was getting drawn in with the “bad kind of friends” and asked Tom to talk to Himu on his behalf.  Tom sat down with Himu and encouraged him to keep up with his studies and stay out of trouble.  His dad was pleased.

A few years later, Himu took the teacher training course with Tom and started teaching classes with one of the local programs.  He’s only sixteen, but he’s taking the job seriously.  About a month ago that kid that we still think of sometimes as being 12 years old volunteered to lead the English club—and did a great job.

Some people only look to us for English. That is what they want from us and nothing more. But some are looking for mentors.  They look to us for advice and guidance. They watch our lives. Sometimes we don’t really realize that we’re mentoring someone until we see them modeling some of their decisions and behaviors on us.

A few weeks ago Himu stood in front of a crowd and gave a speech in English. He thanked us and talked about learning at our club to be a leader and about giving back to his country.  He’s a young man now. Where did that little kid go? After his speech, Himu proceeded to hand out certificates to his class of English students. We were proud of him.

Himu likes to joke around and call Tom “My grandfather.” Tom doesn’t feel that old, but he understands that there is a compliment behind the joke.  Ultimately, we hope that Himu. will learn more from us than just speaking English or being a good teacher.  But for now we are thankful for the opportunity to play a part in his life and to watch him grow.

First mangoes of the season!

PRAYERS ANSWERED
We’ve had good news today. Our island sisters got together to study and ended up shepherding a new sister into the family!  May it lead to even more growth!  Megan’s back has continued to improve after her setback last week, and she was feeling well enough to do another point to point swim.  Our oldest son is feeling better and went back to school.  Tom was able to meet with a few of his study friends.  We had a visit from our friend and boss this week, which was a definite blessing.  Ma Imani has started treatment in Madagascar and her family says she has already made a marked improvement (though we’re still confused about what exactly wrong). Our country came and visited this past week— it was a joy to have her!

PRAYERS REQUESTED
Pray for our new sister, that she would be guided and encouraged in her walk and she would be one of many to join our family.  A Clove Island brother is going to the small island tomorrow to encourage brothers and sisters there. Pray that he could spurn them on to greater growth. Our older son is feeling better, but now the younger one is coughing and sniffling.  Pray for healing.  We are still searching for workers to join our team in 2020.  All our leads seem to have dried up for the moment.  Pray that God would send the right people!