I met my sponsor child today!

I met a girl, my girl, Yesenia Elizabeth today. What an experience. She had the sweetest spirit and a beautiful face. I can't wait to post pictures when I get home, but I must warn you, pictures do not do her justice!

She came with her mom and a Compassion worker from her project.

Her mom cannot read, but Yesenia can. She is learning English. She wants to be a doctor. She is in the 8th grade and is working hard to keep her grades up.

Yesenia turns 15 in September. Turning 15 is a big deal in El Salvador. She said I was her 15th birthday present!

Honestly, I still can't believe I met her. It feels like a dream.

I always knew she was a real person, but to actually see her face to face, to talk with her, and see her laugh was an amazing blessing.

I feel at a loss for words. How do I tell you about an experience like this?

And now, as I think back, I start to doubt myself. Did I take advantage of the time with her? We don't speak the same language, but I felt a connection - did she? Was I what she expected? I know she exceeded my expectations.

I didn't get emotional while I was with her. I was so happy to see her, but I didn't cry. But thinking back over the day as I stumble through this post, I feel the tears welling up. And, I don't know what to say.

Thank you for your prayers. If you don't already sponsor a child, sponsor one today. If you do sponsor a child, write your child. We heard the testimones of 4 young adults who graduated from the Compassion program and each one of them talked about the letters their sponsor wrote them and the impact that had on their lives.

I have always thought Compassion was a worthy cause, but as a result of this trip, I have seen Compassion up close, first hand and I have been blown away.

Compassion allows you to impact a child on the other side of the world for Christ. I can't think of a greater honor.