A very special Ring

Maria is a sweet little girl that qualifies to attend the Manna Feeding program.  She arrived a bit late today so we didn't get to hug like we usually do.  After the devotion and food being served I went over and hugged her.  She reached in her purse.   Grabbed my hand. And put this ring on my finger.  I knelt down to her level and gave her the biggest hug I could, told her I loved her, and let her get back to eating.  She didn't make a big fuss so I didn't want to either. My heart was so touched by her kindness and it was hard to keep the lump in my throat from becoming a sob.

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Immediately what came to mind is where did she get it?  And should I keep it?  It isn't an expensive ring from what I can tell - but to me it is worth a million dollars.  I asked Papa Pedro if it would be okay if I accepted the gift and he said yes.  I thanked Maria again after she ate and told her how special it was to me.

I do not know anything about her family or her life.  I do know her life is totally different than those children that are in my life in the U.S.  

The meal she gets at Manna could very well be her only meal for the day? Most of the time she wears the same clothes all week.  Maria is very bashful but smiles a lot. My lack of conversational Spanish in moments like this is beyond frustrating.  I told her how special the ring was to me and that I loved her.  

 And have continued to think about her all day long.   Does she have a mom and dad at home?  What sort of living conditions is she living in?  Is she treated properly in her home?  Is she going to school?  And the list goes on.  I love and pray for all the children here at Eagle's Nest.  May God watch over and protect them.

Blessings to you,

Denise

But Jesus said, "Let the children come to me.  Don't stop them.  For the Kingdom of Heaven belongs

to such as these."  Matthew:19:14