Paula Radel is, I believe, the greatest person born in the 20th century!!
She has a way of being able to talk to ANYONE...and get people to smile and help us with her friendly wit and personality. She has a gift for sarcasism, but is one of the most honest people I have ever met. We talk about everything, even...well, you know.
She is one of the most generous people I have ever met, the other being her husband, Tom. She gives without thought of what will be given her in return, be it her time, money, gifts, whatever. She has an amazing spiritual life that is thriving and growing in her love and faith in God.
She has been so open with me, allowing me to ask anything, and sharing her thoughts with me in return. Her heart is so full of love for these kids, and for children all over the world. I am so unbelievably thankful for her!
One of the things we shared together is our feelings about leaving. I was thinking about the time when we will leave this place, and at that moment, Paula began talking about it. About how we both cannot wait to get back to our reality. Our beds, coffee, running water, hot showers, familiar foods, coffee, our family, a couch, a grocery store, coffee, and the list goes on. We always talk about the first thing we will do when we get home: Paula...drink real coffee, me...a hot shower.
But on the other hand, just as strong and compelling, is our shared desire to stay here. How can we leave? We have seen first hand the horrible conditions these children and sisters face each day. We have worked one on one with some of these "at risk" children and have seen a spark of personality and intelligence in them. But who will have the time to sit with them when we leave? The very act of survival takes all day. What will happen to that spark we saw?
It is a heartbreaking tug of war, one I am glad is understood by my amazing traveling companion. We must go home. But our journey will not end there. A connection has been made, our hearts will forever be beating for the children of this home, and our future actions will be motivated by that love.
See, and this is why I love Paula so much...because after this conversation, she comes up with the idea for a new television show...Catholic Survivor...and we begin to plan what the show will entail. Any television producers reading this blog?? It could be a real hit!!!!
Well, time to begin my day. May God bless you!! Thank you for your prayers!! Love, Sarah
