Dear Junior High Peeps (and everyone else I love),

No lions, no elephants, no people in tribal clothes. No Lion King tree of life, no monkeys all over the street, and no crazy face paint. Driving into Swaziland for the first time will blow your mind.

It is full of rolling hills and beautiful country side.

And as we crossed the border from South Africa my mind started trying so hard to paint a lasting picture of this tiny wonder of the world. It's a small country full of loving people and smiling children. Just like the saying goes never judge a book by its cover. Don't judge a child by her smile. On the outside this small girl looks happy and content but asking a few general questions you come to find out she does not have a normal child hood. She is twelve years old has already lost her father at age six, had a step father

walk out on her family after beating the children, and is now taking care of her mother dying of aids, as well as her four younger sisters. Oh my lord, help this poor girl, poor baby, may be some things that come to your mind, but the sad fact is that this is as common in Swazi as having a pet in the United States. This precious child of God however does not complain or feel sorry for herself, but instead rejoices that her God has given her strength! My prayer each day has been "God please make me as strong as this young girl."

After hearing so many heart wrenching stories from these small children the only words I feel are appropriate to describe them are...

When peace like a river of attendeth my way,

when sorrows like sea billows roll,

whatever my lot You have taught me to say...

it is well, with my soul...

It is well, it is well

Through the storm I am held,

It is well, it is well

God has won Christ prevailed,

It is well It is well with my soul.

Despite all the hurt the joy of Christ over comes it all. Blessed is an understatement and I know each one of my team members will join in singing with me as we proclaim the raining of God's love in this Country of courage.

Love Bailey

P.S. Someone please tell Seth to print this off and read it to the middle school youth groupJ Thanks love ya'll and miss everyone tones! And I can email so send me an email if you have time!!! xoxoxo