Encore!

Poise is the first word that comes to mind. I think we began having recitals at our school about nine years ago, but this is now the second year that we have had a formal recital and dinner. Eight of the kids from our shelter were involved in the performances and they practiced hard in preparation, dressed sharply, and played very well despite their nervousness. They were definitely poised.

Jeneviev, Analiza, Riza Mae, Bernardo, Jenive, Leheca, Paula, and Charryto were the performers and Teacher Francis had worked long hours over many months to help them hone their skills. It is a blessing to see the talents God has given our children and how they use them to bless others and bring glory to God. But it doesn't come easily. It takes the wonderful talent of Teacher Francis and his enthusiasm to help draw the talents out of the kids. And then it takes hours and hours of hard work by the kids to perfect their keystrokes on the piano, their touch on the clarinet and flute, and the ability to draw the bow across the strings of the violin.

We had a great crowd of special friends that came to see the kids perform last night. Since our kids come from very difficult situations and do not have their parents to see them perform, we are very appreciative of our close friends in Cebu who have become our kids "extended family." We were all very proud of the way all of our kids strove to excel, playing their pieces confidently, and quickly composing themselves if they played a wrong note. I think we learn a lot more about our kids, and they about themselves, when they make a mistake, make the needed adjustment, and go on to finish strong.

Our kids, from the beginning to the end, performed fantastically last night. And they certainly finished strong!