A Gift for Santa

Blog post written by John Bettes (McKinney, TX)

Before coming on this trip, I was told that the purpose of our team was to serve and bless people of El Salvador.  What I didn’t know was how much the people would bless us. Yesterday we had the privilege of visiting two different centers.  The first was for children with disabilities, and the second for adults with disabilities.  The children had varied levels of abilities, but all had love to share.  I was able to spend time with children who could not speak verbally, but spoke with a smile and communicated through holding my hand.  One child just walked up, grabbed my hands, and put my arms around him just to feel someone hold him for a moment.  I will never forget that.

I was given the honor of being able to dress up as Santa and hand out presents. My wife Crys dressed as Rudolf.  Distributing presents was really fun, but the hugs that I received from these children will be cherished memories forever.  When we went to the adult center, they had the same welcoming hearts as the children.  They greeted us with huge hugs and welcomed us as family.  I was able to hear their stories and share my love with them. One of the residents wanted his arm painted like my tattoo. We bonded over that.  I was again able to play Santa and hand out gifts, and once again, the greatest part was their hugs and gratitude.  I am so grateful that God gave me the opportunity to meet these amazing children of God! I may.have dressed as Santa and handed out gifts, but their unconditional love was a gift that I will always treasure.