Swimming

The number one cause of death of children in the Philippines is drowning. 

After all, the Philippines are comprised of over 7,000 islands. Not to mention these islands sit in the most typhoon prone waters of the world. 

During my first year in Taiwan, the swim team, during their annual mission trip to the Philippines, dug the hole for a pool at K.I.M.'s Manila location. 

By hand.

During rainy season.

I remember the pictures well. 

Now, when the swim team is there, they teach swimming lessons in that pool.

Not the typical mission trip activity, but very practical.

Students in the first and fifth grades all received swimming instruction during their physical education time. High schoolers also had the opportunity to learn the necessary skills of swimming. Several morning, the toddlers were brought from the children's home for 1-on-1 pool time.

These students do not own bathing suits. I know that sounds strange, but think about it. They live in a poverty stricken area, so family finances don't allow for such luxuries. There are not any pools in this area, so the need is also nonexistent. 

Last year, they wore their clothes into the swimming pool.

This left quite an impression on the hearts of several Morrison students. One of Abbi's co-captains, applied for a grant and received the money necessary to purchase swimming suits. 

Another, spent her summer  soliciting businesses for donations. Through her efforts, she was also able to purchase swim suits and enough goggles for every student involved in the lessons. 

No one prompted them to "think outside the box";to see a need and figure out a way to meet that need. They stepped over that line of maturity where you begin to see the needs of others. Not just realize the need, but do something to meet that need.

 Learning to swim is so much easier when appropriately dressed!

Typically, the high schoolers led these lessons. It was intriguing to see the different leadership styles, as well as virtues, such as patience, being displayed. Students who were typically quiet and reserved, stepped up into leadership roles when necessary.

One of the many things that touched my heart on this trip was the Morrison team members. This was their trip. They weren't there to simply tag along. They made decisions. They served. They served willingly. They did not moan or groan. No one complained.  Ever!

I feel so privileged to have been part of such an awesome trip!