Arriving in Colombo after another long journey, I was warmly welcomed by the GiveLight home staff. This home, with its clinic, sports hall, library, and study spaces, was a sanctuary of learning and care.
My days here were filled with moments of connection. I spent time getting to know the children, listening to their dreams, and encouraging them to pursue education. Their eyes lit up as they shared their aspirations—doctors, teachers, engineers—each child holding onto a dream that GiveLight was helping to nurture.
One of the most heartwarming activities was watching the younger children engage with the Anbia series, while the older ones presented impromptu summaries of the stories. Their confidence and eloquence were remarkable. The drawings of Prophet Ibrahim’s story, created by the younger kids, were so beautiful that choosing the best ones was nearly impossible. Each piece reflected not just talent, but deep understanding and love for their heritage.
Friday was particularly special. We recorded a heartfelt Ramadan Iftar message, guided by five children who poured their souls into the project. Later, we ventured to the beach, where the children built sandcastles, raced along the shore, and played in the waves until the sun dipped below the horizon. Their laughter echoed against the ocean breeze—a sound so pure and full of life.
Saturday’s fun-filled sports day brought yet another wave of joy. The children competed in sack races, tug-of-war, and even a piñata game, their excitement contagious. As winners were announced and prizes awarded, I saw not just celebration but an unbreakable spirit of camaraderie and love. The evening concluded with a grand farewell performance—Quran recitations, national songs, and even an intense karate competition. Their discipline and dedication were inspiring.
As my time came to an end, the children once again overwhelmed me with their generosity. They gifted me their most treasured possessions—artwork, crafts, and notes filled with heartfelt words. One boy carefully handed me a swing made of popsicle sticks with a smiley little figurine, another a beautifully decorated vase crafted from a soda bottle and flowers made from coconut shells. Another boy offered me a cherished drawing given to him by his mother, a gift so precious that I had to gently decline, overwhelmed by his generosity.
Each gift carried a story, a piece of their hearts.
Leaving was the hardest part. These children, despite their hardships, had given me more than I could ever give them—love, gratitude, and a renewed faith in the beauty of the human spirit. As I boarded my flight home, I carried not just souvenirs, but memories and lessons that will stay with me forever.
GiveLight is more than an orphanage; it is a home, a family, a beacon of hope. And in those few days, I was blessed to be a part of it.
Let’s continue to support and uplift these beautiful souls.