A First Visit to Sumatra
In March, I travelled with Heart for Kids to Sumatra, Indonesia, to help run a four-day program at a children’s home. The program focused on the “3 Ls” showing God’s love while teaching life skills and leadership through games, cooking, presentation skills, creative projects, and daily devotions.
This was my first time visiting a children’s home, and I didn’t know what to expect. Looking back, I’d describe the experience as both encouraging and deeply humbling.
What the Children Taught Me
What stayed with me most was the children themselves. I was struck by how kind, respectful, and engaged they were. In simple but powerful ways, they taught me love, like holding a friend’s hand before public speaking to help calm their nerves.
Although many had experienced separation from their biological families, they consistently showed gratitude and joy. I remember seeing a home that, from my perspective, looked worn, with multiple kids sharing a few bunk beds. Yet the children described it as beautiful, and spoke about feeling blessed. That contrast challenged me, it reminded me that gratitude isn’t always shaped by circumstances, but by perspective.
Prayers That Revealed a Deeper Need
One activity invited the children to write down prayer requests and share what was on their hearts. I’ll never forget one child who filled multiple pages. Through this activity, common themes emerged: wanting to make their parents proud, struggles with loneliness, gratitude for visiting teams, and dreams for the future.
That same activity also revealed practical needs. One child was identified as needing additional support with literacy, and another was able to access help for an eyesight issue affecting daily life. Seeing how small moments of attention could lead to meaningful support reminded me of the importance of simply being present and observant.
A Final Memory
One final memory that remains with me is watching the children sing together. As I looked at them, I found myself hoping that each child would know they are deeply loved, valued, and worthy, not because of what they achieve, but because of who they are. I also hoped they would continue to receive the support they need to thrive in their health, education, and future.
Michelle's Call - Help Write a Next Child's Story
Heart for Kids exists to help vulnerable children by providing love, education, sanitation, healthcare, and safe environments. It’s about breaking the cycle of poverty and enabling children to thrive.
Your support gives children like these a home filled with love, hope, and the chance to thrive, in Sumatra and beyond.
