Naomi's milestone and ours

As any parent can tell you, there are certain milestones in the life of your child that are more difficult than others.   First words, and first steps are joyous occasions, but happen at unexpected times with little to no warning.  Other times are well planned, like a wedding.  One of the most difficult days for a lot of parents is the first day of school.  For many children, this will be the first time they are not under Mom or Dad's wing.  Their first venture into independence.  The excitement and uncertainty can be difficult. This day is often described by many parents as the most difficult day in parenting.
As many of you know, we homeschool.  Most of our 14 children have never attended either a public or private school.  However, a few minutes ago, Naomi started her first day of school here in Haiti.

Naomi ready for her first day of school

As most parents will say, this is a stressful day for any child, which generates stress for the parents.  Here in Haiti--and specifically for us--there are additional stressors involved.  Naomi is currently sitting in a classroom in a school that is being taught in French.  Naomi does not speak French, or very much Creole (the language most people here speak).  And none of her teachers speak English.  She is also quite likely the one white student in the school.
As I brought her to school this morning, the school graciously allowed me to enter beyond the point that they allow parents.  I escorted Naomi to the playground where all of the other students were playing until classes began.  It was like a seen from a movie as 150 or 160 kids of all grades stopped what they were doing to see the little white girl.  Naomi's excitement suddenly turned to trepidation as she realized that I would not be staying with her all day.  She grabbed my hand and held on tight.  I told her that everything would be fine and I would be back to get her after school.  I showed her where her classroom was and that I wanted to hear all about her new friends, her teacher, and her day.  It was difficult to leave, but I made it with no tears (at least on the outside).  Please pray for Naomi (and us a parents).

God Bless,

Ron