Our second last day of distribution lead us to two locations, where we were traditionally greeted and welcomed. The receiving of flowers and/or betel leaves gives one a sense of not only be welcomed but that we are honoured guests and a hand of friendship is being extended to us. The crowd of children and parents who align the parade route as we proceed into the distribution location are clearly filled with wonder and expectation. If for no other reason, the trip to Sri Lanka , just to see the wonderful smiling and gentle children, is worth all the time and effort.
Although both of our locations did not have the greatest of backgrounds for our photos, they were both well organized and things moved fairly smoothly. Our second location at CEF CHILDREN EDUCATION CENTRE, was quite a surprise. It is facility for training preschool (they refer to it as kindergarten) teachers. It is quite unusual as it is a centre run by a Buddhist Monk, who receives most of his support from donors in Japan. He is also unique in that he is a member of the local Rotary Club and has just completed a term as District Governor. It was here that we were treated to a delicious lunch including rice, dahl, chicken, vegetables and fruit. The best of all was distributing 225 bedkits to smiling, appreciative and needy children.
Sri Lanka 2018
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