I am smitten by the English as a Second Language ministry (ESL) at WEPC.  "Smitten" is the best word to describe the attachment I feel to this ministry after only one semester. The maturity of the leaders, their sincere love for Jesus, their desire to see Him held up and honored in this outreach, humbles and inspires me. The devotion and creativity of the volunteers motivates me to offer what I have in generous portions. I have great affection for my students who are respectful, motivated, fun, and willing to be led. My admiration for them grows every week as I watch them willingly participate in the activities we have planned for them. There is a certain vulnerability that comes with submitting to a course of learning that announces every week "I am needy."  The humility required to become child-like while learning a new language in a new culture is not lost on me. I find it beautiful and moving.

I have participated in many church programs and I usually remain faithful for the duration of my commitment even when it is only duty that compels me. Of course, there is nothing wrong with a sense of duty that holds us to our obligations, but I am so thankful that there are times when duty turns to choice and a "I have to" is replaced by "I get to." That is the way I feel about teaching English in this ministry on Thursday mornings. There are many weeks where I feel like I am the one growing and learning the most. I am very thankful for this opportunity.