Final Delivery
Friday was a huge day for us. First, signing papers at the justice Department, followed by the news that Lucy would come out of the orphanage and with us to the hotel. That prompted quick trips to the super market for last minute supplies (can you say; I forgot to pack the bottles?!) and a visit to the gian "co op" for supplies we would bring to the orphanage. Our friends in Holladay had generously donated several hundred dollars (hello again Holladay 27th ward!) which we determined would go farther in Vietnam than in the States in helping the orphans at Lucy's orphanage. So, on our way to the orphanage for the last time, Lien Vo took us to the giant super market (about the size of a small Albertson's store) to pick up diapers and formula totalling Vietnamese 8 million dong (about $500). The supermarket staff walked around after us with wide eyes as Lien made the order...

Then they rang up the supplies. This was quite a task, as it totalled boxes and boxes worth of diapers and baby formula. Our cahsier was a little uncomfortable handling all the cash, but in the end the transaction was done. Our friend, Lien, ensured us the grocery store would deliver the goods. We trusted them to the job and scurried off to catch a cab and sign the papers that would bring Lucy home with us.


As we prepared to leave with Lucy, all the supplies arrived, via motorbike! As they loaded them into the lobby of the orphanage Lien explained that they were the donation of our church group for the children of GoVap. The orphanage director, who had already accepted new clothing and supplies from us upon our first arrival, was surprised. Here, we were finished with the orphanage. Leaving for the last time. Yet, now was the time the greatest gifts arrived. It brought me great joy. I had prayed and hoped that throughout our days at the orphanage we would be ambassadors of Christ in our deeds and work with the children and nannies. I wanted them to feel our love for each of them. The appreciation we felt for all they've done for Lucy, and the love we have for the darling babies in Lucy's room. I felt so happy that these donations would not in any way benefit Lucy directly; that they could truly be a selfless gift. Of course, the funds used to purchase the gift were not our own. This made the experience all the more meaningful. I have seen the babies, held them and loved them. But those who gave these funds have never met them . Their love is true and kind and Christlike, as they help those who they do not know, and those who cannot help themselves.

When we become members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, we make a covenant with Christ. We promise that we will always remember Him, and we promise that we will bear one another's burdens, that we will mourn with those who mourn, comfort those who stand in need of comfort, and stand as witnesses of God at all times, in all things and all places (see Mosiah 18:8-10). Those friends in our church congregation at home have kept this covenant as they have generously given to those who go wanting.

I've felt so thankful to witness this, and to play some small part. What a great way to end our time in GoVap orphanage.