This year our park took part in “Butterfly Blossoms of Giving”. Guests in the park were given the opportunity to select a paper butterfly representing a child from the Rio Grande Children’s Home and buy a gift for that child or make a monetary donation. The Rio Grande Children’s Home provides a place to stay for 22 children between the ages of 9 months to 18 years from our own community who are removed from their homes due to abuse, neglect or other circumstances.
Ray and I, along with Patsy, another activities team member were asked to serve as elves at the Christmas Party held for the children. We weren’t quite sure what to expect, but found it so touching and rewarding. The party was held at the Butterfly Center here in Mission, Texas. I was paired up with a little 4 year old girl who just tore at my heartstrings. While it was difficult to communicate with her since her English is limited, I did manage to find out that she hated carrots, loved the color purple and just wanted to be loved and hugged. Ray took on the job of pushing the stroller with the youngest child through the trails of the park. We also found it quite funny that when lunch was served, the children (all being Mexican) chose a hotdog over a tamale.
After lunch our jobs as elves began. Christmas carols were sung and candy was given out while waiting for Santa to arrive. All 22 children each received a pair of shoes, a jacket, an outfit and a toy. It was so touching to see how excited they were at receiving a pair of shoes and an outfit, but the most surprising thing was that not one of those children wanted what the other one received. They were just so thankful for what they got and everyone of them were so well mannered.
When the party ended, we left with mixed feelings, joy for the happiness we brought to them but sadness for what they have experienced. We were not able to take photos for obvious reasons, but I know every one of their smiling faces will be etched in my memory for many years to come.
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