The goodbyes continue as we prepare for our return to the States. Just a few hot weeks of summer stand between us and a new chapter, but I knew I couldn’t leave without sharing about our amazing and fantastic Mery!

If you haven’t met Mery, you’ve missed out. Mery is the first Dominican teacher to ever be employed by Freedom, and she’s still a part of our team! That is just an incredible testament to her heart, and I am so thankful to know her.

Back in 2013, Mery and I had the privilege of co-teaching together in Lima. We shared a classroom of sorts – a small, open-air room up in the top of Lima’s Catholic church. (Lima is an anomaly because it has 3 different church buildings. Most other bateys have 1 church – or none.) Mery and I learned a lot about working together in those days. At times, there were language and cultural barriers, but I couldn’t have picked a better person to spend my days with. She taught me a lot!

Mery has quite literally been with us through it all – from not having space of our own to rejoicing at where we are today! This wonderful gal has done much to help this ministry become what it is. She has been so flexible, so willing to do whatever is needed. She’s taught first grade, helped with camp programming, and worked as the technology teacher. In recent years, she’s moved out of the classroom and is handling our front office as the school secretary. Her decorating and organizational skills are often put to good use when we have events at school or in the villages. She really takes her job seriously, and we’re blessed to have such a hard worker on staff.

I love that Mery taught both of my boys in first grade. She did her best to make their class time fun and exciting. I often remember walking by their classroom to see her leading everyone in a song or other fun, dynamic activity.

On top of all she’s done to make Freedom a better place, I just love who Mery is as a person. Her happy personality is contagious! She is fantastic at getting people to rally behind a cause. One memory of her that I’ll always treasure is watching her beat on a drum on the back of our safari truck – the kids were riding home on Independence Day, laughing and singing along with her. It was a “small” moment, but it communicated her love for our students. She is such a fun-loving young lady, and she always has a smile on her face!

I haven’t been able to spend as much time with Mery in recent years, but I still feel connected to her. We share a common goal: wanting to see students grow in their knowledge of and love for Jesus. Lots of seeds have been planted and watered because of her efforts. God has done some pretty neat things through Mery because of her willingness to be used by Him.

I must say goodbye for now, sweet Mery! So thankful to know you!