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All of our hearts were touched today by the loving smiles of children who were eager to learn.  We visited a nearby orphanage and were accepted with open arms and loving hearts.  All the children were so happy to talk to and play games with us, and I really enjoyed seeing everyone, both the Glimpsers and children, so engaged in the learning process.

We helped the children learn basic English vocabulary, and, even though there were a few quiet kids at first, all of the children really opened up and invited us into their lives with a bounty of love and compassion.  I think I speak for all of us when I say that the worst part of the day was saying good bye to all those loving smiles.

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Even though we were all in a sad mood after leaving the orphanage, we were once again inspired by the stories of important educational leaders in Constanza.  Arelis, Jose, and Ana Natividad taught us of the importance of education and how powerful a tool knowledge is throughout life.  I was most surprised by the percentage of uncertified teachers in Constanza- over half of all teachers are uncertified.  However, Ana Natividad told us about the school which she began in order to help increase the amount of literate children and adults in Constanza by providing classes with certified volunteer teachers.  All the speakers today inspired us to reflect on our education and allowed us to realize how lucky we are to be provided with free quality education.  Even though I do not speak much Spanish, I was inspired by the many stories and was excited to present the speakers with a gift from the whole group.

We also had the opportunity to begin our English tutoring classes today in which will continue to teach the locals for the next couple of weeks.  I think everyone really enjoyed teaching English classes and I was proud of everyone for providing a different, but effective, type of education despite the language barrier.  I am glad to have been El Lider Del Dia on education day as knowledge and education are such an important part of daily life.
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