Nena, We Love You!
Monday, May 02, 2016
Our awesome and much-loved Home Caregiver Nena left Kopila Valley today to return home to the United States. She has worked with us for the better part of 3 years, and she is one in a million. The kids put on a special farewell satsung just for her, complete with singing and dancing and poems and even a little play about her, mimicking how she gives out essential oils when they feel sick or does yoga with them for fun. Below is a letter to Nena written by one of our older girls to thank her for all the time she spent with us, which she read aloud to Nena that night.
Dear Nena,
I could see you were filled with special overflowing energy from the first time I met you. You were down to earth and up for anything. Right from the beginning you taught bewildered girls volleyball, then soccer, then amazing yoga skills, and then there comes fun talks. We've spent so many hours just talking with you. You've taught us what life is. You taught us that life is worth living for and our family is worth dying for. Not only that, you watched us grow. No one in the world could doubt our love for you. You're cool and pretty and have a breathtaking laugh. I'll always remember your insane workout sessions, hilarious dance moves, the comforting hugs, and the countless times you told me, "I’m always, always here for you."
I'm grateful for every hour gossiping and acknowledging, I'm grateful for all the memories and moments we've shared. They are the most wonderful moments of my life that I proudly count. The weeks, months, years you have been here are the shining memories we will hold forever. They define our childhood. We loved you for so long and we'll always love you. We might be far, but our string of love burns strong. When you miss us, just put your one hand on the heart and hear us speak, we'll do the same here.
Nena, I wish you will always dance, because girl you can dance! We hope you are always happy and have a reason to smile. But always remember us in your moments of darkness. Let us hold your sadness with you because that's exactly what family is for. We may not all have the same blood, but our love is stronger than blood and we love you so much it's hard to put into words. You're a heartbreaker Nena, not by wearing it down, but by making it bigger and bigger until it bursts. You've left a mark on our heart.
You taught us so much Nena. You've taught us the meaning of real family through your love and care for us.
You're leaving tomorrow and we all have that pang of hurt and sadness filled in our heart, but there is a promise and hope still packed in our hearts because of course, of course you'll come back.
We cried, we laughed, we fought, we had disagreements, we had fun, but I know, we know you'll come back to have some more.
Love,
A