Tashi is one of our veteran rehabilitation promoters, or second generation as she describes it, at our therapy program at ASELSI in Guatemala. She has been working with us for over eight years and being the mother of two children, both born prematurely, she’s not completely unfamiliar with some of the experiences of the families coming each week. When I recently asked her what she’d like to share about her experience working at ASELSI, this is what she shared. 

For years I thought about the difficulties I’ve faced in rearing my children. You remember when we first did our training and I thought there was something wrong with my daughter’s feet, but you said it was all okay. Then when my son was born, he was premature and had developmental delays; however, I was able to used what I had learned from working at ASELSI to help him at home. Today, they’re both doing great and studying in school. 

In comparison to what I’ve seen with the other mom’s and their children in the therapy program, I’ve realized rearing my children isn’t really that hard. I’m thankful for my children and all the things they are able to do. I’ve learned to stop and really value all that I have and not take things for granted. 

My heart has also changed in how I approach the moms of the children I am working with. I feel my heart has softened and become more compassionate toward their burdens and struggles. As they allow me, I try to hug each one of them when they bring their children in to therapy. I think they need it, and it’s a great way to show them love and support. I’m so happy to know these moms that have now become my friends. They’ve opened up and shared with me their joys, struggles, burdens, and concerns. As they do, I pray, asking God to give me the words He would have me share to bring encouragement and hope.

I’m so thankful to God to know these moms. It brings me great joy. I’m happy to be part of this team. Thank you.