Blessings of Being on the Black Team — Steve Thatcher

Working with the little kids is a joy, to be sure.  I’m not going to talk about that though.  You will hear all about them from the teens.  We have the best people with us in the village school helping make this an experience to treasure.  

Nidhi is our translator.  She is professional, kind, clever and is always a reliable lead to measure propriety.  When we are at the school she relays any information to the children, teachers, or head mistress clearly and with no misunderstandings.  If she is not sure what you mean by a phrase or word, she clarifies before trying to explain.  She is beautiful inside and out and we are grateful for her.  

The “Black Team” is blessed with some of the most clear-headed, loving teens I have ever known.  Parker has a heart that breaks yours.  His face shows the depth of emotion he feels for the kids that taught him the meaning of the word love.  

Lucy is a joy to know.  She gives her all to the kids and they adore her.  Don’t be fooled by her quiet demeanor.  She packs a witty comeback!  

Ellie is a natural nurturer.  I love watching her love on the children and give all she’s got to them.  She is so kind and patient with the rowdy ones.  

Brin is in love with our village.  She has taken so many pictures with her polaroid.  She loves teaching, and the children love her fun personality.  Her focus triples when she has a powerful purpose.  It has been inspiring to watch her with her kids.  

Bailey has the biggest fan club.  If you know her you know why.  She radiates.  Her smile is infectious and she is so energetic with the lessons and games.  As a service to one of the teachers she decided to hand-make him flash cards that he could use in his math lessons in her free time at night.  

Hunter is a born leader.  He is ready to extend a hand and work at the mention of a need.  He is patient and loving and the children want to be with him.  

I’m really going to miss being around people that challenge me every day to be better.  I want to be kind as Ellie, clever as Lucy, to love like Parker, serve like Hunter, radiant as Bailey, and surprising as Brin.  I have a long way to go. 

11 Responses to “Blessings of Being on the Black Team — Steve Thatcher”

1. Andrea Stolfa, on April 5th, 2018 at 6:14 pm Said:

   Thank you for the post. I don’t think I could have hit refresh anymore without freaking out!😀. Be well!
   Andrea Stolfa

2. Jen Stewart, on April 5th, 2018 at 6:52 pm Said:

   Thank you Steve for taking care of my girl. It was so great reading your post, you truly are amazing!

3. Jenni Dickerson, on April 5th, 2018 at 7:23 pm Said:

   If I had a nickel for every time i’ve Hit the refresh button, I could take a trip to India! Man, we just live for your posts! Thank you! Love hearing about these awesome teens!

4. Michelle Lambert, on April 5th, 2018 at 8:24 pm Said:

   I love hearing about how these kids make an impression. Thank you.. and yes, I’d also be a very wealthy woman if I had a nickel for each refresh.. Scares me to consider what next year and college will do to me! Many many thanks for guiding these kids and letting them shine. Travel safely home!
   Michelle

5. Kirsten Corbett, on April 5th, 2018 at 9:40 pm Said:

   Thank you for this post, for your example and for taking care of our teens. I loved reading this, it has made my day. You have totally figured Lucy out! Can’t wait to see you all in 3 days!!!
   Kirsten, Lucy’s mom

6. Tami, on April 5th, 2018 at 10:10 pm Said:

   Steve, you are so nice! I can always count on you to find the good in people. We miss all of you and can’t wait for you to get home!!!

   Tami Sorenson (Camden’s Momma)

7. Jen Howard, on April 5th, 2018 at 10:14 pm Said:

   So fun to get an update on the black team!! #GOBRIN It sounds like such an amazing experience for all involved. Thank you for your leadership Steve.

8. Amy McKenzie, on April 5th, 2018 at 11:05 pm Said:

   Steve
   Thanks so much for you kind remarks about everyone. We are so grateful to have you working with our children. Hunter has thoroughly enjoyed working with all of the leaders and we are excited to hear about your adventures. Thanks for all you do!

9. Chad Thorell, on April 5th, 2018 at 11:12 pm Said:

   Great blog Steve!! Hope you are having the time of your life! Thanks for making a difference!! You’re the Man!

10. Ryan Ewer, on April 6th, 2018 at 12:33 am Said:

    Steve,

    Thank you for your post! It means so much as a parent to see our children through another’s eyes. I have enjoyed hearing about all of the amazing experiences, but your description of the youth in your group brings a smile to my face.
    Thanks for helping to provide these life-changing experiences for Ellie.

    Ryan (Ellie’s Dad)

11. Mary Ewer, on April 6th, 2018 at 12:47 am Said:

    Thanks so much for sharing! What a blessing to hear how Ellie is helping.

    Love,
    Mary Ewer