Written by: Carl Tan, Events Coordinator
On a warm afternoon in the Countryside Covered Court, the kids of Little Lights Ministry gathered to greet a special visitor, a little girl by the name of Jovee, accompanied by her mother, Avee and other relatives (her tito Jun, papa lolo Alex, tita Aileen, tita Nene, and tita Alma). Jovee, instead of celebrating her 3rd birthday with the usual lavish party with family and friends, instead celebrates her special day by spending time with the Little Lights kids, who were more than happy to have her in their company.
When the sponsors arrived, they were introduced by the host Ate Amy, who then greeted them with Hi’s and Hello’s, and Jovee responded by demonstrating her singing talents with a sample of “Silent Night”. After a brief settle down time wherein the kids danced to popular songs such as BAAM and Boom Boom, Ate Amy grouped the kids with the volunteers, and had them come up with their own group names and cheers, resulting in a total of 5 groups. With the groups set, the games could finally begin. It started off with the classic Stop Dance, wherein the kids danced and froze at intervals of the songs. Some just couldn’t resist the urge to move, and were thus eliminated, eventually leaving one team the victor. This game was followed by Ate Amy’s relay variation of Raise the Ball, which then led into the final game, the Caterpillar Relay. All throughout the games, the teams were spirited and competitive due to the lure of a prize, and eventually three teams came out and won either beautiful slippers or their own DIY (decorate it yourself) eco bag.
After the games, everyone was tired and out of energy, and that made it the perfect time for snacks. Everyone was treated to a delicious meal of chicken lollipops and mac n’ cheese. Everyone feasted on the tasty food, and filled their bellies to the brim, though some thoughtful kids decided to take their food home to share with their families.
The last part of the activity was the awarding of prizes and the giveaway of school supplies by the sponsors. The kids were ecstatic and full of energy after receiving their new school supplies and prizes, the complete opposite of their tired selves post-game. Finally, the program capped off with a singing of happy birthday for the 3-year old celebrant. As everyone gathered around the table to sing Jovee Happy Birthday, she blew out the candle with her mother, putting an end to what was truly a beautiful day. As a final token of their appreciation, the family even gave the cake away to Pastor Casaje to distribute among the children.
Though Jovee is not even old enough to analyze complicated issues like poverty or abuse, she has made quite a difference on her special day through her mother Avee. Through spending time with the kids, playing with them, and simply being present, she and her family have made an amazing impact in their lives. No doubt that the virtue of giving is something Jovee’s family hopes she cultures and develops, and this is definitely a step in the right direction. All in all, Jovee’s birthday has served as a blessing not only for Jovee and her family, but also for the kids of Little Lights.
