Jessae awoke to the familiar sounds of her family moving about. Her grandmother’s gentle humming mingled with the sizzle of breakfast on the fire, while her mother swept the floor with swift, practiced motions. "Good morning, Mama! Good morning, Grandmother!" Mama, arms dusted with flour, smiled and pulled Jessae into a warm embrace. Grandmother winked and promised a story for later.
Jessae and her cousins chatted softly, their voices blending with the morning breeze as they walked to get some water from village watering hole.
Emme, the family’s little dog, darted between their feet, tail wagging with excitement as they waited for our water jugs to fill. "Race you back home!" one cousin called, and they hurried along the path, jugs sloshing with every step.
Jessae gathered eggs from the coop, her little brother trailing behind, eyes wide with curiosity. Emme pranced around, barking playfully at the chickens. The family came together at the table, sharing steaming bowls and stories before the day’s adventure. Mama packed posho and beans, while Baba carefully arranged items in a woven basket for the special event.
Baba led the way, his deep voice starting a song that the others quickly joined. The market neared, colors brightening—clothes, fruits, and vegetables crowding vibrant stalls. "We're almost there! I can't wait!" Jessae called out, her heart thumping with anticipation.
The leader welcomed everyone, his voice carrying over the crowd. He introduced Michael, a friendly man with a wide grin, and Ruby, who held a guitar and waved cheerfully. "Hello, friends! We are so happy to be here with you today," Michael began, sprinkling jokes among his words and drawing laughter. Ruby led everyone in singing “Jesus Loves Me,” her clear voice weaving through the crowd as children joined in, clapping along. Michael spoke about God and His love, his words reaching Jessae’s heart, filling her with wonder and hope.
"Are you ready for the big surprise?" Children cheered, voices ringing out. Everyone joined in the countdown: "5...4...3...2...1!" The cloth flew away, revealing stacks of colorful boxes. Ruby and Michael handed them out, one by one, until every child had a gift. "This is for you, Jessae," Ruby said, placing a box into Jessae’s eager arms.
Inside, a purple envelope rests atop a soft brown teddy bear and a beautiful doll. Jessae pulls out the note, eyes shining, as Ruby reads aloud. "Hello. My name is Logan. I am 10 years old. I live in Michigan, USA. I want you to know that God loves you and that I love you. I put things in this shoebox just for you. I hope you like them. I am praying for you. You are my new friend."Jessae hugged the teddy close, feeling warmth and love spread through her chest. The doll’s dress shimmered in the sunlight, and she cradled it gently, her heart full.
Baba led a prayer, every head bowed in thanks. Jessae looked at her family, her heart overflowing with gratitude for the gifts, for love, and for the story her grandmother would soon tell. "Thank you, God, for these blessings—for the shoeboxes, for our friends, and especially for Jesus," As the stars blinked awake, the family shared their meal happily.
