Winter Warmth

As December's chill deepens, the biting wind grows stronger,  

yet we forge ahead, undeterred.  

Nature has hushed itself in this season,  

with only the glow of countryside fireworks to keep the warmth alive.  

The village stirs in tranquil stillness,  

smoke curling upwards,  

while the sharp, crisp sound of knives being honed  

pierces the serene winter calm.   

The atmosphere of butchering pigs and sheep is bustling yet organized,  

while corn is stacked high, a golden mound  

that holds the memories of harvests past and the promise of the year ahead.  

We share winter greetings with the children,  

offering small gift packages  

brimming with warmth and hope.  

May this gesture of kindness  

blossom in the chill of winter,  

and in the smiles of the children,  

shine with the light of spring. 

A Remarkable Little Fighter

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Despite her challenges with cerebral palsy, Shuyao has made incredible strides over the past two years, thanks to the devoted support of her family.  

Once, she was like a fragile leaf caught in the wind,  

quivering and clinging to the branches of destiny,  

too timid to raise her voice.  

The hands of her family are like gentle rain and warm sunshine, nurturing her growth over these two years of unwavering support, transforming her once-confused world into one filled with clarity. Shuyao has learned to feed herself, marking her first triumph—a flower daring to bloom in the wind. She navigates online shopping with ease now, each click representing a journey of exploration and a glimpse into her future. No longer does she hold back her words; her responses are lively and spirited. When her eyes connect, she sheds her nervousness, her muscle tension easing as her courage takes root, allowing her small universe to radiate with light. Her smile exudes strength, and with each step she takes, she boldly proclaims to the world, "I am a little warrior, and I am growing up with courage!"

Poetry and Distance

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Life encompasses more than the here and now; it embraces poetry and the vastness beyond.  

Winter is not solely defined by bitter cold, ice, and snow, but also by love and the warmth of sunlight.  

Though Zenan's father may have lost the use of his legs, he remains the steadfast pillar of hope for their family.  

Her mother, despite facing intellectual challenges, holds dear the names of every volunteer who has offered help.  

Though her words may be few, she embodies a spirit of simplicity and kindness.  

The poem etched on a small wooden board serves as her father's quiet encouragement, a testament to resilience and hope.  

 

In life, the winds and snows are unavoidable,  

yet she can stand as resilient as plum blossoms,  

leaving her sweet fragrance in the heart of winter's chill.  

Though the future may stretch far and twist with challenges,  

she understands that plum blossoms can thrive amidst the harsh wind and snow.  

The essence of perseverance shines through

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as Aoying, through her dedication and tenacity,  

has accomplished remarkable feats.  

This achievement has filled Aoying with newfound confidence and joy.  

Efforts are the first ray of morning light,  

casting warmth upon the aspirations within Aoying's heart.  

Persistence is found in the quiet hours spent studying late at night,  

etching dreams into the fabric of time.  

 

Change is not merely reflected in improved grades,  

but also in the glimmer of hope within her eyes,  

and the radiant sunshine that brightens her smile.  

Aoying strides forward, finding answers with each step she takes;  

her efforts and determination embody the most beautiful strength.  

Growth and transformation compose the melody of life.  

Through her actions, she conveys a powerful message:  

Every effort deserves recognition,  

and every dream is precious and worth nurturing.  

Spring is just around the corner, and love is on the horizon

During our winter visit, we encountered resilient children, compassionate parents, and welcoming villages, all of which revealed the tenacity of life and the strength of hope.  

In this frigid season, each smile, every transformation, and all acts of perseverance remind us that even though winter is harsh, the warmth of the human spirit can rival the embrace of spring.  

 

Where the smoke gently rises, individuals craft the poetry of life with their hands; and in the radiant smiles of children, dreams are quietly unfolding.  

Winter may persist, but in every place we visit, we leave behind a touch of warmth and a glimmer of light. Together, these small gestures create a beautiful prelude to the arrival of spring.  

May the future, whether it brings biting winds or gentle sunshine, empower every child to chase their dreams with courage;  

And may our journey continue to spread warmth to even more hearts.  

Spring is just around the corner, and love is on its way.  

The warmth in winter - A visit to the kids in Eleos project

As winter began to settle in, the chill in the air grew stronger, prompting us to embark on a visit to the children involved in the Eleos Project. Though we hadn’t announced our arrival to everyone, it seemed as if all the children were aware of our plans. Dressed in light garments, their faces radiated anticipation and happiness, allowing us to momentarily overlook the looming long nights of winter.

The winter sky held a faint glimmer of light. 

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Upon our arrival, we found Zilong seated at the small table on the kang (a heated platform), diligently working through his homework, each stroke of his pen captured in the soft glow around him.

The light was faint, yet it did nothing to diminish the focus and determination shining in his eyes.

 

 

I couldn't help but wish for him to have a larger desk, one that could nurture his thirst for knowledge. 

I longed for him to possess a bright desk lamp, illuminating the shadows of the night and guiding him on his educational journey.

Zilong, my wish for you is to flourish in this gentle light, until a day comes when your world is filled with warmth and brilliance.

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Wenting's mother skillfully crafts the fabric of daily life with her diligent hands. Every nook of their home sparkles with cleanliness, radiating a warmth akin to sunshine that brightens the heart.

 

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Love, quiet yet enduring, fills the air. Even though Guowei's mother is no longer with him, the profound love and support from his family chase away the shadows that linger in his heart.

It’s a form of quiet influence, akin to the soft glow of lights on a winter’s night—faint yet enduring.

 

Guowei's father prepared three portions of millet and three hefty pumpkins, casually informing us that they were harvested from his own fields, sending them along with us.

Though his words were delivered with a casual air, they were filled with sincerity. The golden grains of millet seemed to carry the warmth of the sun from the fields, while the pumpkins, round and robust, exuded the earthy fragrance of the land.

These humble gifts, though not lavish, were filled with his heartfelt intentions, embodying a small dream of spreading goodwill to others.

 

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For Xiaofei, the most surprising moment came quietly. Uncle Aori presented him with a special gift.

It was a world encyclopedia, a treasure trove where Xiaofei's dreams lay nestled within its sturdy cover.

Uncle Aori had remembered a wish that Xiaofei had mentioned casually, transforming it into this thoughtful and cherished gift.

As Xiaofei held it delicately, his eyes sparkled with a mix of surprise and gratitude that he couldn't hide. A shy smile spread across his face, radiating joy.

"Thank you, Uncle!" he said, his voice soft.

The gentle breeze swept through, carrying away Xiaofei's laughter, while each page of the encyclopedia fluttered like wings, transporting him to a broader world filled with the unknown and endless possibilities, allowing his imagination to take flight.

 

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As our visit ended, we were filled with deep emotion. 

The children’s growth and transformations resembled the ripe fruit hanging from autumn branches—plump, fresh, and fragrant. 

In their eyes sparkled a fervor for life, the brightest beacon of youth, illuminating the ordinary days. 

We wish for them to forge ahead with courage on the journey that lies before them, using their dreams as vessels and their hearts as oars, setting sail toward their own far-off horizons.