The refugee children from Bishop McGinn and Maria and I have known one another for some time. We’ve been through a lot together.

A Bishop Gibbons student we didn’t know approached Maria while she sat on Sue Silverstein’s classroom floor yesterday and asked who we were, where we came from, and what we were doing there.

She said they never had the kind of supplies to work with that they are receiving now, and they love them.

“They (me and Maria) are the reason we are here,” explained one of the girls. I wanted to cry a bit when I heard that; they are why I am there.

We know these girls well, and they know us.

We helped pay their tuition, got them clothes and shoes, books and music, help when they needed it. We are like old friends re-visiting when we come. We’ve seen them master English, grow up, plan for their future, and work hard.

Sue says they miss us when we cannot attend school due to weather or other complications.

And I know they miss Zinnia. They helped train her. They adore her. She adores them.

I took some photos to focus on the room’s affection and commitment to this work.

My best therapy dog idea was to let the people know the dog would comfort train the dog.

She grew up with these kids and recognizes everyone. Hser Nay always insisted Zinnia lie down before getting a treat. Every time Zinnia sees Hser Nay, even years later, she lies down.

 

Sue is her official GodDog Mother, and Zinnia gives her a reception and tail wag that no one else gets, even me. Seeing these kids grow up and prepare for college is always a joy. These are children who appreciate life and assistance, and we understand them.

It was a lovely visit; now that the weather is improving, I’m returning to a weekly routine. Maria will be along when she can and with her work permits. She is very close to these children, especially the girls she helped learn to sew.

I was busy interviewing Jared, but I took some photos which I hope will capture the spirit of the art class and our deep connection and commitment to it.

Sue told me once that she considered Zinnia, her dog, on loan to her. Zinnia has no problem with that; Sue is her official Godmother. Sue is in her element at Bishop Gibbons, doing the art teaching she has always wanted but never had the resources to do.

She is deeply grateful for the support the Army Of Good gives her knockout art project. Sue is my closest friend and one of the best people I know in this world. She knows me quite well.

The students love Zinnia. She sometimes gets overwhelmed, sits, hides behind me, and then rushes out for more love and attention. I know they slip her some treats as well. She loves to make kids smile and be happy.

Sue and Zinnia have the most beautiful connection.

 

The reaction to Zinnia is both humbling and uplifting. She is central to the work we are going at Bishop Gibbons. She is an instant morale booster.

 

Over the past year, we have donated over a dozen sewing machines to the art program, and everyone is used daily. Maria comes to fix the ones that break down. The kids love them but do not know how to use them. Maria is going to teach a class soon. We’re eager for Spring. Winter storms have kept me away.

 

 

People have begun sending Easter materials, including this big box of wooden eggs. Sue Silverstein, Bishop Gibbons, 2600 Albany Street, Schenectady, N.Y., 12304.

 

Sue gets boxes from the Army Of Good every day. She thanks you. The address is Sue Silverstein,  Bishop Gibbons High School, 2600 Albany Street, Schenectady, N.Y., 12304; she seeks discarded and unwanted things and turns them into art. She always needs painting canvas, acrylic paint, wood, jewelry, and metal objects.

I wanted to focus on Zinnia yesterday; she has the magical power to brighten up every space she enters.