I told the students I felt like I had been given a double scoop ice cream cone because I got to be with them two days this week between the luncheon they hosted for the Widow’s and chapel. 
Y’all, I was so happy to see my friends, again.
Though I think I really disappointed one of the students because he asked me with cheerful anticipation if I brought any ice cream for them. He said my mentioning ice cream had made him hungry for some. 
So, just when I thought I had made a flub with explaining how excited I was to be with them again and had started to share, one of the students sweetly said:
“I would like a hug.”
To which I set my notes down on top of my Bible and got up and went over to give/get a hug when another student said:
“I want a hug, too!”
And he got up and started a line where I was hugging Molly.
I think Jesus was pleased with us pausing the no-ice-cream chapel for a hug line.
We’ve never done that before.
They never speak out without raising a hand; but I believe the Lord moved a student, or two, to encourage me.
It Never fails that Every time I go to school with them, I leave the most blessed.
My H&TA friends are my favorite friends.
Jesus is in this place and people.
Three of them volunteered to look up and read Scripture today.
One of them shared a video with me of their cousin riding a new four wheeler.
One asked me if could share the pictures I took today with him.
Many of my friends shared heartfelt prayer requests, and some of them – month after month – continue to lift the same burdens they carry for others to the Lord.
One of the students neatly gathered all my things together while I was visiting (and getting more hugs) and walked me back up the stairs and back in to the dogwood blooming corridor outside when chapel was over.
Yes, the Lord is in this place and in these people.
A few of the precious staff joined in the picture today.