The Process Complete.

So last night was the big one. The Graduation ceremony for class six.

KOTO well wishers numbered around 500, they came they clapped, they cheered and a few shed tears too.

It was a lavish affair that beffitted the kids' achievements. Pop stars, choirs, pyrotechnics, falling balloons, specially scored music, specially made films etc etc etc. It was all in their honour.

Did I cry? No, well not really. I welled up frequently. I took several moments at several times to compose myself. I hugged, I reassured - I stole KOTO posters from the walls to sneak to the graduates as souvenirs. I didn't say goodbye. I know they won't be able to stay away. I won't see them as often. But I will see them.

Because, like all the times at KOTO when the moment becomes overwhelming, it's only later that I try to put in context my emotions.

And the emotion isn't sadness. It's not quite happiness either. To best explain it I think I would have to say it's the process of being humbled.

The KOTO kids are a reflection of the country they are from. They've had it tough. They've had to fight. They've given their all and worked hard without complaints. And some how they have turned out magnificently.

It is that which is truly humbling.

Another volunteer said goodbye today and I reflectd on the goodbyes I will be giving in nine months. Emotionally I can't imagine getting through that. Because while you build ties with the kids they ultimately come and go. The staff that I have worked with since the start are remarkable and they have been my constant in this big KOTO family.

Today I am just so proud to be a part of it.

* The pic above is one of my own - a KOTO graduate with his proud family visiting from their countryside home. Expect more pics soon from the pro photgrapher at the event.