Thursday, July 9, 2009
See their faces. . .
As I sat crunched in the back of a speed-the-light Kia, soaked with perspiration and the stench of the mid-afternoon traffic pollution, I could not help but bow before God in thanks for His gentle touch. I sat uncomfortably in the back (the very back) of a 5 passenger vehicle that was hauling 7 as our host wove in and out of traffic. Believe it or not, we can fit 7 adults, 3 children, and 1 adult on top! Despite the heat and the cramped space, I knew I was on my way to comfort. I was retuning to running water, electricity (though inconsistent), and the option to change into a fresh set of clothing. I had no anxiety for my next meal or where I would lie my head to dream. This is more than I can say for many.
We had just departed the slum community after measuring the progress of the well digger. We have a long way to go to dig 120 ft. Everything is done by hand here. Remarkable! Heroes are bred in places like this. While the Nepali men worked, we took time to spend with the children. Verbal communication may be a challenge, but a picture says a thousand words! I've learned from past travels that children love digital cameras!! Between myself and 3 other interns, we must have taken hundreds of photos of about 15-20 children. They would run to us, pull on us, and shout "one photo!" After a brief pose, they would crowd around each photographer seeking a glimpse of themselves in such a small image. They were hungry for our attention. We were happy to give it.
The children have no perception of poverty, how poor they are, or the filth they live in. Perhaps this is God's mercy. They are content playing with rubbish, old bicycle tires, and sticks. Why shouldn't they be? This is all they know and all that is available to them. The children do not beg for the latest trend or fad in clothing. They're fortunate to have clothes. They do not seek the latest toy or pout because they do not have a cell phone. They're happy to have food.
I left them today praying that they experienced some bit of joy, some happiness from the strange white visitors who took their photos. Will they ever know why we have come? Will we have an opportunity to tell them? Will they understand? Will they ever know the love of God? I pray they see it in our faces. So I sat in the Kia as the busy streets of Kathmandu passed by and I thanked God. I thanked Him for allowing me to be here and I thanked Him for being with me. I thanked Him for the opportunity to love.
See their faces in the attached photos. Remember them and pray for them.
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Nepal Day 10
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