This afternoon we visited the children at Teule orphange. Today's experience was the highlight of my trip so far. The children were loving and sweet and welcomed us with beaming smiles on their faces. Despite the hardships and trauma they have endured, these children shined from the inside out. I noticed that in contrast to the children we visited in the boma yesterday, the kids at the orphanage had more of their basic needs met. In addition, they seemed to have higher level needs being fulfilled, like affection and belonging. It seemed to me that because of this, the children at the orphanage were able to form more genuine relationships and connections with our group of volunteers. It wasn't about what we were bringing or what resources we had to offer, but rather what experiences we could create with them.
To get the children comfortable with being adjusted, we had them observe John, the director of the orphanage. John was born in the U.S. but moved to Nigeria as a kid. Several years ago, he moved to Kenya and began the Teule orphanage in Kimana. John is like a father to all the children. In fact, all the staff treat the children with the same love and affection as a parent.
As soon as I stepped off the bus, this little cutie caught my eye. Several minutes later, Martin approached me and subtly grabbed my arm. He stayed by my side for several minutes before stepping in front of me and reaching up, as though he wanted to be picked up. One toss in the air turned into about 50 and before I knew it I was exhausted! Martin stayed by my side all afternoon, whether it was holding my hand, sitting in my lap, or being tossed in the air. Although he did not understand English, we still found a way to communicate through making funny noises and facial expressions. Saying goodbye to him was difficult, but I am so grateful for the afternoon that I spent with him.
Our camera guy, Jeff, noticed that this kid (David) was especially curious about the filming process and video equipment. Jeff made this young man's day when he handed off the job to him and asked him to film the activities. This kid was a natural! He even began interviewing adults like a real documentarian. It was incredible to see such genuine talent from someone who had never held a camera before.
At dinner this evening, Jeff shared with us that he made a commitment to David. Jeff promised to send an old camera of his to David once he returned to the U.S. and assist him in learning how to use it via Skype. I have no doubt that one day this kid will have his own production business!
Before we left the orphanage, we handed out some soccer balls. In Kenya, a soccer ball costs about $40 USD...That's about an average month's salary here. The children were incredibly grateful for the gift and began playing right away!
These kids really wanted to test out my strength... I'd say I passed the test.
Little Martin loving every second of this. And so am I!
I have about 45 pictures like this because Martin LOVED to take pictures of himself. But I decided to spare you all and only post one.