A couple weeks ago, we visited a local orphanage. It was one of the coolest experiences ever.
The older kids played traditional Korean drums for us and we were mesmerized.
We brought them 70 pairs of pink and blue Crocs and bags of American candy. It was like Christmas! After the drum performance, the shoes were distributed one by one to the kids in the most orderly fashion.
Some of them tore into the candy and gobbled it up, some saved it for later, and most of them wanted to share it with us (one little girl really wanted to feed me mini fudge stripe cookies).
I guess I didn’t know what to expect. Admittedly, part of me felt sorry for them and assumed they’d be dirty, have holes in their clothes, and permanent frown lines on their faces. I know how terrible that sounds. I didn’t grow up this way, but I’ve seen movies (Annie). I don’t know their stories, I don’t know how they came to live together in this big house. I don’t know what they have or what they don’t have. And I quickly learned my assumptions were very wrong and I was ashamed. They amazed me with their gratitude. They were well behaved, well cared for. I was in awe at their sense family – they belonged together. The big kids looked out for the littles. They comforted and helped them.
The rest of our visit was spent playing, laughing, and hugging. Language wasn’t a barrier here, smiles are a universal language and joy resonated throughout the room. They loved my camera and were exceptional subjects. Quick to flash a grin and a peace sign…then burst into giggles when I showed them their portrait. It made my heart swell to see that they are so happy!
They loved Owen and Della and were fascinated by their white skin, blue eyes and blonde hair.
I’m glad we had the opportunity to do this and I’m anxious to go back. I loved spreading love, seeing their smiles and sharing their joy.
xoxo
Janelle Cook says
What an incredible experience!