Over the three months I have spent in Africa, my time has been marked by two thingsweeding and children. Both have provided good lessons, worthwhile ministry, and ways to invest in the communities in which I lived. But one was noticeably more fun. The children.
The opportunities I have had to meet, get to know, and love kids in South Africa and Swaziland has been so special. The time I spent with kids at Phumlani in Cape Town, as well as, the chance to love on kids at the care points around Nsoko are sure to be some of my favorite memories of the Race.
As I was reflecting on these experiences, I began to notice a theme with the kids I grew to love the most. They were quiet, unassuming, and in search of so much love. Playing with all of the kids was fun but I will be the first to tell you that coming up with fun games, using my imagination, and just generally acting silly is not exactly my forte. I am a person who enjoys just being with people, observing my surroundings, and taking it all in.
This is exactly what I found in the children who are dearest to my heart. They often just wanted to be held. They just wanted to feel loved, to receive quiet attention.
Sometimes wed talk, mostly in broken language with lots of pointing. Sometimes wed sit silently, just rocking back and forth. Often I would ask if they wanted to go play with the other children to which they typically responded by wrapping their arms a little tighter around my neck and softly shaking their heads no.
(photo credit: Emily Schwartz)I never went looking for these kids but they seemed to find me everywhere we went. We were kindred spirits. We wanted to love and be loved. We looked forward to seeing each other. We enjoyed just quietly being together.
I cant share all of their stories with you. To be honest, I dont know all of their stories. They never spoke much, in English or otherwise. But their faces offer more than my words ever could.
(Photo credit: Emily Schwartz)
As I prepare to leave for India, I want to share with you the faces of my kindred spirits. The children who stole my heart in Africa.
