The other day I was
sitting at Mission of Hope during our lunch/rest time – and a few of the little
girls there insisted on braiding my hair. Naturally, I hesitated when they
began to yank on my hair, but most of them were gentle, and corrected the ones
who weren’t. Three little ones gathered around me – and erupted with giggles.
Fafa, a short,
pearly-white smiling, chubby cutie-pie held my face with her two little hands
and smiled, making faces at me, and patting my face with love. They talked about my hair being blond,
and apparently that was silly to them because it prompted more giggles (I think
this is also the reason that it wasn’t staying in quite the way they’d hoped)
but they continued working on my hair all the more.
By the end of this
delightful journey, I had two little braids and a poofy-messy bun to sport,
complete with my stylish bandana, wrapped just as they’d deemed “beautiful”.
They took my by the hand so I could go show my “friends” (my team) – and with
great pride showed me to their friends. “Belle” they announced (meaning pretty)…and
even though I was sweaty, dirty, and a little worn out from all the excitement
of the day, there was a special warmth and love to be found in this small
moment.
Daisha (one of my newly acquired buddies), climbing in my lap on the ground,
nestling her back against my chest, and throwing rocks with me at various
objects – all the while giggling, and appreciating the otherwise daunting
sun/heat. That’s what love is about – little moments where people feel
treasured and accepted, safe and valued — just like Daisha and Fafa.
