I’m not much of a kid person, with the big exception of my nieces and nephews, and some select friends’ kids; however, there always seems to be that one kid that sneaks his way into my heart.
This kid
Our ministry this month was visiting gypsy neighborhoods and playing with the kids. Our first day there, Antonio came over and pointing at me said, “Mamai”. When you’ve been travelling the world for 7 months, you get used to hearing strange things, so I just rolled with it and smiled. The next day we went back and the same little guy came over, “Mamai”. This time I had a translator so I asked what that meant, “Grandma”, is what I was told. Okay then… (The upside to this is he knows my real name as well)
It has become somewhat of a serious joke, (honestly I think everyone else is a little jealousJ) among us. Every time we interact with the kids he always comes over to say hi to me, “Mamai”! Yesterday one of the girls asked my name. Her response was, “oh, Antonio’s Mamai”.
The kids in this neighborhood have seen more than any kid their age should see. I saw a kid go from a look of despair to smiles from just being with us and feeling the love.
Making these kids smile isn’t as hard as you’d think, and sadly just a tiny bit of love is more than they normally receive. A hug, catching them when they jump, playing hand games, or a day with Mamai is all it takes. This adorable kid chose me, and if I get to love him as a mamai should, it will be my pleasure.
Jesus said, let the children come unto me
and forbid them not, for of such is the kingdom of heaven.
