a visit to an orphanage in nairobi

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i love kids but put me beside one and i'll look like a fool. i am always at a lost as to how to talk to them or play with them. i am a big kid myself and the idea of taking care of another kid is kind of scary. when kids cry, i'll be crying in my mind... `heeeeeeeeeeeelp!'.

so when we were walking to the orphanage, i was feeling a little nervious. we were advised to help out in the toddlers' room as they were more responsive to strangers and could express their needs. thus it will be easier for inexperience carers like us. however when we arrived they were all having their nap. so we ended up in the babies' room.

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once we entered the room, the baby closest to us wobbled towards us and hugged our legs. how sweet! so i thought maybe it wasn't so difficult after all. my optimism dissipated soon after.

the kids started to cry and i had no idea what they wanted. i tried to cuddle them but they wanted their usual nannies. i felt awkward not knowing what to do nor where to stand. just 15mins and i felt totally helpless and defeated.

once outdoor, the kids were distracted and more relaxed. gingerly, i inched closer to them, brought them more toys, played with them, cuddled them. when we finally brought them back into their room, i was overwhelmed...there was so much satisfaction when a kid finally respond to you. that crying face finally giving way to a shy smile, that tiny hand grabbing your shirt, your hand....

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we walked pensively back to our apartment. i made a silent prayer for those who are suffering and thanked god for all that i have. how blessed we are.