Scintillating Smiles

March 8, 2005
It seems to be a glorious day today. One step forward and ten steps backwards has been the rule working here, but today, I made a leap in the right direction that supersedes all the other discrepancies placed in my path along the way. I'm on a role, riding the waves from the top today. I have to seize this moment and write a brief note to you all.

In addition to supporting some local health facilities and bringing them back to some functionality, I got involved in two local orphanages that have been intentionally or unintentionally forgotten in the search and rescue mission of the international community. The emergency phase ended days after the tsunami hit, though on paper, the emergency phase officially ends March 26th. In this current recovery phase, people are busy establishing themselves and securing ways of remaining in the country to continue with their intended work. No one is sure what the Indonesian government will decide as to the future of the many international aide workers here to offer their services. Indonesia has been relatively independent from international condemnation over the years and it is this independence and confidence that leaves people clueless as to their next move. We are now in watch and wait mode.

The orphanage has taken my attention because of the deplorable conditions facing the children's daily lives. Already a disadvantaged little people, they deserve more than a barn like structure. And they shouldn't be ignored because they are pre-tsunami victims. I brought my boss to visit the facility and he has shown some interest in finding some solutions. I've also asked a number of other organizations to make some offering and I've gotten toiletries and towels, rice and detergent so far. I want their barn to look like a room, one that pleases them when they wake up in the morning. I went to buy them a toilet today, but then I realized that they truly prefer the squat position as is the Indonesian way. I want them to have adequate lighting and a mirror to see themselves and celebrate life with a smile that they can see. Last evening, I brought them some detergent and it was lovely seeing them excited over such a simple offering. And today, someone wonderful from Hong Kong made a donation from the heart. I never spoke with her directly, but someone we have a communication through the soul that makes life itself live. MMMM good. I'm happy. I will be able to buy them some special things and I will take pictures and let their smiles be seen by all.
From a happy person today
Cary