I was in paradise today! No it wasn’t a white sandy beach on the water…it was at a very small poor orphanage on the outskirts of Pnohm Penh. My personal tuk tuk driver Curly who has become a great friend over the past three days took me and my cameraman Khalil to a plave where the kids glowed like shinning lights. Dirty as it may have been, it cleansed my soul and my heart to see the smiles on their faces when us visitors showed up with massive bags of rice that would keep them fed for sometime. One of the youngsters stole my heart when I found out he was a heart surgery survivor. We played soccer, we played basketball we laughed, I cried. And as I tried to fight back the tears I was met with hugs and laughter that brought me back to the realization that even though these kids were so called victims of circumstances. They were all truly happy. Not one of them had a look of sadness on their faces.
We danced and talked for hours and they were proud to show me their rooms . How I ever got this opportunity I am so thankful. I found it hard to leave. But like anything in life, the moments are only temporary and then it was time to bid farewell. It made me think of all the family gatherings I’ve had over the years. The summer sports camps, and the love my family surrounded me with. I never did without. My inner child shone through as both my hands were being held with love. I had children jumping on my back. That’s what happens when you walk into any situation with an open heart and mind free of judgment. It makes me look at all the people that honk their horns in rush hour, the people who panic in long lines. These kids with nothing other than the love in their hearts have only the moment and a life outside the orphanage what is unknown to look forward to. These kids are strong with courage. And the fact one of the kids gave me a special bracelet he made to wear made this day one I’ll never forget.
LOVE LOVE LOVE – Ryan.