Desiree's Diary

July 3rd, 2008

This is one of an occasional series of columns from Desiree,
who is serving an orphanage in the Republic of Uzbekistan, (formerly part of the USSR).
 

06-16-08
The upcoming event at the Q has overridden normal daily activities and has gotten so bad that one worker from each group was sent to work outside today in the plus 115 degree heat. If that wasn’t bad enough, that left one worker to each group to manage all the kids. The funny thing is, however, that they are violating government regulations regarding the kids, so that they can put on a nice appearance for the government officials that will be coming soon. Culture Lesson #31: Appearance is more important than anything.

Attitudes there are as bad as the heat and we have become targets for the rising anger, since they can’t really express it where it belongs. Could it get more fun than this? Today, we were given a typical greeting upon arrival with smiles, hugs, customary kisses on the cheeks and numerous traditional questions as to the health of our families. Everyone all smiles and happy.

Within seconds, my colleague was getting a tongue lashing from the same woman who had just kissed her cheeks and smiled graciously. Our work at the Q was again threatened. The verbal onslaught was a painful surprise attack. My head was spinning and reeling and grasping to again accept Culture Lesson #31.

With the new restrictions they placed on our work, we went ahead with our day. I did a great job of assimilating Culture Lesson #31 and smiled at everyone, even giving kisses and asking about their families. The kids were genuinely glad to see me, but disappointed that I didn’t bring any toys and they shared their disappointment quite well. We played pretend as they ate their apples and cookies under the shade of the trees. They crowded around me as each took a turn as to who I would hold next. They each had a request for what I could bring next time as penance for not bringing toys today. Some of the outlandish request had us all laughing and I so appreciated their creativeness and openness.

Back inside, I searched for the kid I met last week who was still being held in isolation. I had taken his picture and promised to bring him copies. He’s one of those kids that instantly tears at my heart. His head shaved bald, to control lice and his complaining tone about only getting “kasha” for every meal, reveals his adamant spirit and a character that is toughened beyond its years. What kid complains about food they get when they are in an orphanage?

While I was talking with him, I glanced over and could not help my excitement upon seeing a child that a few weeks ago I had suspected had died. He was also excited to see me and reached out with both arms; and this from a child who had his hands tied when I first met him many months ago. He is now in isolation and will soon be returned to the group. Apparently, his grandma decided she could not handle him and therefore returned him. How does Lesson #31 fit in this case?

My initial excitement changed to sadness. I am glad he is alive, but I had more hope for him.

Desiree'

sponsored by Uzbekistan and Humanity, Inc
(in partnership with People International - www.GoPeople.org)

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