At an Ethiopian church service I looked down to see a 4 year old wide eyed little girl coming to sit next to me. No smile. Those deep dark eyes just watched me. As I put my arm around her I saw the sores on her face. She did not pull away. Her gaze continued for a bit, then she went back to her mom. This room was filled with women and kids who are HIV positive, over 200 of them.
A friend tells of a 15 year old who is working and taking care of his younger brothers and sisters since mom died 4 years ago and dad died 2 years ago, both from AIDS.
I met 2 different women this past week who are adopting AIDS orphans. Each taking brothers and sisters to homes in the US. The kids parents have already died or are dying. The 8 year olds can't speak English but are leaving their Ethiopian homes and culture with new American parents.
Another child, 13 years old, spends a year in fear worrying about getting sick, after taking care of his mom as she died from AIDS. He has tested negative for HIV.
These beautiful children are in the middle of AIDS. They are growing up with it, sick with it, being changed by it, and afraid of getting it.
I am sad, and then angry, and then determined.
Lord, show me how I can help.
JOURNEY INTO AFRICA- This is our story of living and serving in Africa.
2 comments:
AIDS is such a tool of the devil! I'm certain God is preparing you for battle! I'll join you in prayer against the enemy. Love and miss you.
Hey MOM!!! My name is Flajaun Bartlett and I am the Medical Office Instructor for your daughter Nicole. She has blessed us with viewing and sharing her families endeavors. Thank you for allowing me to be a part of your lives. When I say she "ROCKS", I now know where she gets it from!! Continue with the Lords work and may you both be eternally blessed>>
Be safe, have fun, and let us continue to live through you.
Flajaun
Community College Of Denver East
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