I have been talking about how sponsoring a child's education has brought me enormous peace. But what tops that feeling is actually meeting the child in real life!! It has been an year now and somehow I had not been able to take that one step to meet the kid. I did want to see her, talk to her and connect to her. But I am not very good with kids and so I was a bit hesitant. My friend coaxed me into setting up a meet (ultimately he did it himself :P) and got the ball rolling.
I have to say World Vision coordinated the visit very well. A few emails were exchanged and before I knew it, I had an appointment with the child. I was thrilled and excited and nervous. How is she? Will she be pleased to see me? Will we get along well? It felt nothing short of an interview. I prepared myself. The gifts were carefully chosen too. A cute pillow to be her comfort companion. Story books to help her reading. An activity book and colors to nurture her creativity and imagination. And of course chocolates!
The much awaited moment finally arrived. She was wearing a green and pink churidar. She looked on edge too. As soon as she saw me, she gave me a bouquet and welcomed me with a smile. Ah.. It felt magical! I couldn't stop smiling looking at her. Without realizing, I had developed a bond with the child. I felt responsible for her. Within moments we warmed up to each other. Of course, we forced ourselves to make small conversation but it was definitely a start. She had been trained for the visit and she gave well rehearsed answers to our questions. She even sang a song and read a bit for us. Poor kid! My heart went out to her.
As minutes passed by, the comfort level increased and she started talking a bit about her family and friends. She is a very smart kid and I could sense that she is very talkative too albeit a bit shy. She had come with her brothers who vouched for it. I felt very proud of her. She is sharp and with a little help she can go places. I am happy that I am able to provide her that support, which will enable her to spread her wings and fly.
All in all, it was a wonderful experience. One that brought me calm and peace. It justified my existence and made me realize the reason why life is so beautiful. All those long hours at work seemed nothing in front of her smile. Isn't it true?
I have to say World Vision coordinated the visit very well. A few emails were exchanged and before I knew it, I had an appointment with the child. I was thrilled and excited and nervous. How is she? Will she be pleased to see me? Will we get along well? It felt nothing short of an interview. I prepared myself. The gifts were carefully chosen too. A cute pillow to be her comfort companion. Story books to help her reading. An activity book and colors to nurture her creativity and imagination. And of course chocolates!
The much awaited moment finally arrived. She was wearing a green and pink churidar. She looked on edge too. As soon as she saw me, she gave me a bouquet and welcomed me with a smile. Ah.. It felt magical! I couldn't stop smiling looking at her. Without realizing, I had developed a bond with the child. I felt responsible for her. Within moments we warmed up to each other. Of course, we forced ourselves to make small conversation but it was definitely a start. She had been trained for the visit and she gave well rehearsed answers to our questions. She even sang a song and read a bit for us. Poor kid! My heart went out to her.
As minutes passed by, the comfort level increased and she started talking a bit about her family and friends. She is a very smart kid and I could sense that she is very talkative too albeit a bit shy. She had come with her brothers who vouched for it. I felt very proud of her. She is sharp and with a little help she can go places. I am happy that I am able to provide her that support, which will enable her to spread her wings and fly.
All in all, it was a wonderful experience. One that brought me calm and peace. It justified my existence and made me realize the reason why life is so beautiful. All those long hours at work seemed nothing in front of her smile. Isn't it true?
" The heart that gives, gathers. "
- Tao Te Ching
