Being well versed with the language of the soul, I was taken aback by the depth of connection felt from boys/ youths of the next generation in overcoming challenges and taking risks in life from such young and vulnerable situations. Truly admirable.
We were first greeted with warmth in hugs and words followed by a guitar and song performance of Lean on Me. I can still see and hear visibly the effort of learning, rehearsing such a powerful song in a language these boys are still acquiring. The words meaningful to all! Tato led his house friends with his newly discovered ability to master a musical instrument in just a few weeks. These boys show courage and support for one another to grow together, bond and become real men in a damaged world.
The raw hurt still within some of their journeys was then witnessed as they broke down in tears of surrender as they dug a bit deeper into their own lives. The boys also poured out their hearts to be comforted by those much younger than them sitting close by. Hands of comfort, shoulders to lean on. Friends surrounding.
These boys are healing, transforming bonding through related experiences and the power to forgive others, learn kindness and heart connection as they move through life.
The outpouring of love greeting us when we arrived can only be witnessed in person. Girls who I see my younger self in are caring, loving and thoughtful even after the hardship of life thrust upon them. The love I felt was as if we had met and known each other many times over. Being the receiver of their warmth and for them to share words of such in return was so heartfilling.
As they sat to hear guidance on kindness, we are all aware of how brutal young society can be on each other. Words can hurt, and over and over we know hurt people hurt people. Healing people, help to heal others! The kindness we give into the lives of others is the most we can all do. These girls have been hurt in many forms and to witness the tears of one house mate share her feelings of hurt to her fellow house mates, shows how cruel others can be. But what I witnessed was her strength to voice that hurt and watch the others listen and some weep too. She showed power in her voice to help inspire her housemates to create unity and kindness. I approached a girl following that as I saw her crying alone. House mum shared she had lost her grandmother. To cry is a process of cleansing and release. Allowing space for transformation and new things to come. As we elevate the bridge over our own journey the water continues to flow.
I reflected on my own journey to get here in life and the prominent river with it's many bridges by the hotel, significantly connected many pathways for all.
The connection between strangers on the same mission was clear and to receive beautiful words to replicate this proved to me we are all in this together no matter our backgrounds, faith, nationality.
I thought of one of my favorite songs as a child as we left Cambodia. Grandma's Hands by Bill Withers.
We can all connect, trust, love and support one another with the kindness and love we deserve.
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