Some say you can count your friends on one hand. You know a friend the moment you meet them. Personally I have always been a little cautious with new people in my life.
Not Baba Shretha, she says we were meant to meet, and become friends, the gods have willed it this way.
On our first morning in Kathmandu, the boys and I keenly explored the outskirts of Thamel near where we are staying.
After some small talk Baba and I discussed the issues of importance in her beloved Nepal.
She is a simple shop worker; she works from morning till evening when it is closing time. She has no time off. She's happy to have a job.
It was during our chat that she told me the gods had willed us to meet.
We had toys, she had sick kids.
She began organising for us to meet with her friend Dr. Rupa Shaham, a doctor in a children's' cancer hospital. The children come from poor families in rural areas. They have nothing. Not even their health.
I have had the heart breaking decision, as to where the toys we have, should go. We are leaving to work in an orphanage on Wednesday. It is only small with 16 children ranging in age from 5-14. I chose this orphanage for many reasons. I chose this orphanage, not with my heart, but with my head.
Sadly I have been faced with the decision of who is more deserving of the toys we have with us.
Do we give them to the 40 poor children suffering from cancer or the 16 orphans that are about to become part of our lives for the next 3-4 weeks? I have agonised over this decision for days.
We have come to the embarrassing conclusion that we just don't have enough to give to the sick children and so the orphans will receive our toys. I know it sounds harsh and I feel so ashamed. I have cried many times over this decision.
How do I tell my new friend Baba Shretha, who has placed so much faith in my ability to help make some sick children feel better?
Why have the gods willed it this way?
x Lisa (inadequate Mum)
It sounds like the beginning of a life long adventure Lisa. You might not get to do it this time - but you will be back!
ReplyDeletePJ boys had a different show and tell today as I showed them your blog and we looked at all the pics! Wish you could have heard the comments on Mrs Corbett eating worms! Yeuch! You are all on an amazing trip, one that will continue throughout your lives! Boys, I love your ideas and you look as if you are having a great time! You are all amazing!
ReplyDeleteForgot to say 'Inadequate mum' - NOT NOT NOT! Narelle and I say that you are one incredible mum! Cody and Taiga - You must be the luckiest boys out there and Steve- Do you know how very lucky you are? Sent the link to the staff at TSS and so many were excited to see what you are up to and say how lucky you all are having such a wonderful experience!
ReplyDeleteLisa, just believe that the decision you made was the correct one. Maybe Steve can bring more toys over for the hospital. You are doing a wonderful job and enjoying new experiences with the boys. We are so proud of you. Hello Cody and Taiga, it is great to see photos of you and to share your experiences. I have been brushing Barney and he loves it.
ReplyDeleteevery single decision made means a bunch of decisions to contra; this is the way of life. An hr spent at work is hr not spent with family. Money spent on a item means money not spent on another item. time and money are limited and every day we must decide how to use both. We hope with wisdom. Your doing great
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