Guayaquil, Equador
With trepidation we parked our motorcycles outside the orphanage and waded through the sea of children accumulating around our bikes. Picturing cramped rooms full of lonely children our expectations drifted towards the somber. But all reluctance quickly melted away when each of the 24 girls introduced their name, age and favorite activity.
Full of smiles and hope, nearly all excitedly listed dancing as their first choice. Which was quickly followed by requests for us to sing a song. Hmmm, you first I insisted in Spanish, which was quickly followed by a rousing rendition of "we are the children".
Like anyone, I've always wanted to know what it felt like to be a rock star. Receiving a tour of the orphanage I had to wonder no more, you'd think the Backstreet Boys themselves had showed up for a visit. Requests for our autographs were made, every girl whether 6 or 18 year olds wanting our names scribbled in their diaries. Pulling out our cameras was greeted with an equally wild response.
Though we only had an afternoon to spend with the kids, the experience left a powerful effect on both of us. Prior to our visit working with orphans would have been an unlikely choice for my future volunteering plans. Realizing how profound effect a few hours can have on their lives the heart becomes much more willing. For the most part these girls have no male influence in their lives, just the abusive fathers that many came from. The foreigners studying at the local university who occasionally volunteer here provide the only balance to their world.
Stumbling through broken Spanish, inquiring about their classes I also realized that finely tuned social work skills are unnecessary. You don't even have to "be good with children". These girls were so desperate for attention and role models that such efforts would be met with wide open arms. Simply walking down the street to your local Big Brothers or Sisters office is the toughest part you'll have to overcome. Once that six year old gazes up like the moon itself was hung by you, all the inspiration you need will come welling up from inside.
As expected the quickest smile came from the most heartbreaking story. Sitting down with the director we learned the young girl had lost her hearing through repeated blows from her father, and was rescued minutes before worse atrocities could take place. Amazing because whenever you glanced in her direction she always responded with a heart wrenching smile. A smile that reaffirmed once again the incredible resilience of the human spirit.
Suiting up for the continuation of our ride South, Steve and I pondered the possibility of bringin the group of girls up to the outdoor center we visited a few days before. Who could refuse the chance to take a group of orphans for a weekend of hiking, rappelling and biking. Combining such an excursion with a trip to El Refugio would be a life changing experience. More on that later.
-JM