I realize that there is a rule of thumb, that you can't have a second chance at a first impression, however, as the co-author and co-creator of this blog, I feel I have the right to make up my own rules. I fear I may have given the absolute wrong impression of The Nazareth Home for God's Children, and I would like to clarify myself.
Sister Stan and the workers at The Nazareth Home for God's Children are loving, caring people who are saving lives even as I write this and you read it. Sister Stan is full of compassion and heart-wrenching devotion to these beautiful gifts from God. There is no abuse or maltreatment of children at the orphanage. I am sorry if I gave that impression.
Each culture has it's own identity and way of life that can often be completely different than one's own, shocking even in it's diversity. The Ghanan people have their own way of doing many things different from mine, including disciplining children. It is so different from my own that I didn't... don't really know how to proceed in helping the children to behave. It can be frustrating blending cultures, understandably, and hence my blog from yesterday.
I know I was in Ghana in January, at the old home, but then I was a guest, now I am a worker and it is a completely different experience. I am being entrenched in all things Ghana and orphanage... it's a lot to take in in just a few days time. We are involved in each aspect of daily life here and it is fun and exciting, sad and scary, heart-breaking and joyful... a complete mishmash of emotion!!!
I am confident in the days and weeks ahead, Mary Clare and I will find our groove. We may not use the Ghanan approach to disciplining, but we will be able to help these children I am quite sure. Sister Stan says that these are not "regular" children. She is always reminding me that the children here have mental instabilities, physical handicaps, developmental delays and medical issues. They need security and stability. They need all the love and patience you can give, and then more. I am glad she is always reminding me, I need it!
This wonderful woman has dealt with one disappointment after another, yet she keeps pushing on for her children. She sees each one as a child of God. I need to follow her example and find the Child Jesus in the heart of each of these children, then act accordingly. A tough job... it may take me a year to tackle that one!! But with God's help and Sister Stan's witness, I just may do it!
Please continue to pray for Mary Clare and me!! We will pray for you!!! xo
