Recently I had a chance to go out to one of the orphanages 2-hours away for a visit. On my way I stopped to pickup a woman who needed a ride. Now in America most people would never think about picking someone up on the road but here it is a relatively common occurrence. The Kazakh woman was 60 years old, had two daughters and an estranged son. She was coming from a funeral and needed to get to a village about 30 min. down the road. In those moments together I learned about her family and her hopes for her children. I learned that her husband died a few years ago and that she has taken in a young woman who doesn't have any relatives to help her. And of course I was encouraged by her surprise of an American speaking Kazakh and her heart that seemed kind and compassionate. My life was blessed by the few minutes we spent together.
Upon arriving at the orphanage I was greeted by Yulia who ran up to the car with outstretched arms. She also showed me where she put my name in chalk at the entranceway so I would see it when I drove in. She and I have been corresponding for the last year and it is good to see her hopeful for a better life. Her's is a life that has been transforming over the years. When delegations first started coming to Kazakhstan she was one of those kids who stood off at a distance, never smiled and was often moody. Through consistency, encouragement and love she has been learning to trust others and is trying to make some positive changes. She certainly smiles more often! What a blessing to see a difference in a life...oh to "care for the orphans and the widows in their distress..." ~ it is my life which is transformed through such special moments.
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