The Faces

Lauren and I have been spending our days photographing the children at Pfunanane who have sponsors around the world, but mostly in the states. These photos will be used here at the school for advertising, newsletters, shameless hanging and framing, and then they will also be mailed to those who have chosen to sponsor the kids. I thought I’d throw up some that I’ve taken thus far. I’m finally feeling settled and the children are getting used to our presence around the school… Lauren and I are both hoping this means the opportunity for some more candid photos will increase as time goes on. We’ve had to be incredibly sneaky up until this point because the kids simply love to strike up a pose whenever a camera is aimed anywhere near them.

My patience is being tested like never before as I am really unaccustomed to children around me ALL the time. Not to mention the children here have no concept of personal space, though I’ve been told that Americans are known for their exceedingly large “bubbles.” So maybe this is more about me and less about them, I’ll be making it a point to learn to accept the love of these kids, even if it is in their touchy feely language.

I can’t even describe…

The First Week in South Africa

Physically, Mentally, Relationally, Spiritually, I feel a bit uncomfortable. I hope those who may stumble accross this writing know that when I convey these discomforts it is not with dismay, but rather, gladness.  You see, I’ve struggled with the fact that I live in luxury and ease so much that it has become an integrated part of my being; an afterthought. I was spit out into a world of provision and though I know that I had no say in it, have still managed to breed in myself a bit of guilt about it all. I have had to ask myself if this reaction to my good fortune is a logical one, something worth dwelling on, and I can say now beyond a shadow of a doubt that yes, it is.

(Self-examination is a risky endeavor if you have not got your head placed square between your shoulders. I’ve yet to measure if mine is where it should be but I figure I’ll give it a go and hope for the best).

This trip, although still very young, has caused me to unveil the root of my burden: the misconception of comfort and joy within myself, and why there need not be one without the other.

I’m still sorting it out, really. And I’m tired.

Know that I’ll be writing in a more light-hearted nature as I have time and hopefully throwing some photos up! Just had to admit to myself and others for the time being that my world is being tossed all around and I have every intention of landing upright.

Such a beautiful place, South Africa!