Moving In!!!

                 Last night was the first night the sixteen girls slept in their room. The very thought of their wide eyes and precious giggles as they climbed into their beds puts a smile to my face and tears to my eyes. After the best sleep in their lives, the girls were extra hyper and extremely happy when we drove up in the tu tuks this morning.

                Today, we painted the house a gorgeous blue and also helped the girls move their cubbies into their room. Each girl either has her own cubby or shares one with her sister. The cubbies consist of clothing, school supplies, and toys. The movement of the cubbies meant a lot to the girls, making the room their own and adding a sense of character to it.

               It was very eye opening to witness the girls moving their cubbies into the room. I thought the girls would chose to throw away old backpacks and old, torn up notebooks. But, they refused to let any of their possessions go. I also thought that they would ask for new cubbies that match their new room, but the idea of replacing their beloved cubbies never crossed their minds. Their whole lives are placed into these cubbies; every object an individual owns has a purpose, has a story, and has a memory. This was an impeccable realization and amazing breaking point for me. I understood that they felt so blessed to have this new, incredible house and took pride in bringing their memories and possessions into it.

                 The simplicity and appreciation that comes with the lifestyles of those living in developing countries is breath taking. Our perception and views vary immensely from those in Cambodia. Our thought process has always been to buy more and replace the old, but their thought process is much different. They value the smaller, more meaningful things that are so priceless and have been showered with their loving and innocent hearts.

                With two more days left with these kids, I find it very important to give it my all. I have earned a sense of trust with the kids and have had the honor to become a sister among them. Their lives are so challenging and have been filled with heartbreak, but they are still so full of life. I love them with my whole heart and continue to grow with love for each individual at the orphanage.