It was Papama’s 14th birthday. She is attending Mondeor Eco School (Private school in our area) on a scholarship from my home church in Canada. During the first two terms, she often came and said, “I hate lunch time, because I don’t have anything to eat.” and “I don’t have friends. They act like I am not there.” Helen and I decided not to intervene too deeply, because she is the only one who can utilize and build on her unique opportunity and situation. For the next four years or so of her schooling, the cultural conflict will be there and the economic differences will not go away either. Even if we tried, it will not be any sustainable solution. We will only help us to feel better about things we do for her. We have been waiting for her to open up and feel comfortable with us while she is dealing with the problems. Gratefully, she seems like smiling and talking about her schools friends more than before. We just took her to a dinner for her birthday and she said, “It was the best birthday ever!”
hey happy birthday Papama!
I’m glad you’re doing well in school. I know school isn’t so easy. I remember how small and insignificant I felt when I first entered high school. but dont worry too much. over time, you’ll learn to find your place within the school and even more, you’ll find your longest lasting friends in high school just like me.
keep up the great work. I know you can do it.
I believe in you