The dreams of an African child… AFFECTION
What does an African child dream about?
We will find out in this new column, by Xaverian missionary Father Oliviero Ferro
And when we understand that dreams (but not rights and possibilities) are the same as those of our children, it will be time to wake up and perform works of mercy.
Because through them, an African child (and others) will be able to live in the joy of being able to dream of something that can become possible
“Mom, I’m here too.”
I think it has to be one of the first phrases a baby unconsciously says when he or she is about to be born.
Seeing African mothers always busy, even when they have to bring a baby into the world, I really think it is necessary for them to hear these words.
One day, I was near the dispensary (small hospital) of our parish in Congo DR.
I could see that so many people were coming to get treatment.
And of course there was no shortage of mothers, especially those who had to deliver their child.
They all came sweating from working in the fields. They were accompanied by their oldest daughter, who was holding her younger brother.
They carried in their right hand a bin of water that would be used for the afterbirth.
They were greeted with respect and friendship by the sisters and nurses.
They would go on to the delivery room and…after a few hours they would come out in the company of a beautiful baby boy, still a little white, but who would turn beautiful black.
And then, after some rest, off again to work in the fields.
Back home, they would wait for the fruits of their labor.
There was no time for gentle exercise, the week of rest.
In the evening, after all the housework, they would have some quiet time to start feeding the newest addition.
And after a few weeks, officially introduce him to the village.
It would be a day of celebration.
But what that beautiful African child is asking for (and now his first dream) is to feel loved, part of a family. In short, to feel like someone who existed and wanted to grow up.
African mothers, like all mothers, have their own way of letting you know they love you. Just look into their eyes, see how joyfully they cradle their child and nurture him. And from there you understand everything.
You understand that you are the fruit of their love and that they will never forget you.
Source
Image
- Slide by Fr. Oliviero Ferro
- Image digitally created by spazio + spadoni