The dreams of an African child… KNOW
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
“But where are you from? How do you live in your country? What do you eat?” and many other questions.
The one who was asking them was a cute little guy, surrounded by his friends. I had stopped at the door of the house and they, laughing and joking, saw me.
We sat on the floor and the questioning of the man who had come from afar began. I was trying not to forget all the questions, also because in the meantime they were adding more questions. They were curious. They wanted to know, to know.
Perhaps it was a dream they had had for a long time. They had not had the chance until then.
But since I was available, they took advantage of it. Smart of them, though, but a little smart of me, too. To every question they asked, I gave the answer. But at the same time, I was also asking them questions. I too was curious about their lives, their problems, their dreams.
Time seemed never to pass. “Let’s pause for a moment,” I said and went to get something to drink and some fruit, with the inevitable candies. They shared them like good brothers.
You could tell they were thirsty. They didn’t stop talking for a moment. They finished everything I had brought. Perhaps they still had some questions.
But the little sister of one of them came running, saying that mother was looking for them. They had to get home quickly. There was work to be done.
Reluctantly, we parted, but giving each other a date for the next time. I will always be there on the doorstep waiting for them. Even if one day they do not find me because I have left, they will know that there will always be someone at that door ready to listen to them.
It is not only the door of the house, but it will become the door of a heart that wants to know and be known.
READ THE OTHER DREAMS
Source
Image
- Photo by father Giovanni Piumatti
- Image digitally created by spazio + spadoni