The dreams of an African child… Our works of mercy
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
When you see an African child sleeping blissfully in his mom’s arms, it makes you wonder if he is also dreaming.
Whether he is dreaming in black or white or in color.
I think he too, in his small way, dreams big, like everyone else.
The first dream is to be loved and pampered by his mother when he asks her for food. Then, to feel good in his big family.
When he begins to toddle, the dreams will also begin to walk along with him.
He will begin to meet other people, make new friends, play and study together with them.
Then, he will wonder what the future holds for him.
He will begin to ask everyone for an answer, which he will not always like. But he will continue to think that he, too, is entitled to a future.
He will understand, in time, that his dreams are similar to those of others, but that he will put more effort into them….
And we will understand that we have to put in our own as well….
That his dreams can become reality if we are able to keep our eyes open to the world and generate mercy.