August 2012 Archives

15

on not drinking the water

This is the first time in my life that I have been told, “Don’t drink the water.” As in politely decline when you are offered some poured into your cup. As in no ice in your drinks As in use bottled water when you brush your teeth. As in shower with your mouth closed. I… Read more »

17

married at thirteen.

The first thing I notice is that the English words on her shirt don’t make sense. “Color Goob” it says, like an unwitting jab at the reader of which the wearer is oblivious. Laying over her shirt is a large, stong braid of black wavy hair, falling down from the whisps around her face. The… Read more »

28

meeting my O

{Copyright World Vision 2012, photographer Lindsey Minerva} We sit across from each other exchanging awkward giggles and smiling glances. Odish, her son and my sponsored son is our connecting link, and such a darling one at that. Through a translator I learn that Odish didn’t like taking a pacifier, that he throws his food on… Read more »

4

i have a thing for babies

{copyright World Vision, photographer Matthew Paul Turner} In any crowd, my eyes find them. I flirt and I peek-a-boo behind their mother, they hide their faces in her neck, giggling. It is in my genetic makeup, I’m sure of it. The cheeks, the large eyes, the nubbin chins, the pursed lips, the uncreased skin, the chubby… Read more »