Liberian Pinning

We were invited last weekend to the closing ceremony for the school at one of the orphanages we’ve been working with. We’ve been around Africa long enough to know that when the invitation says we’re being honored, it usually includes bright colorful one-size-fits-all clothing, speeches, songs, dancing, and food.

This weekend was no exception. Being “pinned” was a new experience, though. After being robed in our new clothes, we were informed that the pinning would occur. Anyone who wanted to honor or thank us was to bring flowers, ribbons, or candy to pin on us. I must confess, I was a little worried about 78 kids running at me with stickpins. I was only stuck once though. I was impressed at how careful they were.

It was humbling to have so many individuals come up and thank us for what we had done. At times it seems like so little. But as I looked around, I saw happy, healthy kids. I couldn’t help but think of how far they’ve come. How much untapped potential exists for so many other Liberian children?