braids.

5.9.08

To my delight, many of the children at Kyambogo Church whom I had met through the Compassion International program last week came to participate in the “Glory to Glory” conference this past week at the same location. I had the opportunity to volunteer in the Children’s Wing, along with a few other ICY international volunteers.  Throughout the week, we led bible studies, games, songs, and other activities with the children. Thursday, as nervous as I was to speak to a large elementary-aged crowd, I had been asked to deliver a short message. The entire week was so much fun to spend time with the children and get to know each one better.

             On Friday, the closing day, we spent the morning following the scheduled routine. After the songs and prayers had concluded, there seemed to be some free time. While I am not certain how it started, all the children divided among the four ICY American volunteers and began to braid our hair. Laura, Jen, and I sat in lawn chairs scattered throughout the gymnasium, and even Jed’s long hair was fascinating to all the kids. As the students between ages 7 and 12 hovered over us and braided strands of our hair, I smiled and laughed at the scene. Half a dozen children had divided my hair up into variously sized locks, and they announced the names of the different “saloons” each of the ICY volunteers were currently located. The enthusiasm they had to create various styles of thick braids, small braids, many braids, one massive braid, was entertaining to observe. I felt so blessed throughout the week to spend time with the children, and I was excited to see how thrilled and amused they were to style our hair during the final session of the last day.

            I believe that I sometimes do not fully comprehend the significance that the ICY program has on the community by which it is surrounded. While I sat patiently for about 30 minutes, groups of children exchanged smiles and excited chatter about the “Mzungu” hair styles they had created. While I hardly put in any effort to sit in a chair and allow children to display their creativity, it seemed to be the highlight to their entire day. I am continuing to learn how it is the simplest acts that make the most impact. …Braids. Braids in my hair. It seems so silly to think that woven hair can bring so much joy to a child. That day, I left in the late afternoon, waving good-bye to some of my favorite little kids at Kyambogo, and walked down the dirt road with a trendy new hairstyle.