Tuesday, August 31, 2010

Contrasts

Our time in China is quickly coming to an end. One thing that has struck us all is the contrast between those who have and those who don't. We've seen some luxury cars everywhere, such as Cadillacs, Mercedes, Acuras, BMW's...all driving along roads without proper sewerage.
Yesterday was the first day of school for all kids in China. In many ways it seemed similar to the first day of school for kids in the US...parents bringing their kids to school, kids in pressed uniforms, excitement in the air. Then, I thought of the village kids we've met who might not be able to continue with schooling due to family responsibilities...at age 12 and 13. At these tender ages, the young girls might need to drop school and be the wage earners for their families. This is a reality which happens much too often in the poorer villages.
Yesterday I met with a young couple who has a 3.5 year old son with autism. Services for kids with autism are basically non existant. Both parents are doctors in China. They thirst for every opportunity to know more about their son and how to best help him. We had a great discussion about strategies and possible ideas which could be helpful for him.
Much of the time here is a bit of a blur. We've seen so, so much. Experienced and heard such heartache and hope. It's almost time to begin processing what all of it means for the future.

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