Επιμέλεια: Εύα Πετροπούλου Λιανού
It was a special day at the orphanage—Children’s Day. The staff and caretakers were excited to make the children feel loved and cherished. Mrs. Sonia, the kind-hearted teacher who had been with the orphanage for years, was the first to suggest throwing a celebration. She knew how important it was for the children, many of whom had lost so much, to feel joy and belonging on such a day.
The preparations began early. Bright balloons and colorful streamers were hung around the playroom, and the delicious smell of baked treats filled the air. Mrs. Sonia and the other staff members had spent weeks collecting toys and games for the children, ensuring there was something for everyone. The children’s excitement grew as they watched the decorations go up, their eyes sparkling with anticipation.
But among the giggles and smiles, there was one child who sat quietly in the corner, his gaze distant and his small hands clutching the edges of his chair. His name was Adam, a shy boy who had only arrived at the orphanage a few days earlier. Unlike the other children, who had been at the orphanage long enough to feel at home, Adam still felt lost. The unfamiliar faces, the new surroundings—it was overwhelming for him.
As the party began, the children eagerly ran towards the tables filled with toys, games, and treats. Laughter filled the room, but Adam remained in his corner, feeling out of place. Mrs. Sonia noticed him, her heart aching for the little boy. She knew it wasn’t easy for him, having just arrived in a strange new place without the comfort of family.
Gently, Mrs. Sonia approached Adam, kneeling down beside him. “Adam,” she said softly, “would you like to come and join the others? We have some new toys, and I think you might like them.”
Adam shook his head, his eyes downcast.
Mrs. Sonia placed a comforting hand on his shoulder. “I know it’s hard,” she said, her voice filled with warmth. “But you’re safe here, and we all care about you. You don’t have to play right away, but would you like to walk with me around the room? Maybe just watch for a little while?”
Adam hesitated but nodded slowly. Mrs. Sonia stood up and held out her hand, and after a moment, Adam took it. Together, they walked around the playroom, watching the other children laugh and play. Gradually, Adam’s grip on Mrs. Sonia’s hand loosened, and a faint smile began to tug at the corners of his mouth.
After a while, a group of children invited Adam to join their game of building blocks. Mrs. Sonia gave him a reassuring nod, and with a deep breath, Adam slowly walked over to them. At first, he was shy, but as the game went on, he began to enjoy himself. The other children welcomed him warmly, and soon, Adam’s laughter blended with theirs.
By the end of the day, Adam was running around with the other children, his earlier sadness forgotten. Mrs. Sonia watched from a distance, her heart swelling with pride. The orphanage had done its job—not just in providing a home, but in creating a place where every child, even those like Adam, could feel safe, loved, and happy.
That night, as Adam went to bed, he felt something he hadn’t felt in a long time—hope. For the first time, the orphanage didn’t feel like a strange place. It felt like home.
© TAGHRID BOU MERHI – LEBANON – BRAZIL
