The beautiful children of Cambodia take claim to a piece of my heart and soul.
Repeated sickness and a growing attachment to Cambodia, its people and the beautiful children at NFO schools and the orphanage prompted me to move on last Monday. I will never forget my time with these beautiful people.
When I reflect upon my time in Cambodia it only brings back smiles. Every Cambodian I came across greeted me with a smile and “Suosday”. I’ve never come across a people who are so very generous and yet equally so poor. Despite not having much, their hearts and homes are always open to “foreigners” who are there to help them.
Having spent a few weeks in neighboring Thailand and Vietnam, I can see the stark difference in development between Cambodia and its neighbors. Could this be a result of the Pol Pot regime or due a conscious choice in lifestyle?
I found that Cambodians generally live a rural lifestyle with simple pleasures and where family values and friendships are of utmost importance.
So my time as a Volunteer in Cambodia ends…
There were many occasions when I questioned my purpose as a volunteer. Was I really helping these beautiful children create a better future for themselves or was I bringing them closer to where our children of the “developed” world are now?
Having met an older orphan going through university and seeing the development in neighboring countries helped answer my questions. The difference is giving people a choice. A choice between a life they know and a life that may give them a better future with more options.
We are so very lucky in our lives in the “developed” world as we have options. Options…and freedom.
I’m not sure if I did much to impact the futures of these children but I certainly took away a lot and can only hope I left equally enough of myself. One thing is for sure…the beautiful children of Cambodia will remain in my heart forever.
Sofia Sheikh 