Children at the orphanage
Cambodia is a third world country, where people are less fortunate and have a deep history of slavery and war, a time ruled by Pol Pot. You can read more about the killing fields here. The country is predominantly rural and based on agriculture and many people struggle to survive the day to day life.
When i was in Phnom Penh, my parents asked if there was anything i would like to do, and i said visit the less fortunate children living in an orphanage. We organised a tuk tuk, made a quick stop at the local markets where we bought rice and colouring crayons and toys for the children. The tuk tuk driver drove us to ‘the other side’ of the city, driving down streets filled with people living in shacks with vey basic lives; no tv, no internet, no fresh water.
At the orphanage, we had the chance to learn about the children’s and the orphanages background, about where most of the kids have come from and how they live now the orphanage took them in. I felt mixed emotions; these kids were so happy and joyful while some of them were really scared and intimidated by us. We spent the afternoon bonding with the kids, playing games and creating smiles, handing out the toys we bought at the markets. They were so grateful for the little help, entertainment and happiness we brought.
Handing out toys to the kids
It was hard to see such bright and bubbly kids living in an orphanage, with no family. But the orphanage looked after these children as best as they could, and made these few children a new home and family. Such an inspiring afternoon, that hit home and reminded me to be so grateful for the advantages we have living in a first world country.
Its hard to find words to describe the experience, the emotions felt and the inspiration created, visiting an orphanage and helping the less fortunate in any country is an incredible eye-opener for anyone. Even if you don’t have money yourself, one of the best gifts is time; to help out in anyway you can, cook, clean, play, teach.
Kelissa Brockett 