Why?

Are we doing this? It’s not for fun. Maybe it’s because we can. Maybe it’s because we want to. 5 of us were taken into the ghetto. I’ve seen somethings today that made it clear why I’m here. I’ve seen poverty like this before. But I have never experienced such hopelessness. Finding a job. Finding a home. Impossible. Today I’ve seen a house built of mud. I’ve seen a house with an asbestos roof that’s falling down. I’ve seen 9 children living with their parents in a single room. It’s been scary and amazing. But this just blew me away.

We went to the house of Florin. He was in court today. We were warmly welcomed by his family. Having entered the house I was offered the chance to hold a baby. 6 weeks old, little Alexander. He was cute and responded to my words. Here he is.

The adults were miserable and sad, the children were delightful, happy and filled with optimism. Yet Alexander’s family wanted me to take him. His mother wanted me to take him. They didn’t want to take him back. At first I thought they were joking. They weren’t. They asked me to take him to England. They knew it would be better if he went with me. It was hard to find someone to whom I could return him. They all wanted me to take him.

Later I asked Attila, our guide and their pastor about the incident, and he confirmed that they wanted to give me their baby. Hope versus no hope. At least for Alexander.

I gave him back, but that’s the reason why I’m here. To give Alexander a chance. To give him hope. The barn is a start. His home needs building properly. Just look at the sagging roof.

I love that baby. That’s why I’m here.

On the way back I cried. It’s hard not to. I cried for Alexander and how I can’t take him home. That’s why I’m here.