A Layne Post
Her name means ‘Give Light’. For months this little eight year old was shy and introverted. I would try to talk with her, compliment her painted toes and colorful skirts, bring Anaya by her side, etc. but I could not get much of a response. I remember thinking how sad she looked and feeling frustrated I could not break through the wall she had surrounded herself with. She seemed ashamed of the large tumor protruding from her eye, even though she was, and is, surrounded by people in the same situation. Still I tried; reminding her that I thought she was beautiful.
A couple weeks ago something changed. I do not know why, but she chose to open up to me. She didn’t have to; they never do, yet she chose, and I consider myself the privileged one. She was receiving treatment when I arrived at her bedside, and her hand reached out. My heart leapt as I grabbed it. The time passed while I sat in her bed, rubbed her arms and legs and traced her little hands. She would tickle me, slap my hands and giggle as I responded. Every now and then she would rest her head in my cupped hand, and I would take the opportunity to kiss her precious head. When it was time to go, she begged for me to stay. That is the hardest part. I promised my return and gave a few more kisses.
Now, every time I arrive, her face ‘gives light’. Her tumor is growing; however, she is more beautiful than ever, this precious eight year old girl. I do not know what the future holds for her. If I relied solely on my experiences, it does not look good. I have already cried many tears for her suffering. May the Lord be merciful.
Thank you for your support, which allows me to sit with an eight year old girl suffering in a hospital bed, to try somehow to be the touch of our heavenly Father. Thank you for the impact you are making here in Maputo, Mozambique.
His love always wins.
Such a sweet girl. So thankful that u are loving her as He would. Children are so precious in his sight. Thank you for choosing to live your life for others. You can’t possibly know how many times when I read your blog it’s exactly what I needed at that moment. Most of those moments being the ones where I am sitting here feeling blah and bummed and what for? Nothing in comparison to these sweet people. Jesus don’t stop trying to changing me. I desperately need change and I desperately need Him. Love you guys!!
I will pray for this little one, enjoy every moment you get with her. Thank YOU for being willing to care. Love you guys.
wow. i just realized something. thank you for your life. :: im going to go blog now::
I immediatley invisioned her and her red bandana. I have shared so many pictures of all the group at the hospital, and shared about her, her eye, and her being distant. I praise God for this opportunity He has afforded you Buck to step into the gap and show her the love of our Savior, Jesus. May God continue to open doors, supply needs, and give you strength. Love, Daddy~
Yes, Layne I thank God for using you to be His hands and feet in that hospital for such a time as this…especially for being His hands to touch His little ones. I love you Layne for being there and for not giving up ;)
Mama took the words from my heart… “I thank God for using you to be His hands and feet in that hospital “.
We love her too, Layne. We pray for her. We thank God for opening her heart to you. In doing so, she has opened her heart to the Father of Lights, from whom her name is derived. May He pour out His grace and mercy on her, and on her daddy who sits with her.
She is so precious! I am so glad you are there to love her.