Graduation

Last week was a bit of a rough week for me (i know...not a surprise). anyway, last wednesday i arrived at one of the Sari Bari units at the end of the lunch hour - and laid down near some of the ladies and started joking around. one of the guys who works for us was joking around with the ladies and quickly included me in the fun. he was saying all sorts of funny insults (like, your eyes are the color of a goat, or your skin looks like a pig) then, he asked what i ate that day, and i told him a sandwich (a grilled cheese). he told me he would make me a sandwich that i'd never eat again. then he told me what he'd put on the sandwich. tomato, cilantro, cucumber, goat eyes, etc. it was this moment of laughter, and inclusion. another moment when i can see how i'm making process in being able to communicate in this language that still feels foreign and stressful.

then - then it just got better. i went upstairs to where the training ladies sit, and they grabbed me and made me sit down next to them. and then with such pride and joy told me that in one week they would have their graduation from Sari Bari training. they said there was going to be a big party for them. we were going to eat lunch, and they were going to graduate. They said i had to come (i will) and that i should wear a sari (i won't).

it was so beautiful. the pride they felt. the sense of accomplishment that they were going to graduate. this is the first graduation that i'll be at for ladies that i've also been a part of their training. to see the small steps they're taking forward. to see their sewing get better and better. so be a part of the learning process with them (and the joy and energy they have in wanting to learn.) to watch, and affirm when they write their name. the pride they feel in that accomplishment. small steps - towards believing the truth of their value and beauty. small steps towards restoration. hope, taking root.

man, its the sort of thing that will get you out of bed in the morning!