How many of you readers think Emma is having fun in the photo? She's outside, playing in the water, has a smile on her face...what more could one little 3-year old ask?
Have you thought about your answer?
Now, look in the background of the photo...what do you see?
Here's a closer look at a similar photo to help you out.
Can you count how many people are carrying a camera? Wow.
Emma is actually running away from these people and is not happy that they are all staring at her and taking her picture.
Now, we know we are not the only foreign family in the world who has experiences like this on a daily basis, especially little kids. There's nothing special about us! But for some reason, the white skin poses a dilemma. What kid wouldn't like a little attention from some strangers? Well, at times, Emma.
So how do we love the people we live around in Asia and still honor and respect our little one's desire to just play and be a normal kid? We can't shoo away the onlookers...although at times we want to. We can only help Emma understand as much as she can at her age her "dilemma". We often say, "just play and have fun, they just like to watch you be cute and run around." Or "they like to take photos just like you do, Emma." But sometimes we get one or two people who just can't quite get the hint that she just wants to play and not pose for a photo, and we have to say "no." We also tell Emma that she can always say "no" if she wants and if they don't comply with her wishes, Mommy or Daddy step in to help.
Olivia, on the other hand, being so little, is very happy to smile for photos, endure the pinches on her cheeks, and laugh at those who make funny faces at her.
On a positive note, sometimes the attraction to these sweet kids can serve as a bridge to build new relationships or share with them the love of God. Pray we have the discernment and patience through each strange situation to see the opportunities.
Blessings from the B fam.
