Although a work of fiction, this religious thriller has been packed with so many true events that it will stay with you long after you've finished reading it. Even the backdrop of the Vietnam War and what happened to Nickolas and his fellow soldier...
CHAPTER 24: The Children ...... (Your review here)
Similar to other countries in that part of Asia, homeless children present a great challenge to the people of Cambodia. Without any doubt, the Shining LotusOrphanage was a loving shelter—its loyal staff dedicated to giving them as much care as humanly possible. Slowly Maria entered, carrying a basket of hot banana bread tucked neatly inside. The room became very quiet. The boys and girls lifted their heads as soon as they sensed someone had come in.
Who was this beautiful lady? Glancing at the entire room, the most noticeable thing that Maria saw were all the large brown eyes staring back at her.
Indeed, Maria's heart seemed to melt the instant all the children looked up at her. One little girl was not even inside but squatting just outside the classroom door; perhaps not even an orphan but simply one of the children from the neighborhood. When Maria looked at her, again, majestic brown eyes peered at her through the open door.
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photo: Alessandro Vannucci
Placing the basket of bread on a table, Maria walked over to the door where the little girl sat staring—her hands definitely in need of soap and water if she was going to have some bread with the other children.
"Hi, my name is Maria. What's yours?" At the same time, she stretched out both her arms with palms open—but she stopped a good eight inches from the little girl, letting her decide if she wanted to make friends or not— and sure enough, she did.
Like mother and child, the little girl let go of her rocks and held out her arms, fully trusting that Maria would pick her up. Neither of them were disappointed. With her new friend in her arms, Maria walked over to the rest of the children and said hello. The teacher then reached for the basket and proceeded to give everyone a piece of warm bread while Maria looked at the beautiful necklace around her little friend's neck.
