Every Saturday, from 11AM to 6PM, depending on the weather, we go to club Villa Maristas with the kids of the children’s home Brazos Abiertos.
Some years ago, when I first met Nydia Soto, I asked her about her most urgent needs. She told me the kids were fine. In Brazos Abiertos they make a great effort to meet their basic needs, they have clothes, food, and a roof over their heads. However, at that time, there was something missing, something important. It was very difficult for them to organize recreational activities on weekends.
The truth is that children are children, and even though this may sound obvious, as adults sometimes we tend to forget the inescapable truth. Often, a weekend outdoors, going on a picnic or walking in the park is more precious to them than getting new shoes or a brand new uniform.
Life is made up of these precious moments. These are the things that really matter to them. Of course material things are necessary and useful. Only when basic needs are satisfied can we pay attention to the other aspects of life. But meeting their needs is not enough if we cannot bring meaning to their lives through these prized moments Nydia wanted for her children.
At Villa Maristas we just spend the day together, we go to the swings, we play football, we chat while we challenge each other playing cards… we just share our time with people that everyday become more and more important for us.
I’d never miss my Saturday appointment with Twity, Maxi, Cholito or Tuti –just to name a few– not for the most important or serious commitment.
This activity is open for everyone to join in. You only need to be in the mood for playing and be ready to receive the unconditional love of these kids.
