Monday, July 26, 2010

Foot washing in the Congo

On one of our afternoons, Mary Ellen, Ashley and I had the joy and privilege of bringing body cleansers, lotions, nail polish and makeup to the post op wards at HEAL Africa. At first, when we explain that we'd like to wash their feet, many of them hesitate, not quite sure we can be trusted. But once they witness their friends getting the washing, they prop up in bed and hold their feet out to be next. Very cute. It's such a wonderful experience, tenderly washing tired feet. Nothing like a church foot washing service that's quite sterile, where pedicures are had by many before the service. No pedicures in this group! The intimacy of massaging their feet, calves, hands and arms with lovely lotions is such a wonderful opportunity to experience the bond of love and sisterhood. And then the fun begins: eye makeup and lipstick with mirrors for them to see their beauty. Shy laughter, giggles all around. God is fun!!!
-Charlotte Martinez

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