While Dan is busy working 2 phones and a notebook computer, I'm left with time to observe people around me. The Mapang Missionary guest house is rich with stories that rival any TV soap.
I've gotten to know a couple (about our age) who are calm, solid, gentle folk, originally from Arkansas. They are seasoned missionaries that have been in difficult situations all over the world. They came here to be with their pregnant daughter and son-in-law, awaiting the arrival of their first grandbaby. (The daughter is married to a PNGer, but they met in another country. Fascinating.) About 3 days ago she delivered a baby boy named Trevor Lawrence. However, Trevor managed to swallow amniotic fluid which got into his lungs and he was on oxygen and antibiotics. Yesterday, though, he was free from all his tubes, and they hope to bring him home. I've been a prayer supporter all through this process.
To add to this drama, the daughter and husband brought with them to the guesthouse the husband's cousin's little boy, Bradley, whom they've been caring for. Bradley was neglected in the village and thought to be mute. He's six, and only began talking about 6 months ago.
I wish you were here, Julie Morris, because I bet you'd find his case fascinating. This little guy definitely does not have an inside voice. He yells everything... exuberantly! ("Good morning!" or "Hi!") He doesn't know much English, so repeats the same phrase over and over. He seems unnaturally animated and seems driven for people's attention. My guess is that there's a little more going on here than the previous neglect. Without warning, he may hit or bite or pinch...but not out of malice. I think he just wants attention. (He reminds me of Donnie in "The Wild Thornberries" cartoon.)
Because the daughter and her husband have to travel to the hospital every 3 hours to feed the newborn, the new grandparents are caring for Bradley. What a challenge: to try to keep him in their room most of the time and entertained and to try and not disturb the other guests. I must say, they are doing a wonderful job, and are maintaining their calm, and their patience.
I hope if the baby comes out of the hospital today that I'll be able to see him!
Wow, that is interesting. Has Bradley had his hearing checked? Not that I'm an expert, but it makes sense that neglect in early childhood could lead to difficulties in sensory processing. Maybe his family would be interested in the book I automatically want to recommend to everybody. ;) (http://www.bookdepository.com/The-Out-of-Sync-Child-Carol-Stock-Kranowitz/9780399531651?ref=grid-view)
ReplyDeleteI think I'd like to read that one!
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