The Children of Cambodia

As we thought about what to write for our post today we thought of the reports we have been working on, which are not very interesting to tell about. We have talked about the crazy traffic and the rain. We have mentioned more than once about the missionaries here.

One of the subjects we have not talked much about is the children. As we look around this is a very young society. 65-70% of the population in Cambodia is under the age of 30. You really don't have to look far to see the beautiful children. Most of them have a very simple life. They are taught at a young age to give the Sampeah and bow, showing respect to others.

Because the main form of transportation is by moto, you see families pile on together. It is sometimes hard to see the tiny children standing between people, or just holding on behind. We often see as many as five or six riding on one moto.

One thing we will never get used to is the beggars, most often young children. The five year olds who bring an infant with them into traffic to knock on car windows and ask for money. It's no wonder the very young children are not afraid of traffic. They were out in the streets from the time they were born.

As we look at these little ones we see the future of the nation. We hope and pray that they will have the wisdom to make the changes that will give greater hope for the next generation.

Even amidst the poverty we look into the eyes of the children and see a bright future. Among those in our pictures are some who call us "Look Taa and Look Yiay" (Grandpa and Grandma). They are happy to see Elder and Sister and run to greet us when they do. Their smiles for us are priceless! If for no other reason, we are happy to be in Cambodia for the children!