babies, babies, and more babies!

Who can resist that smile?

One of the gifts provided by "For the Family," the Christian organization that is hosting us, is their compassion and care for babies-at-risk in the camps. So far, every day has included visits to mothers and babies who are facing challenges.

My Syrian refugee guides, Halla and Kifah, respectfully enter each dwelling with a kind hello and a gentle spirit. The mothers light up when they see them and graciously accept a bag of diapers and baby supplies. I am always introduced as a volunteer from "Amerikeya."

Praying for surgery

The little ones I have seen have  a variety of problems. One baby with Down Syndrome has heart defects that must be surgically repaired for her to have any chance at survival. One toddler has club feet. Another has an hemangioma at the base of the skull. Others suffer from heat rash and skin problems. Another has trouble breast feeding. But it is not just the babies who suffer. I have seen children who are unable to stand, some with genetic diseases, and many more disengaged from conversation with the vacant stare of traumatized memories.

Kifah with one of the babies

Halla and Kifah lovingly take each baby into their arms, engaging them, cuddling them, cooing to them. They take out their phones and take a photo to document their progress.  This helps the pediatrician, likely my friend Milad, a refugee himself, recognize the children when the doors of the make-shift clinic open during the week. 

An interview follows with the mother and, more often than not, other women in the camp community. Even without understanding the language, it is clear that they all have strong opinions on what is the best treatment approach. Notes are taken, stories shared, and prayers offered. I have been humbled when asked to pray not only for the baby but for immediate relief for the family from their suffering and for a hope for a better future.

a mother and her child

I love the simple but powerful connections with these mothers. I too have held and fretted over my own babies when they were sick. I am now a grandma who offers unconditional love to my beloved grandson. No matter our culture, class or circumstances, the love that mothers have for their children transcends any differences. The prophet Isaiah knows the power of this love and uses it to describe God's love and care for us. 

"As a mother comforts her child,so I will comfort you." Isaiah 66:13.

When the dark stories of suffering overwhelm me, I look for light wherever it presents itself. For the past few days, it has come, in part, through the deep and wide circle of mother love.

I love the spark in this little one.
Born in Lebanon as a political refugee from Egypt, she will be given no papers or birth certificate.
She is stateless which impacts her ability to leave the country with her parents.  
But even without identity papers, Miriam Noor is God's beloved!