Although I have only been here a short time, my heart has grown immensly for the people here in Iraq. I have had many conversations with many different people about many different things. I have heard what is on their minds and some of their hearts. Today we were able to celebrate Cheryl's birthday with some of our K'rdish friends. It was decided amongst the women that we would just simply "pamper" her for the day. This day began with making sure that she did not do any of the work she normally does to serve us in the house. I made breakfast and had items prepared for lunch. The guys did some cleaning and the rest of the house pitched in to clean dishes and help prepare the main lunch meal. Following the meal it was set that we would all head our separate ways (but end up in the same place as a surprise). We managed to mostly surprise Cheryl with manicures, pedicures, and massages for her and the rest of us.
Our "spa" supplies
We were privileged to have three other women join us for this mini-party. What we were able to offer them was simply care and compassion through service. We all took our places to give them manicures and pedicures. In this region, feet are considered to be disgraceful, and these women were shocked beyond belief that we, Americans, would sit on the ground and wash their feet for them. One even commented on the "atmosphere" that we created, but none of us was willing to accept creating the atmosphere. It was He that gave each of us a servant's heart for these women. It was an amazing afternoon to be able to sit and serve by simply "pampering" others.
Kirsten's dining room transformed into a "spa"
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