Kayole Slum: Red Handprints

Red handprints were lined up in a row on one of the pale yellow walls of the Emmanuel Children’s Home in Kayole, Nairobi. Under each palm print that boasted fingers extending to heaven, was written the name of a child and the year, 2006. Curious, I asked, “Why are these handprints here?”

I was told that the church orphan home doesn’t use growth measurement marks on walls or doorposts. Instead, they ask children to stretch up their arms and place their painted hands as high as they can on the wall.

I thought about this for a moment. As a fitting substitute for marking the measure of a child by the top of his or her head, the child’s height was calculated by how far they could reach and leave their own mark. How profound and poetic that is.

These orphans will reach beyond themselves, beyond the limits that the world places upon them.

Today, it is handprints on a wall. Tomorrow, it is communities transformed and legacies left for eternity.

Comments

[Michael Kruc]

Paul, what a neat symbol of them reaching for something greater than their circumstances. These children are very blessed to have someone to care for them. Thank you for these notes from the field. Have a safe trip home.

[Sarah]

I think we don't realize the fullness of rescuing a child. Not only how it changes his/her life right now, but how it will change the future for others, for cultures, for nations, for the world.

[Cheri]

Yes, these orphans will reach beyond the borders to others orphaned and abandoned, and will help to raise them up, who will help to raise up others.

[Faith]

The handprints are more attractive than a line on the wall as well. I love the symbolism of reaching high!