Day 5 | just-as-i-have-loved

I would have never known about what is happening in Cambodia if I didn’t go on this trip. To be honest, I didn’t know much about Cambodia besides reading the book, and I didn’t do much preparation for it. I wasn’t aware of what was happening in Cambodia right now, and how serious it was, but the reality there surprised me. During the past 14 days, I knew more about Cambodia than I thought. I cannot say that I perfectly understand everything, but at least I know what is going on there.

The first day we went to Wat Phnom, I thought we were just having a day to rest and just taking a walk there. I had this thought until we saw many girls sitting on the bench by themselves in the park. As we talk and observe, I finally realized that those girls were waiting for someone to take them, and from their clothing, we could tell that they are different from others. I never imagine that we will be able to actually see those situation especially in a public area in the day time and I was shocked by the reality of the society. So many girls are sacrificing themselves for their family and I still can’t believe their parents sell them to get money from them. After watching the documentary, it gave a deeper idea of how those girls had a hard time working even if they aren’t willing to. There’s no way we can change their society, but I would love to help them in ways that I can.

Also, I enjoyed working with the kids at Sinath and Rotha’s place and HPC a lot. It was my first time interacting with so many kids at once. The kids were so active and lively that I felt so warm when they come hug me and want me to play with them. It was a lot of preparation for classes but it was worthed.

However, the kids at HPC were a little different. They were also passionate about the games and are friendly, but sometimes they get a little bit violent. The older kids will push away the younger kids, or slap them. Sometimes they aren’t willing to share, which is maybe understandable because most of them live or work on the street and they aren’t really protected under their parents. They have to be strong so that no one will hurt them while they are alone. It was my first time working with street kids and I didn’t know how much could I accept them, but I liked them a lot. What they all had in common was a big smile for you and warm hugs.

We were the ones there to help them, but I think I’ve learned a lot from them too. The way my attitude towards life difficulties, the way I manage money, and the way how to treat others no matter who they are. I am really thankful for this trip which was so much fun and the team members.

--Mayu Yamakawa