Throwback to my first visit to orphanage home

Scrolling through my gallery today, I came across a picture that brought back memories. It has been three years since we visited the orphanage home, yet that day still feels fresh in my mind. The visit was organized under the NGO created by one of my sisters in school. I remember how excited she was when she told us about her intention to start something meaningful, something that would touch lives. We were all so proud of her and immediately gave her our full support. When she announced that our first outreach would be to an orphanage home in Ibadan, I knew I had to be part of it.

That visit was not just another event; it was the first official outing of her NGO, and it will forever remain part of its history. I was still in school at the time, and we had to travel down from my campus to Ibadan. We set out early in the morning, full of joy and energy. Everyone was excited and curious about what awaited us. The road trip was fun we laughed, sang, and talked about what we would do when we arrived and what we will talked about though the sister is already prepared but she still want us to add to it. Even though it was an early journey, the excitement made the trip seem shorter.

We had already informed the orphanage about our coming, so when we got there, they were expecting us. The coordinator came out to welcome us warmly and later called the children together. Seeing them running out, full of smiles and laughter, melted my heart. They were so happy to see us, and that joy alone made the long journey worth it.

We spoke to them, encouraged them, and reminded them that they were not forgotten. After that, we shared gifts food items, clothes, books, and other little things that we could afford. The happiness on their faces was priceless. That was my first time ever visiting an orphanage home, and the experience changed something inside me. I felt both happy and emotional. Happy because the children were full of life, well taken care of, and cheerful despite everything they had been through. Emotional because I couldn’t help but imagine how it must feel to grow up without parents.

Some of the children were very young, while others were already teenagers. They related with one another like one big family, and the caregivers treated them with so much love and patience. I took a deep breath as I watched them play and laugh it reminded me of how we often take family for granted. The people managing the home are truly doing a great job, and I deeply appreciate them.

Before leaving, we all joined hands to pray for the children, asking God to protect and bless them. As we left the orphanage, I couldn’t stop thinking about them throughout the journey back. That visit taught me compassion and gratitude. I silently prayed that God would bless me enough so I could always give to orphans and others in need because they truly deserve all the help, love, and support the world can offer.