I wonder where Brian is today. Who is Brian, you might ask? He is a small 4-5 year old boy I met at the Kwasa Centre in South Africa two weeks ago. Of course, I met scores of little African children during the three days spent at the Centre. Brian stood out because he was quet and seemingly detached from his surroundings. I couldn’t connect with him.
For example, unlike most of the children we met, Brian was reluctant to look at me or take my hand. When we handed out stuffed animals one day, Brian didn’t react when I gave him his present ( a large and smiling bulldog). He did not respond to his teacher’s instructions and didn’t sing or recite with his fellow students. He took his two meals each day without enthusiasm.
Could he hear? Was he autistic? Had he been traumatized? Was he afraid of these white church folks who had invaded his school for a few days? Fortunately and not suprisingly, the staff knew about him and was lining him up for an examination. I was relieved to learn that he was going to get help.
If I am fortunate enough to return to South Africa, I will look for Brian, for I pray for him daily and always ask God to look over him. He has changed my life, even though I am fast approaching the age of 71. One is never too old to ache for those in need.
Thank you, St. John’s, for making this life-changing trip possible.
Fred Webber
Hello Fred
I thought that I would let you know about the small boy called Brian. I do remember your concerns and worries about him. At the beginning of 2009 I made an appointment with a Therapist at a local Clinic called Nokuthela Ngwneya. I took Brian and some other children there for an assessment – this was prompted by your concern for him. At the Clinic he was assessed and the Therapist semmed to think that he is just a very quiet and shy boy and that as his confidence grew and as he became more mature he would improve. Brian is now 5 years old turning 6 in December and is now in Grade RR class. This means that he is eligible to attend Primary School next year. He is now in Sheila Radebe’s class and she is a VERY experienced teacher. We keep a careful watch on him and can assure you that if we think that he is not ready for Primary School next year we can and we WILL keep him with us at Kwasa for 2011 after further professional assessment. This year has only been in full swing for 2 weeks now and Sheila assures me that he participates in class discusson (with encouragement) and has already learned to say the “Class Prayer” in English! This is more than some of his class mates can do! He is still a physically immature – but then perhaps he is going to be an academic one day and not a sportsman! He still does not smile very much but plays happily with peers and does not seem to be an unhappy child. Please continue to keep him in your prayers – I’m sure that he can feel that long distance love from both you and God! Please Mail me is you would like further contact and news on YOUR FRIEND BRIAN.
Regards
Gill