There’s this thing that happens when someone says, “I love
you”.
I know because I was blessed to hear this phrase spoken over
me countless times throughout my life.
I heard the words from my dad, everyday without fail. He even apologized once for maybe
saying, “I love you” too frequently.
When I work with my students here in Kayamandi, this has
become the one thing that I want them to remember above all other things,
unconditional love exits.
So I strive each day to make love the defining characteristic of my life, because I know that so
many of my students have never heard the words of love from their own parents.
And then the transition comes – when students move into
“manhood” – a culturally significant time where the men leave the childish
things behind and step into a role of provider.
It’s a tricky time for me, continuing to show how much I
love them, but also stepping back so that I respect their cultural tradition.
But I have to admit how much I love it when people (all
people) put aside their culture and act in love.
Isn’t that what Jesus did when he spoke with the woman at
the well?
His culture dictated that he not even speak with her, and
here he is offering her living water.
Don’t you just love that?!
Today when I was messaging online with a student, a recent
addition to the man club, he beat me to the punch.
“I love you sisKatie”.
Appreciation and respect entangled in this phrase that so
often I’m the first to utter.
What a counter cultural gift, wrapped in an instant message
package!
Thanks for your continued support of Film School Africa – I
sure do love you,
Katie Taylor
