We’ll be sure to get a proper update for our highly enjoyable and fascinating time in Xi’an but right now we’re in Sanmenxia, a small city east of Xi’an which, surprisingly, reminds me of a mid-size city in North America. We’re here to visit International China Concern’s project, a joint project with the provincial government (and, according to Bruce, ICC’s director, highly unique in this regard as far as foreign/locally run welfare centers go).

On this short two-day visit, we’re spending most of our time in the Pearl Room, which is where all the 0-2 year old babies are housed and cared for. Today we have a full day of hugging and playing with them. Joel is really great at entertaining them and yesterday had a mound of 5 little ones climbing all over him.

Most (if not all) of the 20+ babies have some sort of special need – from down’s syndrome to internal organ malfunctions, and while we were there yesterday the police and a hospital worker came in with yet another baby. We have huge respect for the people who work here and care for these human beings – who range from newborns to adults. It’s both heart-wrenching and uplifting to see love so tangibly applied to those in dire circumstances.