11/01/2021
This is Ezekiel, son of a boat owner/tour guide on Panama’s Bocas del Toro islands (named Hilton). He’s about seven, decades younger than most of the tourists his father is taking to see dolphins, starfish, and white sand beaches.
Our tour is not a time of leisure for Ezekiel—his task is securing the boat to various docks as we move from place to place. He hardly says a word, keeping his eyes fixed on the water and sky, and following curt instructions from the capitán. What is his thinking?
While traveling, I get to meet and observe so many people. I’m especially interested in the children and young people. I watch the boys, thinking often of my own “boys”—now young men. How are they like these kids I meet around the world, and how are they different? What influences and beliefs impact their individual lives?
Ezekiel’s presence and “work” that day so enriched my experience. What can I do to show my gratitude? To let him know he matters? A few dollars’ tip just for him is a first step. Along with a heartfelt “Muchísimas gracias” and warm smile.
My prayer for this boy is that he be protected and guided by the Source of All, like his namesake, Ezekiel the prophet. That he be open (and opened!) to experiences beyond what he can imagine today.
And—may all the world’s children, of every age, receive love in this world and know the great love from beyond. (Including those of us with children and grandchildren of our own!)
