Chahloula visited the Gateways2Life women and children's center last Thursday before preparing to leaving Greece. It was a weird day. For some reason, the event never really got into a good rhythm. I'm sure Chahloula isn't the only one this has happened to!
At the Gateways2Life women and children's center, when the kids were asking for magic, I needed to do more than make water disappear, so I turned milk into a white silk!
I packed my face painting supplies and brought them to Greece with me. That was a really good idea. There are talented women here who can put my dusty face paints to good use!
In the midst of saying good-bye to all of my Tunisian friends, I had the opportunity to clown with my young friend Ameni. For the first time, Chuku Chuka and Chahloula worked together to put on a show at a day care center. Lord willing, it will not be the last time.
The refugees call us, "My friend, my friend!" when they want something. It is actually kind of sweet. I have one more week here in Lesvos, then I will return to Tunisia for a month. I will be happy to hear the children calling me "Mama LeeAnn!"
I am back on the Greek island of Lesvos! This time I am working with Gateways2Life at a women and children's center across the street from the refugee camp. I was just here in June, but hey, they said they needed help, and I am happy to be here!
Yay! I have pictures to share from clowning with the refugees on the island of Lesvos, Greece in June! It doesn't matter how heavy the suitcase is, or how far I have to carry it, the children are worth the effort!
I usually start my clown events by playing catch with the audience and a stuffed fish. It sets the tone of playfulness and fun for the event. I made two videos in which I demonstrate a couple simple, playful tricks.
YAY! Chahloula has a new clown friend! A family I have known for a long time has three daughters. The middle girl, Ameni, wanted to try being a clown. She did great her first time out in the neighborhood! The name of this new Tunisian clown is.... Chuku Chuka!
We can probably agree that everyone in the world goes through difficult things, including children, even in middle-class American suburbs. It doesn't matter if you are clowning with refugees, at kids' birthday parties, at hospitals, or at churches. One or more of the people in your audience might need you, right at that moment, to help them forget the trauma in their lives.
