Vietnam Report - March 16, 2011

I am the toothbrush man

My role on the team is the hygiene station. I work with two wonderful cousins, Magel and Margaret, both of whom are retired.

I hand out the toothbrushes, that is my job. I try to it whole-heartedly and lovingly as possible, wetting the toothbrush and dabbing it with just enough toothpaste to clean teeth but not to create too much foam. I rinse out bloody toothbrushes in water mixed with bleach to sterilize it, as well as the cups used to rinse out their mouths. I then dab their mouths as gentley and lovingly as possible, like a doting father, before giving them their hygiene kit comprised of a bar of soap, nail clippers, a comb, toothpaste, toothbrush, and handtowel, as if this kit were a most precious gift. Sometimes, I even demonstrate how to brush your teeth (and your tongue) with all the seriousness of a teacher communicating an important life-skill that would shape their future, using a plastic set of teeth with a tooth missing and an over-sized toothbrush. Mostly I smile alot to put the kids at ease -- and laugh, too -- since some have never brushed their teeth before in their lives and appear anxious.

On this trip, this is my role, and if the Apostle Paul was right in 1 Corinthians 12. then this, too, is very important in the eyes of the Father. It is my humble act of worship to serve and love the children that he loves and made.

I am the toothbrush man.