As we oriented in Colombia, we met a handful of people who
would become significant to us during our week there. They would have
roles as hosts, translators, tour guides, teachers, and more. Wellington
was one of those people, and he is an ambassador.
An
ambassador is a mediator of sorts, moving within the space between
groups and helping to bridge the gap between them. Wellington and his
American family are immersed in Colombian culture, honoring and
integrating both.
At three years old, he is developing language
simultaneously in both English and Spanish. Translation for others is
modeled often, and he is beginning to recognize that different people and different groups communicate in different ways, sometimes needing help to reach
understanding. He likes books, cars, wrestling, imaginative
play. He connects with others naturally. He sometimes engages in
conversation, and having him around often triggers other conversations,
too.
Wellington is
not merely a side note in his family, nor a hindrance to their "real"
work. Rather, by simply showing up as himself and blooming where he is
planted, this little guy is a blessing to those around him.
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