Màira

She is 12 years old, lives and works in the `Mama Hilda` hostal from Chugchilan. Right now she works 7 days a week from 7- 23 but when the school starts, she will study on Friday and Saturday and work all the other days.

When we first saw her she was cleaning vegetables on the porch for the tourists' supper. Barely answered our `hello`. Later in the afternoon, when she asked us if we had laundry to be cleaned, wanted to know what was Borja doing with all those little balls: 'a bracellet'! We gave her some of the 'balls' we did not use and she asked us for the price: 'nothing! It's a present for you to learn how to make artesania'. Big eyes, and left in a hurry with a happy smile on her face. The next day she came and asked for more.

'When are you leaving?' 'Tomorrow!' 'Oh, do come back, please! In September, ok?' 'It's not possible, Maira, our countries are too far away.'

The last night, the owner asked us if we wanted to buy Maira. We did not understand the question, thought it was a joke, but from her eyes we realized it was for real. I understood now her earlier questions whether we had children or how many would like to have. 'Sorry, but it's impossible! We don't do these things...' Didn't know what else to answer.

Next morning, just 2 kisses as good bye ('be a good girl and study a lot to get out of this dump, ok?') and we are off for our next destination.

I know we cannot save the world, but can we help saving just one life?


Ella es Máira: 12 años y mucha vida por vivir