Over the course of a few days, we got to know one another.  Her Uncle, saddened by the family loss, did his best to make the girls feel safe and loved.

 

I was humbled by his love and caring and openness.  He shared with me his hospitality and I did everything I could to help, though this really amounted to very little.

 

I remember thinking that I would like to adopt these young ladies, to provide for them and give them the opportunities available in the West.  Thinking about it and in hindsight, I wish I had, but at the time, all I could think of is the tightness of their extended family and the life they knew.  The knew no other.

 

I tried to keep in touch with this family through the Red Cross and other relief organizations.  Last I heard, they moved further south and away from the Pakistan-India border.

 

I will never forget this young lady.  Often, when I look into the view finder of a camera, I still see her smiling, beaming face and feel her strength of spirit amidst the adversity and tragedy she survived.

 

Throughout my own difficulties, I have been reminded of her soulful, loving nature and it has brought me courage to face my own trials.