Flora

The giant steps forth from the home she built, commanding respect while earning love and admiration. She stands at 5' 5" but carries a presence at an even 7'. There is no shame to be found in Flora. She will shout HIV/AIDS from the rooftops if she thinks it will help, while most fearfully whisper and hide the lifestyles that perpetuate the disaster. Flora is firm and bold. As she introduces the children she is quick to call one naughty, another trouble, and tell of the third who spends too much time with questionable people. But Flora is quick to praise as well. This one, she says, is at the top of her class. Another has taken her ARVs and is much improved. The thirds is a sweet girl who will help watch the others. Get that little one to use the toilet before you all leave! She's trouble, warns Flora, looming towards the 3 year old girl. It is not to tear her down or to hurt her. Flora will not have any dishonesty in her house, and that includes treating an ill-behaved child like a princess. This little girl must learn to behave, and will accept Flora's care and love with the frankness.

Flora stands as a giant, her short grey hair quickly falling from her scalp. Her mismatched shoes have led her into offices of the wealthy and powerful, her thundering voice has built walls and hope. An AIDS orphanage, for children left behind by the virus that claimed their parents, is many long strides to the future. But Flora bounds on, continuing her hospice care and amateur orphanage in the four room house. She has the land, the first bricks have been laid, and as we wait to ponder what happens next there is no waiting for Flora- she presses on. Child by child, she rebuilds dignity and establishes order where both have been stripped by a legacy of hate. Soul by soul, she breathes new life.