censorship.

The evenings are sometimes a little extra fun: the littler ones head off to bed and the older kids enjoy some time with us, often including special treats of coloring, playing games with us, and snacks.

And this evening, we were coloring. Most were coloring mountain scenes with a lone bamboo house; perhaps a cry for individuality away from the community that probably feels invasive. Another girl draws a really beautiful, vibrant flower. And then one of the boys shows off his drawing: a person, obviously female, and obviously lacking some important clothing articles.

How do you respond without language capabilities?

We promptly cut out a shirt for her and provided an opportunity for modestly dressed paper dolls.

To our credit, we responded quickly. But now as I look at it, I probably should have provided some pants as well. I’m also now seeing the chains, which worry me more perhaps. Both were less obvious in comparison to the other graphic illustrations, and seemed less important. I’m not so sure now. Censorship seems imperative in a few ways.