Photo: Ethan the Sultan with Maids in the background



Two worlds collide around the resort pool: the posh lifestyles of the privileged flourish due to the 3rd country nationals who silently serve them with grace and dignity. Providing a livelihood to maids and servants who earn more than possible in Sri Lanka or The Philippines seems like a noble thing, yet I fear this opportunity is often given with strings attached that become cords of bondage.

I stood close to Sheva in her pressed uniform as she observed her charges in the pool. Before I could initiate conversation, she asked if I was enjoying the water. Her English was excellent, learned in primary school in the Philippines. Her brilliant smile belied the pain that leaked at my gentle questioning of how she liked working in Kuwait. Her fathers long term illness prompted her to sign the two year contract that would enable her to send money home. After only 3 months here her regret was strong. Her "Madame" expected her to be available 24/7 for the care of house and children which she described as very "naughty." The baby woke her at night and she survived on about 5 hours of sleep and precious little time to herself. I was shocked at her openness and curiosity as we chatted. The Sri Lankan maid who conversed with us spoke less English but appeared as though she lived a hard life. Just having someone show interest and listen seemed to bring joy to Sheva. How I wished I could do more. I am haunted by the knowledge that many of these maids suffer so much injustice at the hand of their employers they run away and wait in fear to be deported, if they are lucky. God, give me the ability to see and respond to the pain around me with wisdom and love.