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| Mariana standing next to her house |
How many children are living with you?
I've got ten children here, four boys and six girls. The children all have their moments. They argue with one another, but after a while it's all forgotten and they're playing with each other again.
How would you describe your task as an SOS mother?
There are no words to describe it. It doesn't seem like work to me. That's how I feel about it - it isn't work at all. The most important thing is to have the will to fulfil the tasks, and I do that with love and dedication. I give a lot of myself and pray to God to give me patience.
What was the most special and beautiful moment you ever experienced as an SOS mother?
The most beautiful moment for me was when the children arrived at the village, and the phase during which I successfully helped each one to integrate into the family. And, of course, their graduation days once they have completed their schooling, watching them start their first job or start their university studies...
What special thing do you think you can give the children to help them on their way?
I think it's important for me to be able to give them responsibility for themselves. I want them to be able to take the best with them into life. I'm happy, because up to now they have all found work and are making their way in life. It was difficult for them to find work after they'd finished school, but it worked in the end. Even though they weren't living here anymore, I was still worried about them.
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| Playing ball with her children |
What do you wish for the girls and the boys?
I hope that they all complete their training. I just hope for the best for all of them, and that they all become valuable members of society. They should become good people who can stand up for themselves and keep evil at bay. That's all I want for them.
What are your wishes for all the mothers in the world?
My wish for all the mothers around the world is that they always keep a very special place in their hearts for their sons and daughters, and that they have a lot of patience and love for them so they can always give them moral and spiritual support, even when the children become independent.
How do you celebrate Mother's Day with your SOS children?
On that day I prepare a special meal for my family. I pay a visit to my children's school in order to enjoy the performances the children put on for all the mothers. I receive cards from my children, phone calls from those at the youth facilities, and at night we pray for the children's biological mothers who passed away.