Patianus(Left)Petrus(Center)Kins(Right), Community Visit February 4 2026
I want to share a story from Timbildam Village, Oksibil, the capital of Pegunungan Bintang Regency, Highlands Papua Province.
My journey back to Oksibil, the mountainous province of Papua, was not easy. I had to overcome many challenges – physically, mentally, and emotionally. The long journey, the limited conditions, and the fear that sometimes arose were all part of the struggle. But deep inside, there was a strong urge: I wanted to return, I wanted to be present, I wanted to do something meaningful for the children there.
When I arrived in Oksibil, the next struggle was even harder: how to approach the parents and children. Not everyone would trust me. Some looked at me skeptically, some remained silent, and still others simply observed from afar. I realized that trust can’t be forced. I started small—greeting them, sitting with them, listening to their stories, and being present without making too many demands.
Gradually, I began to approach the children. I invited them to play, told them stories, and from there, I began to introduce them to the Power of Goodness. Not through formal teaching, but through simple stories—about kindness, about helping each other, about hope. I saw their eyes begin to change – from blank to sparkling.
My feelings were mixed: fear, sadness, happiness, and pity. Seeing their condition, their limitations, and the future that seemed so difficult moved me deeply. On the other hand, I felt that hope was still there. It was small, but real – and that is what kept me going. The children were starting to change. They became more open, spoke up more, and one even said to me,
“Brother, that story is good… I want to be a good person.” This simple sentence touched my heart deeply.
The challenges I continue to face include limited facilities, environmental conditions, and maintaining consistency amidst circumstances that are not always supportive. Sometimes I feel tired and alone. But every time I see the children, I remember why I started. The children love the stories. They enjoy being invited to gather, spend time together, and hear positive things. Some even ask when I will come back. That gives me strength.
Parents have expressed gratitude and said: “The children feel calmer when they participate in activities.” Some parents are still hesitant, and I understand that. Change takes time. I do this because I believe—if small acts of kindness are consistently practiced—they will one day become something great. I simply want to be present, plant seeds of peace, and nurture hope in Timbildam Village, Oksibil.
Thank you to all my friends who inspire and support me.
Patianus shares story with the Children in Timbildam Village,Oksibil-Mountainous Province of Papua.
March 10 2026
Patianus (Orange Shirt) with Anne in Open Play Papua Practicing Peace 2026. January 23 2026