from unicef.org
Princess Mathilde of Belgium visits a rehabilitation center for children in Moscow
by John Varoli
``Is the princess here yet? Is the princess here yet?'' shouted Kostya excitedly as he bounced down the stairs of Kvartal, a substance abuse centre for children in Moscow.
``Tell me when her carriage pulls up,'' Kostya continued. ``I don't want to miss it.''
In a country where substance abuse is rampant, Kvartal provides hope to Kostya, and hundreds of other children. Opened in 2003 by the Moscow NGO, No to Alcohol and Narcotics, with the support of UNICEF, Kvartal treats up to 25 children at a time.
Today is a very special day, however. All morning long, the children and staff have been buzzing about in anticipation of HRH Princess Mathilde of Belgium. What child doesn't dream about meeting a real princess?
A few minutes later, the word goes out. Princess Mathilde has arrived. Though she's left her carriage at home, the children and staff are delighted to welcome such an eminent guest.
The three-floor centre has everything a child's heart could possible desire --- computer classes, a library, gym, photo studio, and art classes. Princess Mathilde, a trained psychologist with a strong interest in children's issues, goes first to the art therapy room.
After taking a seat at the table with four rather nervous children, her soft tone and caring manner quickly wins their confidence and trust.
``Ah, my favorite color is red,'' Princess Mathilde remarks after seeing red in some of their drawings.
The conversation quickly becomes lively, especially when Kostya discusses his drawings.
There are other parts of the centre to see, however, and Princess Mathilde must go. Kostya understands, and remarks that her life must be ``difficult'' because, ``a princess has to bear a whole country on her shoulders. We don't have it so hard as she does.''
After she leaves the room, Kostya gets an idea, and begins work with paints and paper. About 15 minutes later, it's done and he runs off to catch up with Princess Mathilde.
``I just want to thank you for coming here today,'' said Kostya, catching up and handing her his work of art. The drawing features a red heart with his name written across in Cyrillic letters.
Deeply touched, Princess Mathilde stops and smiles at the delighted boy. Probably more than anything today, this simple act of caring and warmth exemplifies Kvartal's success.
``Your work creates a foundation for these children's future,'' said Princess Mathilde at the end of her visit, addressing Kvartal's staff in French. ``But most of all, I've been struck by the children's own desire to solve their problems.''
