I realize not everyone is so fortunate.
When I was born, my mother gave me to my grandfather – because he was my biological father. The idea of raising me was too painful for her. I didn’t know this until I was seven years old. I lived with my grandparents, and, as I got older, my grandmother didn’t want to keep me either. She was afraid my grandfather would start abusing me. My grandfather also didn’t want me around. I felt alone. I became very rebellious and didn’t obey anyone. I left home and went to a short-term holding house. The authorities knew it was dangerous for me there, so they called Hope Unlimited right away to come take care of me. I was just 11 years old.
I remember receiving Valentine’s Day cards at our summer Day of Love party from people in the United States. The first time I opened one of these cards, I was overwhelmed. Someone who didn’t even know me, but who wanted to encourage me and pray for me, sent it with love.
My friends and I were so excited to receive the cards. They made me feel like I was part of something bigger than myself. There were people rooting for me and loving me from afar. I would put the cards in my locker and remember when times were hard that friends in the United States were praying for me and thinking of me.
I was at the City of Youth for seven years. There were highs and lows, but the staff here became my family. They taught me how to behave, how to slowly open my heart, how to love, and how to have healthy relationships. I would not be where I am today without Hope Unlimited.
Today I am a happy wife and mother to two sons. My husband and I live and work here at the City of Youth. By God’s grace, I am an example to the kids that transformation is possible. With God’s help, no matter what your past is like, you can learn to love and write your own family story. And it’s not just me. Our church is full of examples of others who have graduated from the City of Youth and had similar experiences of healing and transformation.
If you’re willing to take just a few minutes to Celebrate Love, provide encouragement, and offer a sense of shelter to a young girl, just click on the heart to learn how.
Oh, my goodness! I wish I was in my studio right now… I would have scissors (or something!) in hand, ready to begin my Valentine card. As it is, I have a deadline when I do get home, but April 1 gives me hope.
Unlimited.
This is such a lovely post! Bless you for all you do to God’s glory.
Kelley~
A wonderful story of redemption, love and grace.
What a wonderful story – God bless her! Thank you for sharing.
Thank you for that – so very beautiful.
Goodness me – I can’t imagine the pain of knowing you are not wanted by your own family.
A wonderful story – thank you.
hugs
Shane ♥
What an incredible story. She is an amazing young woman. I’m so glad that her life has become so much more that she ever dreamed possible because of God and a loving home like Hope Unlimited. It certainly puts things into perspective.
What a wonderful story of redemption and God’s abundant grace. And just beautiful that she is giving back and investing her life in others. Only a loving God can work a miracle like that. Thanks for sharing. I went back to your tables cape. Beautiful!
Truly a wonderful reason to be all that we can be to others – who may be in need of a helping hand. I’m so blessed to be able to be part of Thrive Team … reading this confirms I have made the right choice (not that there was ever a doubt) .. many blessings, C. (HHL)
What a very touching story. So sad that there so many just like her. Glad things worked out so well for all concerned.
The story made me cry, such an inspiring one!
Visiting from Pink Saturday.
Come see My PINK when you get a chance. Thanks.
This is so beautiful that a small card send with prayers and love will be received in the same manner as it was sent.
What a beautiful story. Thanks for including the link — I’ll keep my Valentine supplies out a little longer. Happy Pink Saturday!
P.S. Happy to be your latest follower.
What a beautiful story! My prayers for her and all those who face such obstacles.
What a wonderful program! It’s my first time visiting here and I am so glad I did! I will be making and sending a card 🙂 Thank you for sharing this story!
Is it possible to overestimate our desire to be loved? We need to be so much better at this…
joannempotter.blogspot.com
Wow, a story demonstrating good does come with tragedy. . .thank you for sharing your heart and words.
What an inspiring story. Thank you for sharing it with us on Spiritual Sundays.
Blessings,
Charlotte
I am so very encouraged by this, my dreams to help the cast out and down trodden gets stronger whenever I read stories like this. Thanks for sharing.
Have a super blessed day!
Love
http://www.ugochi-jolomi.com
Everyone deserves to be loved!
Thank you SO very much for linking up your Valentine goodness!
I love stories of God’s redemption manifested in the life of a child! God is still in the Miracle making Business!!!!!
JaneEllen