"Did you hear Shaunti almost got shot too" Jermiah chimed in referring to the incident last week where 3 of my girls had been playing at thepark when shots began firing and they too fled for their lives, they made it back home safely but one girl, only 14 was shot.
We drive just a little down the road and Mikyla points out the window, "That's where we saw that man getting stabbed." The stories continue and then the topic switches to something light hearted as though the previous conversation was something totally normal.
I hate it, I hate that my children have to live in an area where their life is at stake daily, that they cannot play outside without fear of being shot, and even worse they are not even fully protected in their own homes. They are growing up in a warzone.
Sometimes I get overwhelmed by the injustice that surrounds me. How come they have to grow up in an area where they have to live in constant fear when just a few blocks away children can run and play freely without a care in the world?
Oh how I wish that I could give them back their childhood and allow them to experience a childhood where they are allowed to hold onto their innocense. It breaks my heart.
It brings me such great joy to be able to give them little breaks in their lives to let go of their fears and enjoy time just being kids. This past weekend I was able to take 8 children camping and we had the time of our lives. I couldn't help but be filled with such joy as we pulled up to our campsite and the children came flooding out immediately wanting to explore. We took them hiking where they were able to see deer, climb trees and breathe in the fresh air. They could not contain their excitement! Shortly after arriving the rain began and didn't let up for most of the trip, but no bad weather could hinder their fun. My mom texted me in the morning concerned about how we were doing in the rain and I could proudy report that the children were totally unfazed. They never even sought shelter they just laughed, ran, chased eachother, and played in the rain.
There were so many moments throughout the trip that I just had to stop in soak in because they filled my soul so deeply, like watching 3 little boys surrounding my brother as he taught them how to cook hamburgers and sweet corn over the fire and how they excitedly jumped at any opportunity to help him; or watching the kids kayak for the first time and catch on so quickly. They absolutely amazed me in so many ways, seeing their hearts to serve, on numerous occassions I had children approach me asking how they could help me. They were always so eager to help. I am so beyond blessed to be able to know so many incredible children, who despite the difficulties their lives have given them, they have hearts of gold.
On another note I could use some prayers. For the past year I feel the Lord has been challenging me to start support raising so that I can work a little less and focus my attention on the children I work with. As most of you know the work I do with these children is completely unpaid which definitely doesn't stop me, but at the same time having to work to support myself alongside working with them has caused my time to be drastically split. I see the great need here in West Garfield Park and want to give so much more of myself to these children. Would you please pray for me as I consider taking this leap of faith, cutting back my employment hours to be with my children? If you have any questions or desire to come alongside me please feel free to contact me!
God bless, Sama
