I have typed and retyped the first couple of sentences about ten times now. It is so hard to know exactly where to start and what I should write about. Upon arriving home, life has been crazy. School is starting again which does not have the same meaning it did when I was a student and then a teacher. But this year it has been extra special.
Through my job with the Women's Ministry I was blessed to meet a sweet family of 7 right before Christmas. Veronica's story, a single mom of 6, was shared with the Women's Ministry and we immediately knew we had to help. Mavita and I went to Veronica's house and met her children one afternoon and connected immediately. They had no running water, no electricity and would not being having the typical Christmas with presents under the tree. We immediately contacted about 20 people through texting and in a matter of hours, I had $1,400 cash in my hands. I was amazed at the generosity that was shown.
We were able to turn on the water, figure out the problem with the electricity, get some neccessities and allow this young mom to give her children gifts for Christmas. They were thrilled! Thrilled to be able to take baths at their own home, wash clothes, and sit in warmth!
Over the last 9 months, we have come to know this family more and more. Veronica, a victim of domestic violence, is a loving mom that wants the best for her children. We have cried with her, laughed with her, prayed with her, and been right along side her as she struggles everyday to make ends meet.
Her kids have captured my heart in a way that will forever change me. Patricia, 14, has a sweet smile and is quiet most of the time. She just started her freshman year at JT. Jonathan, a 7th grader, is eager to be involved and be around people. After the first time of going to church with us, he was begging to be there anytime the youth was getting together. Nathan, our fourth grader, is definitely the jokester of the family. Pablo, the second grader, seems quiet at first but loves to chat and have fun. Alexa, the 5 year old is the giggler. The minute I walk in the door she is right there giggling. Luna, the one year old is the explorer. She loves to get into things and always has someone paying attention to her.
My life has been changed because of their presence in my life. I realize everyday how blessed I was to have parents that were able to give us simple things like school supplies and clothes. It has made me understand the importance of Jesus meeting the physical needs for the people around him. I have seen the generosity of others exhibited as they help provide for this sweet family.
After a year or longer of being without work, Veronica has started working this week and is loving it. She is an amazing mom and loves children. We have seen this family go from a time of desperation to knowing they will have a roof over their heads and running water longer than they thought. They got to start school with brand new school supplies and Patricia was able to shop for some clothes to start her time in high school.
I look forward to each time I get to see these blessings and love every minute we have together.
