Dee and I started talking about some particular problems she was going through, when Natisha suddenly jumped in and began openly sharing about her own problems. As with most of our Aslan kids, Natisha has no relationship whatsoever with her father. She said that her mother had been in jail on drug charges, so Natisha has been living with her grandmother for some time. Her mom was recently released from jail and is now living with a boyfriend, Natisha would really like to live with her again, but she is not sure her mom can stay off drugs. What a burden for a 16-year-old teenager to be carrying around!
As we sat there talking, it surprised me that Natisha could pour her heart out in such a matter of fact way. Her dysfunctional family is "normal" to her. She has no expectations for her life to ever be different than it is now (and has always been). I sat there in amazement as I wondered how either of these 16-year-old girls can expect to lead a normal life. So much damage has to be undone. So many walls have to be rebuilt. So many hurts have to be healed.
In spite of their own deep hurts and pain, both girls were smiling and laughing and talking about all the fun things we will be doing with Aslan during the next few months. Rather than feeling despair, I felt a real sense of peace as we talked. I remembered that Aslan exists to help these broken children realize how precious and important they are in God's sight. As they experience God's love, the damage can be undone!
Just last week, Penny, a long-time friend and supporter of Aslan sent us this encouraging reminder of the purpose and calling we have in the work of Aslan. "So glad you have heard the call and are willing to travel down the road God has called you to travel, pouring yourselves out for the sons and daughters of Aslan." Thank you, Penny, and thanks to all of you who believe in, support and pray for Aslan. It is a privilege to serve these children and be entrusted with this life-changing work!
Most sincerely,