Stories

I've had requests to tell a few stories... so here it goes.

Every day in El Cacique, Francisco and I (He is my buddy and my interpretor) conduct home visits for kids we have concerns about. One day, we met with Ariel and his father who said Ariel and his 13 yr old brother, Miguel refused to go to school. They also were not attending the Desayuno Program. This program really is breakfast with about 30 minutes of instruction and bible school. Most children come an hour before it opens and stay long after the "program" is over. There is a water spout in front of the classroom and many families gather their daily water from it.

We met with the father who first said the boys refused to go to school and he was forced to hit them because of this. When asking Ariel why he doesn't want to go to school, he said he didn't know. The father then tells us they don't go because they cannot afford the uniforms needed to attend. Clearly, he is not telling us the truth. We tell him Sociedad Lucas is able to assist in purchasing the uniforms and our desire for the boys to attend our program.

Later, we meet with Wilman, a 10 year old who showed up at the program asking for a notebook and pencil. He does not attend our program or school because each member of the family who is of working age, works and he is needed to remain home and care for his twin brother, Erikson who is physically handicapped. This boy is a treasure. He does not complain or show any bitterness toward his brother and shows us clearly how he loves his brother! We later speak to their mother who desperately wants Wilman to attend school and is considering quitting her job,which pays 3,000 pesos a month (which is about $80). Her family desperately needs her income as she tells us she begins to cry. We speak of our hope to assist family in finding care for Erikson to enable Wilman to attend Desayuno and school. At that moment, Erikson(who is sitting on the front porch playing with blocks) says "what about me? I want to go to school too!" I thought, "you go boy! Tell us what you want and need!" Together with the mom and teenaged brother, we brain storm ideas and tell them of our intent to assist in whatever way possible. It took everything i had not to break down in tears. As these brothers reminded me of my precious sister and my undying love for her.

What do you know, but the NEXT day when i arrived at the program Ariel, Miguel, Wilman and ERIKSON were seated at the program awaiting their breakfast!!!! The twin's brother took them both on his motorcycle and two of the older boys of the program helped to lift and carry Erikson from table to chairs outside!! Oh my heavens! I couldn't stop the tears that day! Dr Silvia said to me "look at what you have done, already!" and i responded with "its not me, its God." I know for certain that I am His instrument where He is using me for His purpose! Thank you Jesus! Can i get an Amen out there?!

There are many more stories but some will have to be shared later.

Love to you all and please keep praying for these wonderful people of El Cacique, of Sociedad Lucas, and me as we share the good news of Hope and try to empower these people to STAND UP and fight for a better life for themselves! It is so possible. Nothing is too hard for the Almighty!
Ustedes Amo
Mjoy

Vaya Con Dios