This year, Christmas had a whole new meaning for me. I heard the story of Jesus’ birth for the first time. I got to open presents Christmas morning, but this time it wasn’t just about the gifts; it was more about the love and thought that went into each present. I was surrounded by what seemed like an entirely different world. People were happy and laughing, sharing stories and cheesy jokes, weird dancing, and a couple of tears, shed by bedside. The whole time I caught myself somewhat “checked out” as if I was sitting across the room watching the night play on. It was surreal. To think that I’m here, with these people, who now call me family, enjoying my life, discovering what love is; it’s the most unreal reality that I now face everyday. Christmas wasn’t so great for me last year. Instead of joy and laughter, I experienced sorrow and tears; instead of love and happiness I felt pain and fear.
But because of who God is and what He has done, because of Jenny and her obedience to God, because of my aunties and their families, and because of those of you who have been called to support my home and this dream, I now feel safe and most of all LOVED!!!!
-From a girl who now calls Courage House home