One at a time-helping Richard*
I really believe the love I feel for these kids comes from God, but sometimes its not that difficult to love a kid from my own heart, as if he were my own. I feel that way about Richard, he is one of the sweetest and (appropriately) affectionate kids I’ve met. I always remember him coming on a few mountain trips with us a few years back and being the one to make sure I was alright, tell me when to stop and rest and just be a general sweetheart, I really see him as a son.
Richard* and I a few years back on a mountain hike!
Richard* disappeared for a while and I kept wondering where he was. He turnt up a few weeks ago and I was told he had been in the prison for younger kids, for robbing or something like that. We hadnt really had a chance to talk and catch up, but tonight as I was passing by and saying hi to some of the kids who work at the traffic lights he came over and gave me a hug. He asked if he could talk to me and took me for a little walk (awww) we then sat down and he told me he was sick and wanted me to take him to the docters. He actually looked genuinely worried and was asking me over and over again “are you sure you can take me on monday?”. He said he’s been coughing alot and it hurt and getting nose bleeds..I really hope he is ok.
He was also able to tell me abit more about his prison experience. He said him and another older guy I havent seen for ages were ‘blamed’ for something they didnt do (murder!) which is unfortunately very common for street kids and as a result was taken to prison. I asked if they treated him well he said “no the older ones beat me up alot”. Confused I asked “so how many kids your age are in there?” ” NONE”. “WHAT?” I said “not even one” he replied. “I was the only one, I am 11 yrs old but by some test they did on my teeth they decided I was 15.” (its also very common for the poor here not to know their age and just guess or make one up!) Already feeling like crying at the thought of my ’son’ being in such an awful place he said something that hurt even more. “They came and got us senorita and at that time I didnt have your number to call you” (talk about feeling choked up!)
I gave him a hug and promptly gave him my number and told him to call me whenever he needed help. “Thank you” he said. Thankfully of his own free will he decided to stay at the shelter tonight. I am also taking him to church tomorrow. I’m glad he is back in one way as it means I can work a bit more with him and make sure he is ok. Please pray for Richard* and that God would give me the wisdom to do whats best in his situation.
Peace
*name has been changed
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