Today we began our one-on-one sessions with the women in the classes. I was a little freaked out as I didn't feel I had much wisdom or knowledge to help with their situations. What would I say? How could I help? Helpless was pouring over me like one of their daily rainstorms. But as the first girl told me her "story", I began to see that what they desired most was to be heard. Someone who helps them feel important and valuable for just a little while. I can't fix anything, but I can give them my time and my ear.
Such sad stories of young women being taken advantage of, pregnant as a result of rape or young men promising them the world, only to find themselves rejected by their families. Left on their own in their teens with no education, or method of earning money, or a place to live. Occasionally they made poor choices, but generally they were used or abused by family and friends. It's hard to justify throwing out a young pregnant girl, but if the parents have no jobs and ten other kids to feed... well, who am I to judge.
It was very sobering, disheartening, and even frightening. And yet these young ladies were resilient and strong despite their pain and poverty. They were excited and grateful to have been selected for Africa New Life's vocational program. ANL not only teaches them a trade, but they graduate with a sewing machine, fabric, and notions to ensure they can begin a new business to support themselves and their family. For the first time in their short lives, they have hope.
One of the exercises we conducted this week was to break the women into small groups with the assignment of telling each other what they liked about them. Their eyes grew round and wide at the mere thought to sharing their thoughts with another person. Some of their compliments were hilarious. One girl liked the way the other one spit! Different strokes for different folks. What began with extreme trepidation turned into smiles and giggles. They had never done such a thing in their life! Next, we asked them to be active listeners as one at a time they shared their issues. I can easily say this was a life changing event. They had never considered doing such a thing. Their lives have been shadowed with shame and guilt. Now they realized they weren't alone.
I was overwhelmed with their gratitude for the Bible. They could never afford one. I'm feeling a little slimy as I have at least a half dozen on my shelf. One woman asked me to pray that she become stronger in her faith and desire God more. I was kicking myself in the shins---when have I asked for such a thing? Oh, to see ourselves in the eyes of others. "Please come back next year. I want to see you. Bless you for what you are doing." I held it together, but it was hard sometimes.
Until tomorrow, Mama June
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