Wooly Wednesday: Richard

Everybody loves Richard! An infectious smile and easy-going personality make being around Richard an absolute joy. He is a teenager who is genuinely a people-person. He was engaged in every single activity offered while we were visiting. He played basketball and dominos, he jumped rope, he made Rainbow Loom bracelets, and he really loved (winning) the foot races. He may or may not have been sweet on my daughter, Emily, but all I know is the two of them became fast friends. They played together, ran against each other in races and even tried to copy each other's gymnastic moves. At one point he even referred to her as his "hermana," his sister. I am so thankful for the relationships my family and the others on the No Longer team made with the children during our most recent visit to Casa Amor. The bottom line is Richard is just a whole lot of fun, and honestly, I can't say enough about his smile.

Without knowing any of the details concerning the whereabouts or status of Richard's parents, we know more than we wish we did. He comes from a horribly abusive situation, and his past includes a darkness we don't even want to imagine. But despite these past abuses and having every reason to be defeated, he keeps a sincere, beautiful smile on his face and maintains a happy spirit. I have no doubt Richard's resiliency will serve him well as he matures and becomes a man. With the right guidance, Richard will do great things in the Dominican Republic, and we are praying for positive male influences to impact his life. Being at Casa Amor is going to change his life in the most drastic way. He is now safe and secure and learning that he is loved and his life matters. He is going to school and church, and there are multiple adults investing in his life. God is so good!

Please continue to pray for Richard and the children living at Casa Amor. Their futures weigh so heavily on our minds, but we trust God has them where He wants them and He will continue to provide for their needs. If you would like to join us with a monthly or one-time donation for the children at Casa Amor, click here to find out more information.

 

A father to the fatherless, a defender of widows,

    is God in his holy dwelling.

Psalm 68:5