Privilege is a special advantage not enjoyed by everyone, a benefit enjoyed beyond what is available to others.
It has been my privilege to walk beside young people through teaching, Young Life, and my children’s friendships. A few days ago one of my heart kids knocked on my front door. He stopped by to share his beautiful children and wife with me. As we sat on the bench at the park behind my home, Antoine shared his journey through addiction to faith and a clean life. With tears in his eyes he spoke of his amazement of the man he has become. This proud father is sharing his love and story with others. His journey is not one of shame but one of hope. What a privilege it has been to be a small stone in his path.
It makes me smile as I recall Antoine as a fifth grader walking down the hall with a sharpei puppy’s head poking out of his backpack. He was bringing that gift to me for my birthday. Way too cute for words-the puppy and Antoine’s smile. This young man was a treasure whose father walked away from and his young, broken heart was not able to see his own value. If his father didn’t see his worth, how could Antoine? The gift he had was a Mom who loved him enough for three parents. The hurt of his father never went away but he had her steadfast love. Too often this single mom felt inadequate as her sons struggled in school and in life. The truth is that over decades of teaching she is one of two moms who impressed me most. Having the most challenging kids can break a parent or help them rise even with the weight of those challenges.
What a privilege it has been for me to include Antoine and so many others in my heart family. Kids who are now young adults that impacted my life more than I could possibly impact theirs. I am beyond grateful that God gave me the opportunity to not only teach but to love and be loved through teaching. Today I am humbled and grateful to my heart kids who are also my family.
In Him,
Joyful
10-17-20
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