Last summer, I was approached about child sponsorship by a family of one of my former preschool students. Their girls were so excited that we would be meeting Everyn in person and it was fantastic to be a part of a new sponsorship where the family was so clearly enthused about the step they were taking.
Then my parents, long time sponsors already, with a fridge full of children from around the globe, stepped up to take tiny little round-faced Stephano.
As I looked more carefully at his profile, I realized that Stephano and Everyn had sequential ID numbers and were registered together. And we discovered these two sweet little people bore a huge resemblance to each other and were siblings.
So this visit in Malawi was a tremendous gift. We represented two very different families – one brand new to the sponsorship process and the other seasoned veterans. But they were unified in their commitment to Everyn and Stephano.
The Malawian family was already familiar with heartache: death, illness and intense poverty had already touched them. But our brief appointment brought them what they needed – assurance of commitment and support.
And football. Lots of football.
Everyn and Stephano have eyes that tell long stories of loss. But they have a definite sparkle. I believe that glimmer will grow as they live in the reality of the hope they have for a better future.
Thomas family, Mom & Dad – I am so proud of your commitment to these beautiful children. I would fear for their future if I didn’t know the gravity of the gift you have given them. Their lives will not be easy, but you have ensured them an ally in the fight.
