At-Risk Children: The Courage to Reach Out, Part I
One Man’s Trash is a Boy’s Treasure
One day early this year I was sitting in a van and roasting in the tropical noontime heat of downtown Monrovia, Liberia. People crowded the sidewalks, unwelcome odors radiated from the streets, and sweat rolled down my rib cage. I was angry about being robbed in Brussels en route to Liberia and sleep-deprived by the extended travel across many time zones. Stress and fatigue were causing intestinal gurgles that also gave me understandable concern. I feared for my health, my emotional energy, and my spiritual preparedness for the week of work ahead.
Suddenly a barefooted teenager stepped out of the pack of people moving along the street. Quick as a cat, he scooped up something lying in the gutter. It was a piece of bread that someone had tossed aside. Brushing it briefly with his other hand, he popped it into his mouth and continued down the street.
I envisioned the contaminated water and bacteria-infested dirt on that crust—and almost gagged on his behalf. Then I saw the bigger picture. I sat back in my sweat and reminded myself, “He is why I am here.” This boy is like the thousands of teens and 20-somethings—many of them former child soldiers—who are influenced by the young men and women whom God is allowing me to teach this week. God can transform his life, and I get to help them help him!” His plight rekindled my courage and willingness to be a bit uncomfortable and sacrifice a bit of safety in order to contend for the hearts and lifestyles of at-risk children, youth, and adults across Liberia.
What motivates you to help others? We love to hear from our friends. Please share your thoughts in the comments section below!
