In 2005 I had a friend read me a few stats about what was happening to women and children around the world. She proceeded to give me some more information from an amazing little book, “True Grit” that had me mesmerized and in tears. Already fascinated with a handful of other cultures and countries, my heart was torn as I discovered what was happening to these beautiful women and precious children throughout the world. Not too long after that, I saw an independent film called, “The Day My God Died” and it further rocked my world. Literally. Life changed as I knew it. The facts were in my face. I had a decision to make: turn and look the other way? … or do something about it?
I decided to do something about it.
Since then I’ve had the privilege to travel to India and Nepal multiple times, volunteering my time with various organizations working primarily in aftercare (so that once the girls are rescued, they’re not just stuck in government homes). Here’s a little taste of how I’ve been blessed to be involved:
• Design promotional materials for one of the Project Rescue Homes of Hope.
• Photograph the beautiful girls rediscovering their identity … and the gorgeous products they make now!
• Assist in designing products to be made and exported.
• Listen to many amazing, overwhelming stories of rescue and restoration.
• Listen to many heartbreaking stories of incredible need.
• Laugh with young, rescued girls so hard that tears streamed down my face.
• Dance with the children until I felt utterly ridiculous … and then danced some more.
• Pray and cry with the women until there’s not another tear left in me that day.
• Sing, sing sing! … they love to sing (and did I mention dance?!)
• Fall absolutely in love with more kids than I can even count … and seriously contemplate how to sneak them through U.S. Customs (if you figure that one out, please let me know!)
• Be a part of an amazing team called Hope Takes Flight (find the link at the bottom of the blog).
• (currently): plan a race to raise awareness in the Charlotte area … jump on board! We need all the help we can get!
• (currently): planning to head back to India for 6 weeks early next year to assist in an amazing project working with some of the homeless children in Calcutta. Ask me for details … I’d be glad to share!
