His name is Paolo.
He is 16.
He grew up in Manila.
He has 9 siblings and is the 2nd youngest. 4 of which were also sold.
He didn’t get to grow up watching cartoons.
His mom was an addict.
He was moved from institution to institution,
He was moved back to his parents because of behavioral problems.
He was hung upside down and was starved for a week as punishment.
His mom sold him to a lawyer 10,000 pesos (about $230) to buy some drugs.
He got sent BACK to his parents but because of continuous beating he got taken away.
He got referred to Children’s Garden where he is now being loved by people who care about him.
He never passed elementary school but is taking an ALS (alternative learning system) exam in hopes of passing.
He wants to be a chef and a lawyer.
He helps at the church cleaning, setting up chairs and making sure the church is ready for service.
He helps at the CICL (children in conflict with the law) as a team leader who goes and ministers with the CICLs.
He got up in front of 6 new american men and told his story.
He smiles all the time.
He can play the guitar very well,
He can dance like crazy.
He never gave up on himself.
He is loved by GOD.
His favorite verse is James 1:2-4
Consider it pure joy my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds. because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.
Let perseverance finish it’s work so that you may be mature and complete
not lack anything.
He has more “right” to hate the world.
He CHOSE to let God love him.
He CHOSE to never give up and to keep fighting.
He is a walking, living representation of James 1:2-4.
He is just ONE of 20 kids at Children’s Garden.
Now I can’t get that verse out of my head.
Now I can’t even begin to understand what he gone through.
Now I tear up every time I think about when he said his favorite….and I read it out loud.
Now I can’t even begin to think I face trials that I can’t overcome.
Now I must do all that I can to live in a way that shines God’s love.
Now I must be joyful for all things are for me to grow.
Now I am forever changed.
Now I must tell his story.
