Yesterday, I awoke to an event that showed me the pain that human trafficking can cause. I walked downstairs to see Veata*,one of the little six year old girls, crying relentlessly. I was confused as to what was going on. I asked the other girls and they explained as best as they could in their broken English. Veata’s aunts were visiting and she wanted to return home with them. We were informed earlier that week that Veata’s mom had passed away and that her father wants to take sexual advantage of her. Hence, she is not safe ever sojourning home. It took her aunt about five minutes to calm Veata down and get her to eat lunch. The whole time while eating Veata was withdrawn. She usually is so alive and happy. Her sly smile has never once left her face. Her aunts do not visit her much; this seemed to be the first time since she was brought here.
After lunch her aunts got up to leave. Instantly, Veata started crying again. She would not let go of one of her aunt’s legs. She had to be ripped off by another house girl. She was screaming and thrashing around. Her aunts then managed to escape. She was at the gate crying again hysterically. Vincent*, the tuk tuk driver, tried to console her, but she would not have it. All the other house girls were very uncomfortable and their reaction was to laugh. Veata was finally persuaded to sit in the tuk tuk. She was still crying and cowered under the seat. The mom’s were trying to calm her down but Veata’s tears kept flowing.
It must be so hard for Veata because many of the other girls have been able to go home for a weekend. Veata sees and hears this. She struggles with trusting others because of her situation. I wish I could explain to her that she is so much safer at the house. Ah, this event breaks my heart and kept me up all night. So, please pray for Veata to find peace.
The Lord has comforted me by speaking to me through a song. It is “Lead Me” by Santus Real. Here are the lyrics that have resonated in my heart:
I see their faces look in their innocent eyes
they’re just children from the outside
I’m working hard
I tell myself they’ll be fine,
their independent,
but on the inside
I can hear them saying
Lead me with strong hands
Stand up when I can’t
Don’t leave me hungry for love, chasing dreams
But what about us?
Show me you’re willing to fight
That I’m still the love of your life
I know we call this our home,
but I still feel alone
Father, give me the strength to be everything I’m called to be
Father, show me the way to lead them
Won’t you lead me
To lead them with strong hands
To stand up when they can’t
Don’t want to leave them hungry for love, chasing things that I could give up
I’ll show them I’m willing to fight
And give them the best of my life
So we can call this our home
Lead ME because I can’t do this alone
Father, lead me
*Names changed for protection
