Posted in Thailand by Rachel Ridings on 4/10/2012
This month I am in Phuket, Thailand with 10 of our women from A-squad. We are working with an organization called SHE. SHE focuses on sharing hope and love to women and children that are caught in human trafficking, are on the streets, are bar girls or are working in the commercial sex trade industry.
This is done by literally walking on the streets of Patong and going into bars. We are not here to condemn, ‘pass out tracks’ or force them to pray the sinner’s prayer. The desire is to display grace by meeting them right where they are at. SHE is an organization that focuses on giving the women a better way of life. They can receive training, counseling, and rehabilitation at the center. There are also opportunities to learn English and a trade that will increase their self-worth and add value to the community they live in.
Here in Thailand it is a cultural requirement and an ‘act of honor’ for Thai women to be responsible and carry the burden of providing for the family income. Therefore, many of the women that are on the streets, in bars and sold into trafficking are doing so because they have no other choice. Many of them have been left by their husbands, have parents that are sick and hungry children that need them to provide.
I have so much hope though! I have only been out one night so far and Jesus is already opening doors. I was able to meet and talk with eight bar girls. They were all very open and even shared parts of their stories with me. The goal is to eventually take them on what SHE calls a ‘date’ during the day. It provides for an environment away from the bar scene where we build relationships and trust. We get to take them out for a coke or coffee and tell them about the opportunities available at SHE. There have been over 150 women that have been rescued by this organization alone since 2006.
Some of you know my story and some of you don’t. Being here and seeing these women takes me back to not that long ago in my own life. About 3 years ago I worked in a bar similar to the ones here. In fact, I have worked in restaurants and bars for the better part of my life starting at age 15. I too was working there because I didn’t think I was worthy of anything else and needed quick cash. This enviroment and other circumstances quickly led me down a path that involved addictions, selfishness, insecurities, and unhealthy relationships.
I lived this way for a long time, and each year would fall further down into the spiral effect. Although, my experience and job description was a little different than the girls here I can relate and understand where they are coming from. I remember thinking I knew I was better but didn’t know how to quit or get out. There was this feeling of being trapped that I don’t quite fully know how to describe. Deep down there was a longing and need to love and be loved that I hadn't ever experienced but was desperate for.
There were many times of breakthrough but it was still a long process of coming out and ultimately a choice that I had to make on my own. What changed my life the most were the people Jesus brought into my life. There are specific people that walked through this journey with me and were with me every step of the way. They met me right where I was at. They didn't have any expectations but to love and show me there was more to life. Honestly, I don’t know how to thank you. It moves me to the depth of my core that you loved me through it all. You showed a grace that I didn't even know was possible and spoke truth with the most loving intentions. You know who you are…. Truly, you have changed my life forever. From what you have done for me, God is now using me to do for others.
I am beyond ecstatic for this opportunity. I have much sobriety as I celebrate the resurrection of Jesus this month and the redemption that He brings. My prayer is that the women we meet this month would recognize that they are worthy of love and grace.It's not what you do, It's what He has already done. All you have to do is say yes and recieve His love. From there it's the start to walking out a beautiful journey hand in hand with the Lover of your soul.
