“Do you want to know why I am sad?” – Shayan
“Why are you sad?” – Me
“Because I won’t ever see you again.” – Shayan
These are the words that my friend Shayan said to me over and over before I left the camp.
This young 14-year-old boy followed me around all afternoon one day and we were able to talk for the majority of the time. I felt like a big brother to him. It was just he and his mom due to the fact that his father is in prison in Iran for rebelling against the government. I had such a fun time getting to know Shayan and hear about his life.
As we were walking around, I motioned for him to follow us so we could hang out. We were able to walk around for about half an hour until we had to leave. As we were walking towards the car, the Lord placed on my heart to give him my flannel and my Baylor athletic long sleeve. His reaction to receiving clothes from us is one I will never forget. He was in utter shock and his reaction was like a kid on Christmas morning. He couldn’t believe that we were giving him our warm clothes.
It was so hard to see him weep when we left. He stood there waving the whole time we were in the car until we lost sight of each other. I will never forget this young boy. He brought me so much joy and there hasn’t been a day that I haven’t prayed for him.
Shayan
Shayan made one of the biggest impacts on my life while working at the camp and I will never forget his quirky personality and that laugh that he was not afraid to let loose.
God has been breaking my heart for those that are leaving persecution for a better life but are stuck because of a few radicals that decide to inflict pain. Yes they are refugees, but they are human beings just like you and I.
What are the things that they like to do. What makes them happy? What is their favorite meal? Favorite tv show? What was this boys desire in life before having to leave?
It blows my mind that I can go home to a warm cooked meal, a bed, a pillow, and shower. All of these nice things, and yet these people are freezing to death.
I will never forget about this.
I will never be the same.
Lord, I pray for my friends. Bless them and keep them safe.
