When I see Jonathan playing with the other kids and interacting with the mothers, only one word comes to mind – potential.
Too often in life we over-use the word potential. And as we do, it starts to lose its meaning. I truly believe Jonathan embodies the true meaning . . . the pure meaning . . . of the word potential. He has the possibility and the capability to truly be the man God created him to be.
Jonathan’s background is a sad and painful one. Before Jonathan entered our doors at Dorie’s Promise, life for him was full of abuse, both physical and emotional. If you look at his arms you will see the burns and scars caused by a fire set by his brothers. If you look at his hands you will see the scars of the third-degree burns left by his mother. (She has been charged with child neglect and is now waiting for a final verdict from the judge.) As you can imagine, the lack of parenting, and lack of love, has left long-lasting scars on this beautiful child’s life.
Jonathan’s first couple of months here at Dorie’s Promise were challenging. He was trying his best to adjust to a new home. He was shy and had regular behavioral outbursts. Jonathan’s heart was filled with anger towards his old life, and his mother.
But today Jonathan is different. He is now an outgoing child who loves to play soccer with the other boys. He has been able to start calling Dorie’s Promise his home – a place where he can grow and feel loved by our special moms. Jonathan is truly a fighter. He has been able to overcome some horrific events that have taken place in his life. And he is choosing to fight. That is why I see great potential.
Jonathan’s life is being forever changed as he is able to be a child again – loud with energy – just how God created him to be. Jonathan is a smart and bright guy. He enjoys going to school and is excelling in his classes. (Since being at Dorie’s Promise he has been able to attend school for the first time. It was something his family never allowed him to do.) And not only has he been able to make friends here at Dorie’s Promise, but also at school.
Please continue to support children like Jonathan – kids that have the right to live in a loving home like Dorie’s Promise? They need you. They love you. And above all, they trust you. After all, who else do they have?