"Hakeem"

Some kids have a hard time moving on from SOZO Kids.  They come back weekly after they have gone into middle school, begging to be allowed to stay one more week.

I have to hold fast to the age limits - it's just not a good idea to mix kindergartners and middle schoolers.

Notice the thumb...kindergartners are still so young!

So when one of the boys, "Hakeem", came with his younger sisters on Friday to SOZO Kids, I was ready to stick to my guns.  He did what he had done in weeks prior - begged, questioned the rules and got his sisters to remind me how "stupid" the rules were.  I was not budging and let him know.

I wasn't ready for what happened next.

"Should we tell her?"  "Mom said not to tell anyone." "I think we should tell her."  "Do you promise not to tell anyone?"  And then out came the real reason for his desire to be at SOZO Kids for the night.  "Our electricity was turned off and I don't want to sit at home in the dark tonight."

All of my efforts to bring the hard line melted instantly as I held each of them tightly and reminded them that they would be okay.  

Ugh...I so despise the effects of poverty.  Especially on kids. 

So "Hakeem" was with us on Friday and I was so glad (I prefer being a softy if truth were told).  He and his three sisters laughed,  played and enjoyed themselves thoroughly.  I wasn't able to be at the front when they left for the night, but thoughts of them came up all weekend.  I prayed they would have a place to stay and that power would be restored soon.  I wish I could say this is the only time this has happened.  

Last week one of my regulars told me she had been taken into foster care and was no longer with her family.  Last week may have been the last time I will get to see her for awhile.  

All of this (unfortunately) comes with the territory.  These kids are so precious to me.  I can only imagine how precious they are to Jesus.  I know He sees them.  I know He knows all that is going on and I know that He cares. 

 Sometimes I wish I could just take them home with me.  

What a gift to be able to hang out with them week after week and share love and truth!

Ok, I may need to gush a bit...just look at these ADORABLE kids :)

A rap written by one of our kids

If you ever want to come and play basketball or jumprope with these kids...let me know.  

You won't be disappointed ;)