I face a week like none other... my last. How I wish I could explain the hole that is already forming in my heart as I prepare to leave a group of people I have grown to love like my own family. I would love to find the words to describe how much it pains me to think that my kids may not understand my situation and think less of me as I leave. And even though it can be beyond crazy around there at times, I am going to miss how God can be found in even the most chaotic moments. No one will ever truly understand (even I don't at times) how life changing this adventure has been for me. The people, the experiences, and those beautiful children have opened my eyes to a world I would have never known if I didn't take the step of faith God asked me to take. He has shown me the value there is in being vulnerable, it allows for others to love you just as you are. He taught me how much courage it takes to stand when others refuse to rise. He explained to great extent what it means to love others just as He loves us, even when it's inconvenient. He shared with me what ministry is all about, and amazingly, it's not about anyone involved at all, but how He uses each and every one of us to bring about His glory.
What an honor it has been to serve along such amazing women. To see their strength and efforts to support their families and raise their children. I thank God for allowing them the chance to walk through Ms. Pearl's doors. Even if they are not fully prepared for God's plan in their life, God is ready for them and will take the necessary steps to draw them closer. And what better place to meet Him than through the life of one of His most precious creations, Ms. Pearl. I know she is still human, but this woman has been blessed with God's hand upon her life, and does her best to share all she has been given. She extends such grace, discipline, love, and humility to so many who are in need of such attention. I have been truly impacted by her example and convicted to have the faith it takes to live sold out for the cause we have all been called by a God who does everything in His power to move in our lives. Time and time again, Ms. Pearl has reminded me of what a mighty God we serve and how faithful He is when we remain faithful to Him. Oh how I pray to not lose that glorious reminder and be renewed by His redeeming love. A huge shout out to to Pearl Willis for this opportunity, she will never fully comprehend how God has used her in so many lives!
And I cannot forget my wonderful friends I have made along the way. So many memories that I will hold dear in my heart, and will always keep in that silly journal I wrote in so much over the year. (I know I am a nerd, but I didn't want to forget anything!) You have taught me what it is like living with someone I've never met before or the fun you can have getting to know someone new. You opened doors for my taste buds as I tried so many different foods and shared so many laughs over meals that ran late into the evening. We have shared many random moments, whether awkward or just plain bizarre, we were in it together. You have helped me find humor in the difficult moments and joined in on the laughter as we looked at the craziness our lives contain. Please know you have enriched my life and encouraged my faith, and for that I am forever grateful!
And to my precious kids, oh how Ms. Wendy loves you. I'll never forget the first time Ms. Tay Tay left me alone with a room full of you as she went to class. I was terrified you were going to eat me alive, and even though I was left with some battle scars, you all learned to love that crazy girl who thought she could handle you all. I will always remember the day each one of you came to realize that I wouldn't let you get away with just anything anymore. As I looked at your tearful eyes as you went to time out, I also saw that you knew I was serious and would do it again if I had to. You will never know how hard that was for me, or how much joy it brought to my heart as you began to listen to what I had to say and did what I told you. We have been through a lot together, I have seen you grow into some pretty amazing little people. I'm asking God to keep you safe and may you never lose the memory of Ms. Wendy, because she will never forget you and will never stop loving you! (Even when you tell me I can't love you Janiyah! :) )
To my older kids, you have no idea how nervous the thought of working with you made me. My insecurities told me that you would be too much, I wasn't ready for you, and I would never make a difference. But God is using you to defeat the odds and has completely changed my view. As you are right now, you are more than enough, there is no need to change who you are in order to please others. God knew what He was doing when He created you and designed your life, be patient and He will reveal as He goes along. My heart was far beyond ready for how much I would care about you. Even though Ms. Wendy's face would get all red when I was upset or I made you do some silly game for our bible lesson, I always loved you. I was blown away by the random words of kindness you would let slip out as you let your guard down because deep down I wasn't out to get you. It was so hard to be consistent and not be a push over, but after some time, you may have even realized I was legit. And I can promise you that I was. If I could change anything, I would change the amount of time I had to work with you all. I am so proud of each and every one of you and pray God keeps you close as you journey through life. Remember your memory verses (no matter how dumb the actions are), be nice to each other for you may be all each of you have, and always know that you have someone in your corner willing to fight for you and willing to love you no matter the cost. I pray you never forget the lessons you have learned and one day you truly appreciate what the staff at Roseland Community Good News Daycare has done for you, because I know I won't.
And to the readers, thank you for your support. You will never know what it meant to see that someone read my story. I only hope I have encouraged you with my words and have shed some light on how God can use any of us do what seems impossible. I praise Him for your support and thank you for caring about this adventure. May I only encourage you in return, to be bold, be brave, and never fear of the next step God has in store for you.
Love In Christ,
Ms. Wendy
