She's about to turn into the small gloomy ally that leads to her house. She's carrying her new plastic tote in hand. And my heart breaks.
This was our second class - and my third time meeting with Mae (for the back story, click on An Opportunity). Today I find out more of her story. I knew she needed to learn a trade. She needed a way to make a living. I knew she chose cardmaking. I knew she is 16, quit school and she is HIV positive.
But that's about all I knew. I don't need to know more, but it is a priveledge to know more about her, understand what makes her her. I don't want to just teach her how to glue some paper to some cardstock. But rather, to create. To feel passionate about what she does each day. I desire to build a friendship and hopefully share Christ's love with her through the process.
So, today I learn that Mae is an orphan. Orphaned by both parents. Both died of AIDS. She was born HIV positive. She lives with her aunt in the slums. She was going to school up until last semester. Until the issues caused by her HIV kept her from making it to school enough. She and her aunt tried to work with the teachers but the requirement is that she has to make it to at least 80% of her classes. It just got to the point where it wasn't possible. So, she had to drop out of school this past term.
P.'s been involved in Mae's community and her life for a long time and has known Mae for 7 years. She and church leaders decided to help Mae start her own business. They gave her different options and she chose card making - she thought it would be a good way to use her creativity. She likes to draw and from what I've seen - she's really talented.
Like I've said, we've just started classes. But I couldn't be prouder. She is so super quiet but she is a perfect student. She does everything exactly the way I show her. She does every "homework" assignment I've given her. She does such a great job and she seems to really enjoy it. She's been making more than what she committed to in the beginning - I think she's addicted to making them. She's doing awesome.
So, I leave you with this picture of Mae and her first card she's EVER made! Please pray for me as I work with Mae. Pray that she would be encouraged. Pray for the details of making/selling/supplies, etc. of the cardmaking process. And please pray ultimately that she will understand the love our Father has for her.
Oh, and check back SOON so you can find out how YOU can get involved and help Mae in a simiple but helpful way!
