TRANSITIONS

Transitions

First day of school. First grade. 1957. I cried a lot. I cried going to school. I cried at lunch time. I cried when I went home. Transitions in life are hard.

Every September 1st, I think, and pray, for orphans in Russia. For those orphans entering the first grade, they are placed not only in new schools, but new orphanages. This is such a crisis transition - my first day of school pales in comparison to their trauma.

But there is another group that I’m even more concerned about. Those are older orphans who have now left the security of their “homes”, their orphanages, not because they are prepared for life, but because they have reached the age to be moved along.  This day they are sent to a large, intimidating city, attending less-than-the-best schools where they’ve been assigned, and living independently without preparation, support or care. For some it’s somewhat exciting, but for most it’s frightening and often dangerous. But at 15 or 16 years old, they are too old to cry in public. So their tears are shed behind closed doors. Transitions in life can also be painful.

For the past four years, Orphan’s Tree has sponsored orientation activities for these new older orphans in the Vladimir, Ivanovo and Kostroma Regions. These activities are fun and educational, informing orphans who have just left their orphanages what services and support are available for them through the regional Ministry Centers. Of course we also provide an important attraction – food!

This month we will once again sponsor the orientation events. Would you pray with us for these older orphans who once again face a critical transition? This time in their lives likely will determine their future direction. May the Lord lead them to not only a “safe” place, but a fulfilling life!

George