Sad News, But Gonna Celebrate Anyway

I used to work with the middle schoolers at my church. The first year I worked with them, I had a group of girls who were AWESOME. They were also sad. Not one of the 10 or so girls had their biological father in their lives.

Some of the girls were doing well and had managed to move past the fact that their fathers had neglected them. Others, well... it was obvious to me then (as it is now) that the lack of affection from their fathers had scarred them deeply.

Tonight I learned that one of the girls who was deeply wounded is pregnant. She's sixteen or so. I am heartbroken for so many reasons.

This girl should have never had to deal with some of the issues she's had to deal with concerning her biological father. It was clear to me, years ago, that she was searching for approval and love. Now, she's found some physical attraction that she's is accepting as a substitute for real love.

Even though she has been taught that she is fearfully and wonderfully made, and that she has a purpose there is no real substitute for a father's love.

I pray she will finish school. I hope I can influence her in a positive way as far as motherhood goes -- even though I am sooooo new at this gig. I want her to know she is still precious.

So, I am choosing to mourn the loss of innocence and to celebrate the hope that this new life holds.