Harmony* started barrel racing as a child. She loved the competition and the peace she felt while riding. But mostly, Harmony loved long car rides, and talks, with her mother as they worked the racing circuit.
But when Harmony turned 10 years old, her mother met a man who introduced her to drugs.
Tragically, Harmony and her siblings were left to care for themselves. At an age when most kids’ responsibilities include homework and chores, Harmony was raising her siblings.
When the children were separated in foster care, Harmony was angry at her mother, her mother’s boyfriend and herself for not doing more to protect her brothers and sisters.
“Forgive as the Lord forgave you”
At New Life Children’s Center, Harmony learned the importance of forgiveness through Bible studies, worship services and spiritual care. Her favorite Bible verse is Colossians 3:13:
“Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.”
Now, Harmony is extending grace to herself and her mother, who is substance-free and eager to reunite with the family.
Harmony’s message to our generous partners
Harmony will graduate high school in the fall. She plans to attend college and become an obstetrician.
But before she leaves New Life, Harmony has a message for the generous friends who gave her the chance to heal.
“There are so many kids like me who need help. God will give you wonders in Heaven because you are helping his hurting children.”
Thank you for 25 years of hope and healing
This year, Upbring is celebrating New Life’s 25-year-anniversary. In that time, we have met the physical, emotional and spiritual needs of approximately 3,000 brave girls like Harmony. But we have not done our life-changing work alone.
Each step we take toward our mission to break the cycle of child abuse is because of our generous friends and ministry partners. Thank you for 25 years of hope and healing at New Life!
*Harmony’s story is true, but we used a pseudonym and stock photo to protect her identity. We give each girl at our children’s centers the opportunity to choose a pseudonym. Harmony chose her name because she has grown into a role model who provides comfort and peace for her peers during difficult circumstances.