By Carrie Smith
Gracehaven Case Manager
When I met “Valerie” (14 years old), she was resistant to all forms of help and stated plainly that no one would be able to convince her that her attitude needed to change. She didn't want to be a part of the Gracehaven community, she wasn't interested in discussing the negative patterns in her relationships, and she was frequently starting physical altercations and skipping school.
Recently, she has started to warm up to me during our meetings in case management, and has started to take responsibility for her contribution when she is in conflict. She has become more motivated towards her schoolwork and has a dream of becoming a pediatric oncologist!
When I met with her this week, she was bubbly and excited about how she is pursuing her goals, becoming more self-aware, more willing to engage with others in meaningful ways and even be a role model to girls who are newer to Gracehaven.
About a month ago she told me that she felt like no one was her supporter, that there was no one "in her corner." When I followed up about that this week she smiled and said, "I think I said that because I felt that way in the moment. But I'm starting to see the truth now. I have a lot of supporters, and people really want to help me and believe that I can do great things. I am learning how to talk about what I feel and want and need in a way where others can actually know me."
Valerie used to be disinterested in spiritual things. Now she reads her Bible when she can't sleep at night. Please pray for Valerie that she will see Jesus' love for her and continue to play an active part in her own growth!
