God has a better place for me

Today's journal is about Lanh Essa's story. Lanh Essa has been living in our homes in Cambodia for 11 years. 

My name is Lanh Essa, and I am 21 years old. It is my dream to become a teacher. I am the eldest sister in a poor family of five. As a young child, I lived in a small village where my parents were farmers. My village didn't provide an opportunity to receive education, so I was sent to my aunt’s house when I was six years old.

Living with my aunt was a complicated time and was really tough for me. I was beaten by my aunt almost every day. I had to do a lot of housework before going to school, and I was ridiculed by classmates because I am a Christian.

During this time, I did not receive any care. My mistakes weren’t corrected in a healthy andloving way. I was beaten every time I made a mistake. I cried every night and told God, “I really miss my parents,” “I feel so isolated,” and asked, “Why was I separated from my parents?” Day by day, I tried to tell myself that I needed to be patient and finish my schooling. When I saw my parents, I wanted to tell them how I felt inside – how much pain and suffering I was in – but I couldn’t, and I didn’t know why. I found it hard to talk and was afraid to be who I was.

One day, my mom brought me back home. My parents were in a bad argument, and they were separated for a period of time. My parents had heard about GIBTK’s homes through a pastor who came to my village, and they decided to send me there. It was hard for me to be away from them again. I hated the feeling of being separated from my family, but I respected my parents’ decision and I understood that they wanted me to have a better future.

Living in a GIBTK home was very different from living with my aunt. I was well-treated and had so many opportunities to study English and have access to technology. My mental health improved through GIBTK’s emotional health program, and I learned that I could work through what I have been through in the past. Those emotional health lessons have helped me reframe my painful past into something that has made me strong and beautiful. 

(Essa talking to housemothers)

I have made so many breakthroughs while living in GIBTK’s homes. I believe that everyone is born for a reason, and living in GIBTK’s homes, I found that reason. No matter how life treats me, I still stand boldly. I will use my experiences to help and encourage other people who are struggling, I want them to know that they have value and purpose. 

(Essa teaching the girls English)

God has guided me to the better place that I am now in. I am on my way to achieving my dream, doing my best every day to achieve my goal. I am so very thankful to GIBTK for helping me through my past. I would not be here today without GIBTK.

With Love

Lanh Essa

"We highly appreciate you and thank you for transforming lives"

Robert Kalatschan

Giving it Back to Kids

www.gibtk.org

robert@gibtk.org