After over a decade of wanting to come to Vietnam with GIBTK, my dad, Daniel Barnes, and I finally made it here. I had some expectations as we have been following Robert’s journey for many years.
Prior to our first visit to the Father’s House, I was nervous that seeing young women facing challenging life situations would make me sad, yet my expectations were almost instantly proved wrong. Upon arriving at the house, a feeling of joy, love and uplifting energy overwhelmed me – smiling mothers, children and staff greeted us. We weren't just in a house, we were in a home – a home that provides shelter just as much as it does acceptance.
A young new mother trustfully handed me her beautiful two month old baby – the youngest child I have ever held. He was at peace and so was his mother. My heart melted. I held the sleeping baby and thought, “this is good, this is what it's about”. It isn't about the situations that got them here, it is about the present and the happiness and positive impact being made on these young, hopeful lives.
We had a pizza party at Legacy 1 with kids and young adults from Lighthouse, Hal’s Home, Carmela Home and Mary’s Home. Once again, we were greeted with smiles and cheerful greetings. Young girls and boys swarmed me and lined up for hugs. We visited classrooms and observed studying students. The students were prepping for exams in physics, math, and English. Their assignment sheets left me puzzled even in English class – what's a preposition again?
We spoke with bright young girls and boys about their aspirations to work in IT, the medical field, marketing, social work and more. It's easy to forget the challenges that these children have had to face when so much joy, potential and kindness radiates from each and every one of them. Even though I had just met them, I was already so proud of them.
We played games and had a talent show. They opened up to us and welcomed us into their world with open arms. Over the past several days I have had the pleasure of getting to know the kids better as the initial shyness has subsided. I feel hopeful for them and look forward to following their journeys.
We have also had the privilege of getting to know the GIBTK staff. Impressed would be an understatement – organized, respectful and always on top of it – this team rocks! They have been so forthcoming with their knowledge and time. I feel incredibly fortunate to get to know them and see their hard work in action.
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