On this Holy Week two long-time residents have been preparing to move out of the House. While it is sad for me to think about Charis House without these two residents and their beautiful children, it is a perfectly timed Easter reminder of the opportunity of a fresh start each of us has been given.

Melissa has lived at the House ever since I first arrived. She is around my age and has an adorably chubby little boy named Jacum. Over the course of working a few Friday nights, I have encountered situations with Melissa that will stick out in my memories of the place. Not all those memories are positive, but each has a place in making her journey even more amazing.

Just before Christmas I witnessed Melissa hit an all time low after returning to the House overdosed, confused, and with Jacum. I looked after the baby as we waited for Jacum to be collected by his rarely seen father. As Jacum left and Melissa was sent to the hospital, I stood with the other Staff member and we both just wanted to sit and cry. Her story had seemed to be going well.

While that story seems sad, after I reflect back I'm able to see God's hand in so many parts. For Melissa to get Jacum back, she gave up alcohol. After that night, she made a decision to not drink, and she's done it. For almost four months she's been completely clean and while she wouldn't admit it yet, I've seen a much happier Melissa. While she is excitedly decorating her new flat, we have also had a lot of talks about her fear of moving away from a place that offers so much support to each woman. I know it is a good move for her, and I pray that the support she's received at the House has helped to empower her and allow her to embrace a fresh life and new opportunities.

The other women to move on is named Trudi. Trudi has a five-year old daughter named Christina. Their story is one of domestic abuse and constantly running. I won't share her past because it's the way in which she's so quickly re-adjusted and positively added to the House dynamics that makes her such a special person. Trudi tells it like it is. I have personally learned from her ability to be open and honest in most all situations. She has been the resident to initiate Sunday dinners each week, to start dance parties on a Saturday night, and to help the children make cakes after school. I have loved her enthusiasm and the way she has been able to use her story to help many of the women at the House who need direct advice from one so close to many similar situations.

Christina has been a wonderful experience for me too. She came in as a five year old who talked as if she was thirty. Because she had never interacted with other children, her behavior has been amazing to watch as she's begun to just play and imagine.

As I listen to both of these women share details of their new houses with smiles and excitement, I have seen the ultimate dream of Hazel as she she opened the doors to Charis House. To allow women an opportunity to just come and live with a family that supports and tries their hardest to love. For these women to build up the confidence to know that they are a beloved child of God who is capable of living a life of meaning and happiness. I know that Trudi and Melissa will leave still doubting a God, but I also know that I see Him when I look into their excited smiles and I know that He will follow them as they hopefully began anew.

Wishing each of you a blessed Easter season,
Aubrey