After working past all the behaviors and emotions we finally made it to the rides. It was a challenge to get there but it was worth it to see the glee of childhood in their eyes. Smiles from ear to ear. Knowing they have experienced nothing but trials and tribulations for much of their childhood, it was a gift to see them experience the joys of childhood without being burdened by life’s burdens.

On that particular day, I witnessed a young girl getting to be her age. She had always seemed beyond her years. She displayed the street smarts of a 16-year-old, the language of a 19-year-old, and the independence of a 25-year-old. However, on that day, she was simply a carefree 9-year-old. A significant moment for me, because though it was hard getting them there once we made it it was so worthwhile. And I saw that helping children heal from their past is not an easy task. It requires a significant investment of time and energy, and it can be exhausting at times, but I discovered that there is no better investment!