Fourteen seems too old! How can it be that this frail 43 lb. 10 year old we brought home just 3.5 years ago is now an almost 100 lb. young woman attending youth group, playing basketball and reading chapter books?! You have grown leaps and bounds in so many ways, and we are proud of you.
Your first year as a teenager had many ups and downs, but as we’ve reflected on 2018, we can see that the challenges produced great growth and fruit in all of us. We ventured through family counseling, which was painful and eye opening for all of us. It’s never easy to acknowledge our weaknesses and brokenness (mine, too!), but once we do, God can begin to bring healing, restoration and reconciliation.
Your life in Niger was not easy, and you never should have had to endure the hardship you did. But I believe God will use it in your life to give you great compassion for others, a tender heart for orphans and even a passion to share the hope you have in Africa.
Already, you are a leader that gets along well with everyone. This past week when I met with your teacher, she said, “Leila is definitely not a follower. She is just fine doing her own thing.” We loved hearing this because we often chant, “Lawrences are leaders!” You have really enjoyed participating in school sports this year. Soccer took your attention in the fall and now we are in the middle of basketball, which just might be your sport. The last 2 games you’ve scored a total of 12 points. So fun!
You also love anything at church and with the youth. This past year you started attending our large and active youth group. You went on your first mission trip, youth retreat and chose to be baptized. We are so proud of your decisions to make Jesus a priority. This coming up weekend you will volunteer with the Richmond Extreme Makeover and get to love on the kids whose moms are being pampered (they reside in safe houses and shelters normally).
Other favorites: making bracelets, staying up late and sleeping in, eating rice and pizza, making omelets, anything with Emma, movies, earning money and the colors teal and pink.
Things you don’t love: wearing your hair down in a poof, carrots, waking up early, writing, practicing piano and cold weather (unless you’re inside by the fire).
This year will be a big year for school as we make a decision for your middle school. We can do this school thing, girl! I know it’s not easy, but good things often aren’t. Keep persevering!
We love you so much,
Momma and Daddy
A friend of ours that works for The LINK shares pictures of you in Niger as she comes across them. Such a treasure to have them.
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