Sufferer Foster Care Survivor And Other Trauma

[a3a2]

Sam,

Thank you for introducing me to Matthew West. I find listening to particular artist to be very healing. I ordered the CD last night, and have been listening to his songs off the computer this morning. Having just come through a rough spot, I am finding them to be quite helpful.

Have you ever listened to Sarah Groves? She is a favourite of mine.

 

[SilentSam]

Have you ever listened to Sarah Groves? She is a favourite of mine.

Yes I also enjoy Sarah Groves songs.

 

[SilentSam]

Here is a guy who is an inspiration to me.

"This is my life-rap" is the story of motivational speaker Derek Clark that he wrote as an at risk teenager growing up in foster care. Derek states, "I wrote about my life in foster care and being abandoned by my parents. I took the pain of my past and turned it into a powerful song. Never Give Up Hope! Problems are temporary. Never let your past infect your future. This is your life, you have the power to define it!"
Derek knows first-hand the power of attitude in coping with adversity and overcoming hardship. At five years of age, Derek's mother and stepfather (his biological father was in prison) turned him over to the California foster care system, where he would spend the next thirteen years of his life, contending with rejection, humiliation, emotional distress and overwhelming anxiety. Yet through it all, Derek never gave up, and went from victim to victor by defying the artificial limitations imposed on him. He literally took a disadvantage in life and turned it into an advantage. His remarkable story is one of resilience and redemption, from his personal to professional life.

Derek Clarke-This Is My Life

 

[SilentSam]

For as long as I can remember my faith and trust in God's love has given me strength to endure what has happened to me. I continue to rely on God's love and mercy to help me stay whole in mind, body and soul.

Even if my father and mother abandon me, the LORD will take care of me. Psalm 27:10
"Can a mother forget the baby at her breast and have no compassion on the child she has borne? Though she may forget, I will not forget you! Isaiah 49:15

Matthew West-More

 

[SilentSam]

This is a place where you no longer have to be "silent" as there is no one here to harm you, but a community of people that understand.

Thanks Debbie. There are some things that are hard for me to talk about, other things are a little easier to talk about. The things I refer to as other trauma happened in addition to being in foster care but the two are related in a major way. I'm reluctant to talk about those things because I've found that people don't believe me when I talk about it. But then, I probably wouldn't believe it either had it not happened to me and other members of my family. At least I have witnesses.

 

[a3a2]

You will be believed here, but take you time.

 

[MeWobbles]

It's an interesting world growing up in the system that is designed to protect children. I did not live in foster care but instead institutions and on the streets. It's a very damaging experience. I'm glad you have your faith.

 

[TwoDee2ThreeDee]

Hi, Sam

I grew up in foster care, too. It's not a fun thing to have your life placed in other people's hands who have no stake in your well being.

 

[SilentSam]

You Are Loved (Don't Give Up)-Josh Groban