Story
Every child has the right to be educated and to pursue their dreams with their effort. However, the painful war shattered many children’s hopes, spreading fear and insecurity. The country also saw the closure of numerous schools. Jean is one of the children who, despite these challenges, was allowed to learn at our center after his school closed.
Jean is a student in the afternoon classes. After his previous school closed, he enrolled at the center to continue his education. At the beginning of the year, the teachers noticed sadness in his eyes. He missed his old school and friends, but the teachers quickly helped him adjust by introducing him to his new classmates. Over time, Jean became more comfortable and happy, with a shy smile always on his face. When asked about what he liked most about school, he said, “I enjoy my time very much. Every day, I eagerly wait to come to school and learn how to read and write.”
In a conversation with his mother, she shared that she had noticed a positive change in Jean’s behavior. He now enjoys school a lot and reviews his lessons every day. She expressed her gratitude to God for the opportunity her son has received. She added: “My son studies by himself every day and reviews all the lessons he took at school.”
During a Bible class, the teacher asked the students, “What do you know about Christmas?” Jean confidently raised his hand and answered, “Christmas is my favorite season; God showed his love through the birth of his son, Jesus, who was born in Bethlehem two thousand years ago in a stable because Mary couldn’t find another place to give birth.” Everyone raised a round of applause for him because of his answer. The teacher also asked him what he learned from Jesus, and he responded, “I learned to love everyone around me and to avoid doing bad things that would make Jesus sad. I don’t want him to be sad because of me.”
From a shy, sad boy in his first days at school, Jean transformed into a confident and strong student who wanted all his friends to know about Jesus.
“The only dreams impossible to reach are the ones you never pursue.” Jean understands that with God’s presence in his life, success would be impossible. What is most remarkable about him is how he shares his faith with his friends without fear.
