Dear Unnamed Young Lady in South Carolina,

Before I say anything, I want you to know that you have been in my thoughts and prayers since I read about your story. 

My heart breaks knowing that you’ve recently lost your mother and grandmother and now you’re in foster care. Being in a new place, new school with unfamilar people, with such life changing events happening have to be taking a toll on you emotionally and mentally. 

I am so sorry for the incident that happened to you at school. I’m sorry that you had to endure such physical pain, embarrassment and demeaning treatment.

I know that there were events that led up to this incident but in no way did your behavior warrant such abuse.

I wish someone would have taken a moment to talk to you. To pray with you and for you. To hug you…to show empathy to someone whose life has drastically changed.

I wish someone would have looked past outward appearances and tried to forge a relationship with someone who probably feels as if she has no one. I wish someone would have respected you even if you didn’t know how to return the favor at that very moment.

Above all, I hope that this incident doesn’t harden your heart. I know that this will probably be etched into your memory forever but I hope that this tragedy doesn’t color your life negatively forever. 

I’ve always heard and believed that “our misery is our ministry”. I pray that the things that have happened to you in your first 17 years of life help you to relate to and make a positive impact in the lives of others. 

I pray that this horrible act doesn’t cause you to view everyone through the eyes of hurt and hate….and that you grow into a successful, loving, hope and faith filled, vision driven Woman. 

All of God’s Best,  

Stacy Boyd