Thank You Letter from "Maria"

I come from the state of Oaxaca in Mexico. My life has seen pleasant and not so pleasant moments, as I have made good and poor choices. It has become part of my learning in life and a source of strength. I entered the US illegally, alone and cleaned houses with my brother’s girlfriend, I was pregnant and chose to place the baby for adoption. I wanted my child to have a family that I could not offer at the time. I believe God guided me to Martha and Mary House where I again encountered Him, and regained hope and faith. I am grateful for the care from Sarah and Anna, and relationships with others awaiting the birth of their child. I enjoyed Church on Sundays-there was a wonderful feeling of peace, love, and something unexplainable. When my son Neiko was born his adoptive parents were at his birth and took him home. Thanks be to God, he visited me several times. The time had come for me to live a NORMAL life, but for an illegal what could be normal? I decided to return to Mexico so that someday I could return legally. Thank God “Mom” Sarah put me in contact with the wonderful Cosby family at Project Mexico. They took me into their home and their hearts and I was able to make it through the separation from Martha and Mary House and my son. With them I continued in the Orthodox Church and came to St. Innocent Orphanage where we attend Church. With the encouragement of the Cosby family and a scholarship from Martha and Mary House, I began study at the CIDH University in Playas de Tijuana. My life dream was be a teacher, but God redirected me to Family Psychology. What influenced this change was my life experience, my desire to know more deeply the human experience and to contribute my small share to society.

At first I felt intimidated going back to school. Thank God I passed the first semester with a 9.7 grade point average, which was very encouraging and a reminder that it is never too late to start again. I was required to have 16 hours of therapy per semester which was a form of accountability. The second semester was harder but I passed with a 9.3 grade point average. Now in the third semester, I am grateful to Martha and Mary House and the Order of Saint Ignatius of Antioch who make it possible for me to realize my dream. I hope to complete my Bachelor’s degree and go on for a Master’s, a Doctorate, and the professional certificates necessary to serve in my areas of interest which are children, adolescents, children with special needs, abused women, and family wellness. Only God knows where and when He will use me. I have no more words to express my gratitude, MAY GOD BLESS YOU.

I am happy working with my wonderful family of St. Innocent Orphanage. I am responsible for the boys and teens, whom I love very much, along with a great team of co-workers. I am growing in the Orthodox Church and hope to soon become part of the Church through Chrismation.

Now you have learned a bit of my life and dream which you are helping to make a reality. I pray that with your continued support and the blessing of God, I will be able to reach my goal. THANK YOU! Maria. - Advent 2007 -