From Our RHK Executive Director: Seeing the Angels

Recently, I had the opportunity to attend a leadership conference, and the speaker spoke about Michelangelo. He talked about his beautiful sculpture of David. He mentioned that the block of marble this sculpture was made from was ignored for a decade by many artists because they thought it was not a quality piece of marble. But, when Michelangelo saw the marble, he said, “I saw the angel in the marble and carved until I set him free.” He saw something the other artists didn’t. He had a different view. He saw something deeper.

Just like our God, 1 Samuel 16:7 states that God looks at the heart. God judges based on the internal character, motives, and spiritual integrity rather than external appearance or human stature. We as humans focus on outward, superficial qualities.

We took 26 teens to winter camp, and during our small group time, one of our teen boys asked if he could share. He is one of the boys who, when you look at him, seems like he does not pay much attention. You would think there is not much depth. Then it happened…he shared. I wish every one of you had been in the room with us.

He was articulate. He shared his life. He shared his thoughts, his pain, fears, feelings, and why he comes to RHK. After he shared, others dared to share. When it was over, one of our leaders and two other boys stayed behind with him and had deep conversations together. Bonding happened. Relationships happened.

The next morning at breakfast, I had the privilege of being at the same table with them. The one who shared pointed to the other two and said “Last night we became brothers.” I must tell you, the joy on his face was priceless. He was that piece of marble that was overlooked.

Another amazing moment at camp was when one of our newer girls was welcomed by the long-standing girls. The newer girl has kept herself away from er smile and laugh said it all. The marble was chiseled away, and an angel was released.

It took Michelangelo three years to chisel away at that one piece of marble to make the remarkable statue of David. He didn’t give up. He was persistent. He saw the angel waiting to be released inside.

We at RHK don’t give up either. We have our ups and downs with the kids. No different than when we raise our own kids. But, we see the “angels” waiting to be released inside. We don’t give up - BUT it does take time. It takes patience. It takes prayer. It takes the Lord’s guidance.

Our volunteers do an amazing job seeing the angels inside. Just like Michelangelo, it takes time. Some-times it takes years to get through. Sometimes it takes moments. Sometimes it takes chiseling away at the hard exterior of a child who has their guard up. Sometimes it takes only a smile and a listening ear. I have seen each situation. I can tell you, whether it is quick or long, it is always worth the wait.

If you would like to be like Michelangelo and release some inner angels, call Tarah, our volunteer coordinator, at 815-962-5067.

Blessings,

Dee Lacny, Executive Director, Rock House Kids