By Carrie Saathoff
I am sitting here in the airport on my way back home, reflecting on the inspiring and exhausting week we just had with the Utz Pan youth. The days were non-stop, cramming in as much as we could. On top of that, I was staying in a two-bedroom cabin with four giggly girls who sang and danced to Shakira and old-timey Christmas music until after midnight. I laid awake smiling, listening through the wall. (Then, put a pillow over my head.)
What a joy to hear them having a chance to be teenagers – the heavy weight of their lives lifted from their shoulders for a short time. I learned a bit about what some of them are dealing with and it’s heart-breaking. No one their age should carry those burdens. Their resilience, ability to choose joy, and capacity to love is breathtaking. They are a reason to have hope for this world.
