Kelly

Kelly has been coming to the PARC for about 2 years. When she first came she never stayed very long. She wouldn't work on projects, didn't want to attend classes and had a very volatile temper. As time went on and we kept calling her by name she soon started staying longer and being more cooperative. In that time she started coloring. We also worked with her on recognizing triggers for her anger and helping her to learn to go outside rather than losing her temper inside. The pictures she began to color were beautiful! Her color choices were always striking and bold. As we noticed and complimented her she began to change. Her confidence grew and she began to take a lot of pride in her work. Kelly started coming more consistently, working diligently on her projects and participating in classes. She was a different person.

We have always loved Kelly so much. A few weeks ago it was apparent that she didn't want to have anything to do with Missy or I. She would only interact with the males on our staff. When I spoke to her she lost her temper ' BIG TIME' and we had to ask her to leave. This continued for the next several weeks. She would come in seemingly fine. Then we would have a conversation about her behavior the last time she was there, and at the mention of mine or Missy's name she would just blow up and storm out. Much like she did in the past.

Last week I was sitting at one of the tables when Kelly walked in and came straight to my table. She began to apologize  and explain that she had had some triggers. She, was suffering from PTSD, but had worked through them and was okay now. "I'm really sorry Miss Valerie. Can i stay.?" My heart swelled as I reached over and touched her hand. I looked at her and said, "Of course you can. You know that we love you Kelly, so much." Kelly paused and then laid her hand on top of mine and said, "I love you, too." Then the most amazing thing happened. With  tears in her eyes, Kelly reached over the table and hugged me! Oh, that was a moment.

Sometimes it is hard to be at the PARC. Sometimes we experience a lot of anger and frustration. But at the PARC you never run out of chances. Kelly is just one of the reminders of the power of that. Yes, sometimes I get weary. We all do. But, I am so honored to get to be here. I am so very grateful that God lets me be a part of experiencing how His love can change a person. The power of His love helps them feel seen, valued, able to love, and be loved. I am grateful for the PARC.