Not good-bye but see you later

When a resident family has been at Hope Alive for a year or more, it’s so hard to say good-bye. The resident moms and children, staff and volunteers become a family and when one moves out – for whatever reason – it leaves a gaping hole and an empty place in our hearts.

This week, we experienced these emotions as a young mother and her 2 year-old graduated from the Hope Alive residential program. She’s excited to be moving out on her own for the very first time while at the same time she struggles with wanting to unpack and move back in where she feels comfortable, loved, and accepted. But we all agree this move is the right step for them.

This young family has accomplished so much in their year and a half at Hope Alive. Mom completed a year of college courses and is ready to start her third semester. She’s maintained long-term employment. She’s managing her money well and has learned the difference between wants and needs. She’s a loving and caring mother. She’s completed her counseling. Her daughter has grown into a happy and social little preschooler who makes us all laugh. And most importantly, mom not only feels loved, but has learned to love and trust others.

As we said our tearful good-byes this week, she said she couldn’t adequately express the difference Hope Alive has made in their lives. She said it’s not about the house or the services they received, but it's about the love and care they've experienced. She left knowing they have a family here and caring hearts that are always available – we are just a phone call (or text message) away. They will continue in our after care phase and receive case management and resources (as needed) for the coming year.

As she reminded us before leaving, it’s not really "good-bye", but “see you later”. We won’t experience their smiles and laughter that brighten our days, but they are always in our hearts, minds, and prayers and she’s already planning their first “visit” to Hope Alive. We couldn't be more proud!

Until next week …

Sue Oehmig
Founder and Executive Director