DANNER FARMS
MENTORING PROJECT
The Back Page by Barbara Taylor Goodenough
It’s hard to believe that another year has come to an end. Though things are a little slower over the winter, there will still be boys. There will be dogs and activities. Most of all, there will be the hope that this new year will be filled with joy for all of the Danner Farms’ family.
With the help and support of our community, friends, family, mentors, Board, and most of all with God’s grace, we will patiently continue to lay a foundation of hope and love for each boy that He has entrusted to us. We will lay that foundation step by step, brick by brick. We will persevere with the bright hope of God’s love.
Though not certain, legend has it that the above quote was spoken by Emperor Hadrian to the people of Rome after a devastating fire. Considered one of the good emperors, Hadrian wanted to give hope and encouragement to the citizens of Rome. He knew they were faced with a daunting task, and he wanted them to focus on handling that task one step at a time. It would take planning, patience, cooperation, dedication, and perseverance. Above all else, perseverance. There would be no quick fix.
Here at Danner Farms, we have been witness to many daunting situations. We have seen families ravaged by alcohol and drugs; by abandonment, death, abuse, and more. We have seen children and family members struggle to find answers and help. We have seen mothers and grandmothers cry. Children have cried. I will long remember the boy who plaintively asked, “Is it okay if I cry?”
I wish we had a quick fix. Danner Farms is not a quick fix. Danner Farms was created with careful and thoughtful planning. The challenges of the boys require an abundance of patience. We overcome obstacles with cooperation from mentors, teachers, social workers, donors, and faithful volunteers. We are dedicated to each child and every family. And, even if a situation seems to be without hope, we persevere. There is, after all, always hope.
Be strong and take heart, all you who hope in the Lord.
Psalm 31:24
"Brick by brick, my fellow citizens, brick by brick."
Jim & Barbara
