24 Years Later...

In October of 1986 a baby boy was born. 5 years later his father died of AIDS. In 1999 his mother died of AIDS and in 2002 his stepfather died of AIDS. Yes the baby boy was born 'positive' meaning he tested positive for the HIV virus. This is not an uncommon story in sub-saharan Africa, but Teddy is an uncommon young man!

First - he was not told of his status until late into his teens. It is a miracle that he is still alive and relatively healthy! I believe God has plans for this young man's life and it seems that Teddy is already fulfilling those plans.

This photo was taken at my home during one of his many visits...
...Teddy works nearby at the Coptic Hospital in their Voluntary Counseling and Testing center or VCT. That's where people go to get tested for the virus and receive ongoing counseling to learn how to 'live positively'. At the moment he is working as a volunteer with the hopes of being hired on as a paid employee. He has heard 'rumors' that it may happen soon, so that is one of my prayers - that he can be paid for what he loves and does so well.

Teddy is wise beyond his years. He explained to me that when a child loses his parents at an early age, the mind works overtime to compensate for the loss of the safety of having parents. In Teddy's case that has translated to feeling very comfortable with older people (like me!) and having friends who are 6 to 10 years his senior.

For me, what is most remarkable about Teddy is his spiritual wisdom. He has an amazing ability to help his clients see their lives from God's perspective. Invariably they will change directions in their thinking so that as they leave, they are amazed at how easy he is to be vulnerable with. He is told repeatedly how safe it feels to share with him even the most difficult facts of their lives. He thinks that is because he is so willing to share the hard truth about the events in his life. He values transparency and accountability - all too rare in this culture!

His goals include writing a book about his life - he plans to title it "24 Years Later", hence the title of this blog entry. On the way to writing his book he wants to complete his education. His dream is to enter university to obtain a degree in Psychology...a worthy goal to help him in his life's purpose, which is to help other people - especially those infected with the deadly AIDS virus.
He smiles often, laughs easily and encourages naturally. I am in prayer about his educational goals and how God might want to use me to help him achieve them. Please let me know if God is compelling you to help this young man, in any way...if you feel led to pray for him and/or if you feel like you would want to contribute financially.

Teddy is just one of many amazing people I have the privilege to call my friend.