"Half the Sky" in Sao Paulo, Brazil
Last night I spoke with the woman and dear friend who worked for our family for 8 years while living in Brazil. I could tell in her voice, something was "off," she sounded distraught. It was a voice I had learned to detect in the eight years she came and went from our home on a daily basis. Tragedy, misfortune seemed to wave it's wand her way more often than not. Thankfully, the hard knocks were balanced with a supply of the basics like a steady job, amazing, loving children, a solid marriage and strong extended family relationships that make life easier for someone living at her socio-economic level.
I immediately asked what had happened and she quietly assured me we would talk about it when I arrived to Brazil later this week. I probed as I am known to do. She broke down on the phone and told me that one of the local drug dealers in her neighborhood has taken to her beautiful teenage daughter. He is persistently visiting the house and insisting the family allow him them "namorar." (to date) The neighbors have said "ele nao presta" which means he's a good for nothing SOB.
Imagine the fear for the daughter, for my friend, for their family. This is a dangerous young man who I'm certain wields guns when necessary, it is told he uses and traffics drugs. My friend has a humble, simple, law abiding family. They want for nothing but work, a future for their children and health.
My friend fears their refusal will ignite in him the desire to conquer by any means. She is trying to wrap her head around solutions to insure and preserve the safety of her daughter.
My immediate reaction is to consider what I can do to help. I'm thankful we are on our way to Brazil because we can sit down with her family and help them to come up with possible solutions. The most immediate would be to send her away to their family who lives in another state.
We will utilize the creative forces within our realm of influence to help the family and I guess I'm writing this to ask for your praying power to join me on behalf of my friend. I believe there are evil forces which seek to destroy and destruct BUT I believe the power of good and love is far superior and powerful. Would you please consider leaning into the power of love and light on behalf of my friend's family?
Consider reading "Half the Sky" to learn more about the realities and plight of women and young ladies around the world who are considered possessions to be taken and stolen when necessary. There are men in the world who are driven by unhealthy passions who do not follow a rule of law. I have every reason to believe this young man will stop at nothing to "win" the "object" of his desire.
Thank you!
Deus abencoe!