Evodie is an orphan who lived with her grandmother. She is very tiny for her age which is likely due to a pygmy (Bayaka tribe) heritage or lack of nutrition growing up. The grandmother was heavily into witchcraft and would abuse this little girl. We learned that as she grew, the beatings became more severe. The leaders of the orphan care program in the Central African Republic looked for another home for her to go, but no one would take her because they were afraid of the curses the grandmother would put on them. At 12, Evodie ran away after a severe beating. We found her 3 months later with no explanation of how she survived, she just shyly stares at her feet when we ask if anyone hurt her or how she ate. We found a place at an orphanage for her to live. She started 1st grade and seems very peaceful and content there.
On my last visit, I asked if there was anything I could bring her. She very quietly said, "yes, bread, chocolate and shoes." I found a small American style grocery store and bought the very expensive bread and chocolate. The next day I took them to her and pulled her around a corner of the building to give her the chocolate alone so that the other children would not feel left out. She smiled a huge smile, said thank you and then noticed a group of children gathering around the corner of the building to see what we were doing. She smiled a big grin and held out the chocolate to share. Without taking a bite, she handed the chocolate to the other children and watched as they each broke off a piece and passed it on. She was very content to watch them it eat all. She truly has a kind and giving heart. Evodie has so little and gave away the gift she had received selflessly. What a special little lady!
Deuteronomy 15:10a-Give generously to him and do so without a grudging heart
“Give, but give until it hurts.”
― Mother Teresa
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