Breaking the Chains of Violence

I have been teaching English to a very precious lady who got really brave, went outside her culture and turned her husband in for domestic violence. He has been sent back to Mexico and she and her children are in a safe house now trying to start over, learn American ways and survive!

I was asked to come and get her ready to go to ESL school by teaching her basic English. In her culture, their language is ORAL so there are no writing skills that she was taught in Mexico. She had to learn how to recognize letters, numbers and read. So, for the last 6 months, we have been plugging away each Friday morning, learning the alphabet, sounds, numbers and some life skills. I have gotten to know their family very well and it has been a challenge because the kids are soooooo hungry for affection. The ages range from 5 months to 12 years. When I walk in the apartment, the youngest ones are up on my lap, wanting attention and trying to steal the show.

Momma has been doing really well. She is learning quickly and gets around pretty well buying groceries. We go pay bills some Fridays, get groceries and other errands. I am anticipating her getting up to speed by September of next year so that she can attend class with other people and "talk" and "practice" more English.

Seeing her step up and do something very radical from her culture is so amazing. She and her family started attending church with my family and we go and get them every Sunday. She sits there and listens to our pastor even though she can't really understand his words, she does understand love and care. I am proud of some of the people in our church. They are really trying hard to reach out to her and make her feel welcome despite the language barrier! They are loving on her kids(who are extremely polite and adorable!)and helping them feel a part.

Most Mixteco women here in Montgomery do not know English! They are at home, isolated and overwhelmed. A lot of times, they are taken advantage of in stores, etc. They are open to learning but we need some teachers!

Would you be willing to open a door for them and teach? Contact Lisa Rose at lrose@mgmbaptist.org OR call 334-271-6794 for more information.