Zimei, the ex-resident of Children’s Home Care, had been a “street kid”. She rode her bike daily, without a life direction and would go home only when exhausted. She was grateful for staying at Evangel Children’s Home (ECH) where she learned about rules, procedures, responsibility, and life planning.
Zimei’s parents passed away one after another, worse still, she faced the aging out from children home at the age of 18 that she had to live on her own. She did not dwell on self-pity. Though she has to earn a living and support herself for studies, she will work hard to live up to those who love her as there are still many kind-hearted supporters around. With an optimistic personality, she boosts positive energy to set off for a new life.
Growth in Adversity
Due to the poor self-care ability of her parents, the new born Zimei was unable to be taken care off. She was arranged to live in a foster home till the age of 10. According to Zimei’s description, she was under strict supervision from the foster auntie at the foster family. She had been punished to kneel and be beaten as long as it did not suit her or for no reason. But whenever there was Social Welfare Department staff’s home visit, foster auntie became gentle, would manage household work, prepare greeting snacks. After the staff was left, she turned back to her original style. Zimei‘s parents had limitations on abilities, and found it hard to voice out for her. In the absence of love and care, hardly could she know what family was all about.
New Discovery
One year after leaving the foster family, she moved into ECH. At ECH, children generally resist being regulated; however, Zimei was willing to accept, so that she could feel loved.
Her living experience and potentials was a discovery after she moved in. Zimei was surprised to know that shower gel could be “foamed” and “scented”; she never tried these products because her parents did not know how to take care of her. With funding solicited from ECH, she had the opportunity to learn piano to actualize her music talent, and she took less than half a year to pass the fifth-level piano exam. Tutor also helped explore her artistic potential, and guided her on visual arts studies and career planning.
Accompanying Transition
Parents’ passing away one after another at upper secondary school had been a double blow to her. What was more, she had to take DSE exam. She was helpless. Thankfully, with the support from all folks at ECH, she could finally overcome. Zimei would like to thank specially “Chung”, the house parent, who always resonated with her that she could always feel at ease; “Loretta”, the counselor, who guided her like a mother, planned the way out and regulated the emotions with her. Bearing the childhood trauma, it is grateful that there are people around to care for, rely on, and to accompany at the transitional stage. She could then muster up the courage to face the rugged path of life ahead.
Transforming Life
Zimei always stays calm, overcomes difficulties with courage, and gains strength in the process of transformation.
