And yet, so much of what I have experienced so far has been more than I expected. For example, the dedication of the staff here at IJM is remarkable. It is amazing to see individuals from such different disciplines- investigators, lawyers, social workers, communication specialists, administrative workers- bringing the gifts and talents God has given them in a unified effort to make a difference in one of the largest problems on the planet: human trafficking. These people face a great deal of frustration in their day-to-day work- seemingly endless court delays, tip-offs prior to operations, gross lack of resources available for survivors- frustrations that appear avoidable, yet they are reality of life here. Each morning we meet together for collective prayer before we begin the day and it’s no wonder why… the work being done is utterly dependent on God.
Unfortunately, I would also say the immensity of the issue of human trafficking and sexual exploitation has also been more than I expected. I recently had the unique experience of visiting a brothel in one of the red light areas; an event I continue to process. As you might guess, it is absolutely a different world, one where poverty is rampant and the value of human life is not highly regarded. Walking the narrow halls in the brothel, I was shocked at the normality of life there: children toddling around, people chatting, washing clothes, cooking. It was as if the selling of someone’s body was as normal as selling vegetables…simply a way of life, a livelihood. And this is when the problem just feels huge...untouchable, even.
And yet, I have gleaned some much-needed tangible hope during my visits to the group home for minored girls who have been rescued out of the brothels. I am convinced that in the end, all it takes is one girl. If we can make a difference in the life of one girl- to hold back the hand of her oppressors and give her an opportunity for healing and a future- then we have certainly touched the problem.
As for a specific work update, the end of July is quickly approaching, and with it, my deadline for the Protocol Project! Thank you for your prayers… the Sister whom I am working with has been incredibly gracious and we are slowly but surely making our way through standards of care for the group home. I ask for your continued prayer as there is still a significant amount of conversation, brainstorming, and editing to be done in the next ten days or so!
Please also pray for my and my colleagues’ physical health during the monsoon season, which is a particularly difficult time of year to remain well.
As always, please feel free to contact me with any prayer requests, updates, etc. I appreciate your support and prayers so much; I honestly can’t thank you enough.
love, ann
