By Carla Villarán

I found a family where I least expected it,
Among people confused and in need of hope,
Amid people who can’t see the light they radiate,
With laughter hidden behind many nights of tears.

They are a lighthouse in the sea, and they don’t realize it,
Their stories inspire me,
They are calm amid the storm.

I am guided through them with their testimonies laden with wise experience,
And they believe it is I who encourage them with my eloquence.
But I am only a mirror of the Eternal’s Grace
A product of His mercy,
A reflection of the Architect,
A mere fragile vessel,
A tool, and clay in the Master’s hands.

The only One who is Worthy of Glory, Honor and to whom I owe myself completely.

I found a family, and I feel at home,
I go to them, and they are my safe place amid the daily journey.
They are a treasure, and they don’t know it,
The fact that they ignore it makes them more valuable. They are pearls; they are diamonds.

Together we hold each other in this turbulent sea called Life,
We’re not in the same boat,
But we have the same Captain and Guide.
Forces forsake most of us,
But we do not fear the darkness or the fog,
For our tank of faith is full,
Brimming with the hope of Christ who is the Word.

I embrace them in my prayers,
In whatever way I am allowed to do so.
And blessed technology
That made it easy for us to get to know each other.
To bring us closer despite the distance
So long that separates us,
Of those hours of difference
Roads,
Kilometers,
And that great ocean.

I found a family,
Where I never imagined.
A group, my tribe
Whatever you want to call it.
They are my home,
My campfire,
My safe place,
My Fresh Hope
That Christ through them gives me.