Over the summer I read a number of books about the FLDS and polygamy: Escape by Carolyn Jessop, The Prophet's Prey by Sam Brower, and Stolen Innocence by Elisa Walls. I really enjoyed the first two a lot and would recommend them both if you want to learn more about the sick and twisted world of the FLDS. I have tried to explain the concept of polygamy to my kids - not an easy task at ages 8 and 4.
My friend Tonia sends out emails from time to time with needs of families she is helping. This time it was one that I could help with immediately! The kids she's housing were wanting some bikes and scooters to ride. We happened to have an extra scooter in the basement that wasn't being used very often. I was happy to see it bring a smile to another child's face. These kids haven't grown up with toys, books, music, tv, etc in their community. Warren Jeffs saw to it to take everything away from them. According to Tonia the latest is that they aren't even allowed to laugh anymore!
Both kids took it upon themselves to find some toys of their own to donate to these kids. Kendall found two baby dolls to give to the two little girls while Riley went through his matchbox cars and picked out a bunch for the 3 older boys his age.
On the way to Tonia's house, Kendall kept asking why these kids didn't have any toys. Who was the "Bad Guy" who took them away? When we got to her house to drop off the scooter and bag of toys, we were lucky enough to have the pleasure of giving these items to the family themselves. Kendall got to give each little girl (ages 3 & 5) a doll and see them smile from ear to ear and hug their new doll as if it was a golden treasure! The boys dove right into the bag of cars and divided them up amongst themselves and started playing right away. I got to meet mom and dad (they got kicked out of Short Creek) and dad was just so surprised by the love of others. They have been brainwashed to believe that everyone outside of their church is evil and wants to bring them harm. I was happy that we could show them the love of Jesus - just by bringing such small items to them. Dad kept thanking me. Mom was a sweet thing and was heading out that afternoon for a "make over." She was ready to shed her FLDS attire and wear a pair of jeans! A big step for sure!
What a great experience for her to meet them - to put a face with the story. She got back in the car and said "Mom, we need to find them more stuff!" My heart was full of joy that my kids were able to put someone else's needs above their own and want to share their toys out of the goodness of their hearts. We have talked for a few months now about spending less on ourselves at Christmas this year and more on gifts for kids like these who have absolutely nothing instead. Thankfully Tonia said she is planning to set up the giving tree at church this Christmas again. You can pick a family or item off the tree to purchase for a polygamist family in need.
If any of you feel led to get involved in this ministry, let me know and I can put you in touch with Tonia. I am happy to get your name on the email list or forward needs in case you think you might be able to help out. These families are often in need of rentals, jobs, clothing, furniture, bikes, cars, food, toiletries, etc. Many times they leave their communities with nothing but the clothes on their backs if they are escaping and don't have the skills to find jobs, etc. Many of the children have never even been in school.
For more information, go to Holding Out Help
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