behind the makeup...

Behind the makeup and the smile what is really there?  There are days when I have a smile on face but my heart is heavy.  Proverbs 13:14 assures me that I am not the only one who does this.

We are currently in the midst of a seminar on Aftercare for Survivors of Human Trafficking.  One of the myths about those who are being prostituted is that "they enjoy it or they wouldn't do it".  I cannot imagine anyone who would take delight in being used, violated, and demeaned day after day.  A woman being sexually exploited may be the one smiling and laughing to court her customers but that doesn't mean that she is not torn up and grieving her situation in life.

Even in laughter the heart may ache,

and rejoicing may end in grief. 

Proverbs 13:14

The clown in the photo is standing in front of the Eiffel Tower.  She seemed to be happy.  I sure was happy and absolutely filled with gratitude for each and every moment of our time in Paris.  I didn't ask this street performer if she was genuinely happy.  But, never again will I assume that a smile and a laugh are sign of a joy-filled life.  

May we let go of whatever mask we are wearing...

and may we find wholeness and compassion in Him.

And may those being exploited discover a way of escape

and find safety and comfort in His loving arms.

from righteous anger to action!

Today Tom and I participated in Day 1 of a Three Day seminar on Aftercare for Survivors of Human Trafficking.  Our brains are filled and our hearts are motivated to glean from the expertise of others so that we might be more effective here in Belize.  

We are so grateful for all who feel called to learn and grow and help others as well.  It definitely takes a village working together to provide support and stability to those in need.  Keep us all in your prayers...we have two more long days ahead!!

66 yr old man with a 17 yr old girlfriend...

John McAfee of McAfee Virus Scan had his Tower Hill Estate in the Orange Walk district here in Belize raided by the Gang Suppression Unit (GSU).  The GSU claims there were rumors of illegal activity on the premises.  McAfee contends the raid was a political retaliation for him refusing to donate funds to the political party that is currently in power here in Belize.  As I read the details of this story this line stood out to me:

Present on the premises at the time were John McAfee, his girlfriend who is a 17 year old Belizean minor, and five security guards.

The article goes on about an unlicensed weapon on the premises, evidence of antibiotics being manufactured on the premises without a licence and that only two of McAfee's security guards are licensed to act as security guards.  Three security guards were arrested  and charged with providing security services without a license, McAfee was initially detained for the unlicensed weapon and there is an ongoing investigation into that matter.  And a decision will be made about charges regarding the antibiotics after the forensic analysis becomes available.

Nothing further is mentioned about the 17 year old girlfriend.  I find this appalling.  A man of his age, his wealth, and his prestige with a minor for a girlfriend.  The legal age of consent for sexual activity in Belize for a female is 16.  So "she has her age" as they say here.  But, to me...all I can think of...is sexual exploitation. I wonder if her family is benefiting financially from her relationship with him?  Who introduced them? And what do they have in common? I cannot imagine a 17 year old girl providing any intellectual stimulation for a 66 year old man.

 I cannot stop shaking my head in disbelief...my heart truly hurts for this girl.