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I gave birth to my first child in 1987. I was 16. I still cry when I think about White Shield. Not because I gave my child up for adoption: we stayed together. I think the tears flow because of the way my life changed on the day of my child’s birth. White Shield was like a gateway for me into a better life. I was shown another way. Even though I struggled with Whites Shield’s strict rules, I began to see hope for my life and the life of my baby. I had run away from my family, friends, and school and was living on the road when I found out I was pregnant. White Shield gave me that moment in time to “get a grip.” I woke up on Feb. 2, 1987 to another life who has been beside me for 23 years. No, it was not easy being a teen mother. My dreams shuffled so fast that the old lifestyle had to go. This time of year brings memories of one birthday that changed the world…as I understood it. I respect White Shield for holding a space for us.
~ Esther S.
