Dear Gary,

Sometimes vision is blurred by tears.

As we proudly watch our graduates complete high school and take their next life step to adulthood, I find myself taking some time to reflect on their journeys.

Their childhood experiences of abuse and neglect have placed significant challenges in their young lives. When they first arrive at our Ranch, the manifestations of pain and anger are sometimes overwhelming. In the midst of these intense feelings, it seems very difficult for them to see clearly the things we want them to learn – and to experience.

Their vision must be blurred by their tears.

It seems that, until we have found the ways to help them dry their tears, they cannot see clearly. With the tears still flowing, they simply can’t see – not just the educational and life opportunities we wish for them, but most importantly they can’t see or experience the reality of our deep care for them as a circle of family members.

The miracle is that, with time, the tears dry and vision returns. As we watch our graduates leave, some may certainly remember past disappointments and hurts, but they see their future possibilities clearly, because their tears no longer blur their vision.

Thanks for providing us an opportunity to teach, to love, and to dry tears.

Your partner,

Mike