Catching Up

Corlissa Newbern, Age 16
a.k.a "Rissa Ru" a.k.a
"Ru" a.k.a "Ruby"
Many of you have commented or written to me about how much in my life has changed since we last talked. I've gotten tons of questions about Corlissa. Therefore, I just thought I'd write a little about that situation. Luckily, she does not get online very often, hence she will probably be naive to this posting and be saved from the mortification of having her life on the world wide web. Furthermore, she has big dreams of modeling some day. Perhaps having her mug shot and life story posted all over my blog will serve as her "big break" and I will ultimately be forgiven for this heinous parental violation.

I began considering the idea of foster-parenting last year. One of the most difficult aspects of teaching is sitting by idly as so many kids with promise lose ground as a result of circumstances that they did not create. I just grew disgusted and tired of watching these kids struggle to stay focused and keep on the right path in spite of their tumultuous home lives. The opportunity to take Ru in came at just after I had decided to officially begin the process of applying to be a foster parent.

I don't think either of us knew how long she would be here, and let me tell you, we have had to iron out some serious kinks (Take my advice, folks....If you're going to take in a 16 year-old girl, pick an ugly one. I think her beauty is the bane of my existence). Despite the struggles we've had, I am certain of one thing: My life is no longer just about me. She has taught me a great deal about myself, the nature of God, and has made me a heck of a lot less selfish in the process. While the whole thing might seem stifling to some of you, words cannot express how much freedom it has brought me. Ironic, huh?

Anyway... Corlissa's a sophomore and about to turn 17. She is a good kid. She's managed to stay out of trouble, works hard in school, and has dreams for her life. She's got a nice boyfriend (I even had a hand in setting them up), and I believe she's finally experiencing some true peace and happiness in her life. Watching this transformation has been one of the greatest gifts I've been given.

We both keep in close contact with Corlissa's family. Come to think of it, I'm pretty sure we've both gained a new family. Let me tell you, though, being inducted into the world of black backyard barbecues has seriously thrown a wrench in my weight-loss schemes. I am whiter than snow, but am welcomed with open arms in "the hood." I've probably never been safer in my life.... some very influential people have my back.

Anyway... I'm hoping this satisfies your curiosity. Karl Black once told me that his world was turned upside down and suddenly filled with purpose beyond his comprehension the instant Braden was born. I couldn't fathom it at the time, but I think I'm beginning to understand a little. There's a line in an Indigo Girls song that says "the closer I'm bound in love to you, the closer I am to free" I'm not necessarily recommending you all go out and get pregnant or take in a transient teenager or anything, but it's a feeling I think everyone should experience at some point in their lifetime.

(N.B.L Ruby)