I have written before about the “All About Me," worksheets children complete in the early days of their care at the Ranch. It is a chance for them to tell us about their likes and dislikes and how we can make them feel comfortable. The worksheets are just one of hundreds of tools we use to make sure children’s voices are heard.
This week, Juliet completed her worksheet. A 13-year-old with chestnut-colored skin and green eyes, Juliet is tiny for her age. She is not the first one to speak up or jump in, but is always watching—she isn't really shy, but observant. In her years in foster care, Juliet has run away many times, and has also made several suicide attempts which led to hospitalization.
Here are some of her questions and answers.
When I grow up I want to…
“Sleep”
You will know I am sad when…
“I cry”
You will know I am mad or frustrated when…
“You won’t”
You will know I am happy when …
“I eat.”
My favorite place in the whole world is…
“My bed.”
When I am sad I would appreciate it if you…
“Give me food.”
When I am mad or frustrated I would appreciate it if you…
“Give me food.”
When I am happy I would appreciate it if you…
“Give me food.”
I am proud of myself when…
“I sleep.”
I am comfortable talking to new people when...
“They don’t touch me.”
I don’t know Juliet's trauma story. Our professionals at Dakota Boys and Girls Ranch will learn that so they can guide her healing. But, her answers are the beginning…
She told us that her safest place is to be asleep. Could that mean she has experienced the world as unsafe and overwhelming? She told us that food is of great importance to her. Could that be because food was withheld from her? She doesn’t want to be touched by strangers. Most of us don’t, but it isn’t the first answer most of us give.
So, we start this journey with little Juliet.
Please keep her and all the children and staff of Dakota Boys and Girls Ranch in your prayers.
In His love,
Joy Ryan, President/CEO
Dakota Boys and Girls Ranch
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