Camouflage trousers

Joy Ryan, President/CEO

“Write something that will bring them joy. If you have a grandparent you love, imagine you are making this for them.”

Deaconess Kelly Bristow, Spiritual Life Coordinator on the Minot Campus of Dakota Boys and Girls Ranch, truly carries the light of Christ with her. To talk to Deaconess Kelly is to have your day brightened, regardless of the weight you are carrying in your heart.

Through her actions and words, she shows children at the Ranch that in spite of all their hurts and challenges, they can brighten someone else’s day. She finds service opportunities that open doors for these kids—kids who have had to focus on their own survival—to think of others.

During Lent, Deaconess Kelly asked the children in her Spiritual Life groups to help her make Easter cards for seniors living in long-term care facilities. She asked them to think specifically about people who were room-bound and not able to join in group worship or Easter celebrations. She asked them to make something that would bring them a smile and some joy.

I saw the cards laid out on a table before she delivered them. Some of our kids are great artists, developing poets, or able to quote scripture. My favorite card, though, took a different approach. It starts with solid humor, and ends with sincerity. In my mind I see it being delivered to some sassy older gentleman with a little mischief in his eyes. It exudes joy.

On the front:

“Happy Easter”

Inside, the card reads:

“I went to buy some camouflage trousers the other day but I couldn’t find any.”

Then:

“If number 2 pencils are so popular, why are they still number two?”

And the wrap-up:

“Never forget about the people around you. You’re: loved, never forgotten, forgiven, cared for, and a great person.”

A child full of pain encouraging an elder who feels unseen. That is truly an exchange that carries His light.

Please keep the children and staff of Dakota Boys and Girls Ranch in your prayers as we pursue our mission “to help at-risk children and their families succeed in the name of Christ.”