Day 7

Walking back toward the house, Beatrice was stunned by what had just happened. A mix of emotions remained.

“But Mom, isn’t selling your medicine how you make money to buy food?”

“That is how I used to make money to care for all of us but not anymore. I have been shown a new way. I now know God is with me, so I will never make that terrible stuff again!

“My new friends taught me new skills while I was away. I now know how to grow a healthy vegetable garden in our small space. I also learned how to raise chickens and build an oven to bake delicious bread we can sell at the local market. And if all those things don’t make us enough money right away, I will take my hoe and go work on our neighbors’ fields. I promise you: I will work hard so you are fed and can also go to school. Things will not be easy for a while, but if we all work together, guided by God, we can have a better life.”

Beatrice was thrilled, every ounce of anxiety gone. “Can we really go to school? We will help you, Mother!” she exclaimed. “We can learn how to do these things too!”

• Can you imagine being happy yet stressed at the same time? Beatrice is ovejoyed that the alcohol is gone, but nervous about where money will come from. Can you relate at all?

• Why do you think Leah is willing to suddenly sacrifice more than ever before for her children and refrain from brewing?

• Would you be excited to help Mom with more chores and work around the house and farm knowing that you also will be attending school?

• How do you think Beatrice feels about her mom right now?