Michael has lived with bitterness over his absent mother, although for a long time he did not know she was mentally ill. He could not understand why they lived with grandparents, yet most children lived with their parents. Most of the time they only ate the one meal they received at Hope for Life.
When he was nine years old, Michael left home to search for employment in order to help his sister feed the family. Michael got as far as the next town. Not knowing where else to go, he eventually borrowed somebody’s phone. Surprisingly he had written Josephine’s number in his book, so they called for her to pick him up.
When his mother once left her two and four-year-old children alone in the house, Michael reported her to the chief. When his mother wanted to join an Independent (cultish) church, Michael brought her to Hope for Life so Josephine could talk her out of it.
After high school, Michael joined a six-month hospitality course. He can now buy food for his siblings, some of whom are very young. He also has reconciled with his grandparents who had separated for some time. He is the breadwinner for the family.
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