Sometimes, the world can seem like a dark place. We can feel all alone, even if that’s not the case. In these times and places, we may find ourselves losing hope despite our many blessings. An old proverb says, "In every cloud, there is a silver lining." If we learn to look for it often and earlier, we could use these silver linings to encourage ourselves and others. 

Psalm 121:1-2 reminds us, “I will lift up my eyes to the hills—from whence comes my help? My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth.” I firmly believe there is power in looking up.

Darkness falls 

When we choose to look up, we can see all the opportunities and blessings placed before us to succeed in life, regardless of the struggles we may be experiencing. The Buckner Family Hope Center at Reed Road in Houston is a perfect example of one of those opportunities. 

The Family Hope Center is a child-centered, family-focused place where families go to find hope, support, and empowerment in their community to reach their fullest God-given potential. This is where Tanikka Lewis, a 27-year-old African American woman, found hope. 

Lewis currently lives with her husband and four beautiful sons, who are four, five, thirteen, and fifteen years old. Lewis had a great childhood with a supportive family, but abuse and instability came into her life.

Her lifestyle and history of domestic abuse from prior relationships chipped away at her self-esteem and mental health. The relationships in her life created instability and an inability to provide for herself and her family during this period of her life.

Light shines in the darkness 

March 2019, Lewis was referred to the Buckner One-Room program through the local Child Protective Services director, Denise Crawford. 

“That was the best thing that happened to my family,” Lewis shared.

Originally, she was resistant to seeking help at Buckner because she thought her privacy would be taken away. But Buckner continued to check in and communicate the services available to her. Lewis shared that even a case manager would come around to check on her when she was having a difficult day. 

“Buckner is like my second home, but it is not just for me, but my kids as well,” she said. “One of the things I have learned is that it never hurts to try!”

Lewis has found and maintained both employment and stable housing. Overcoming homelessness is a proud moment for her and family. She and her family have been supported with resources such as food, clothing, educational classes, and other opportunities. 

“I feel supported, heard, understood, and not judged,” Lewis said. “My family coach is a big part of why I feel this way.” 

Lewis now understands the importance of work and family balance. Instead of merely working to provide material things for her children, she now understand the value of being present. Lewis has learned how to manage her responsibilities, her finances, and priorities. She now sees the power in looking up and how important spirituality and prayer are to keep her grounded through the adversities of life.

Lewis is currently enrolled at the Smithwood Medical Institute to obtain her CNA certification and become a nurse aid. 

“I’ve been putting off my education for so long, and now that I’m stable, it’s my time to focus on my education and career goals,” shared Lewis. “If I could speak to my younger self or other young women, I would say, ‘love yourself.’ I would not change anything about my story, but to love myself more and put me first.”

Her oldest son is graduating high school in three years, and Lewis intends to pave the way for his future as well as his siblings. Through what she’s learned and the hope she has found, Lewis is transforming generations of her family.

Henry Jackson is Senior Vice President of Buckner Children and Family Services and has worked for Buckner since 1989. Henry and his wife, Lee Ellen, have three children. They are members of Emmanuel Newlife Fellowship in Dallas, Texas. He enjoys fishing, exercising, and studying his Bible and is actively involved in Toastmasters International.

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Photo by Tobias Tullius on Unsplash