For on whatever place one has fallen, on that place one must find support and rise again. St. Augustine, De vera Relgione, XXIV, 45.
Almost four years after promising a teenage orphan in rural Zambia that the people I loved would do everything they could to help her, Agness Kapesa's third, and perhaps final attempt, at entry into the United States met with the same response as the first two. She was greeted by the Consular Officer Malia Heroux, who recognized Agness and dismissed her as not meeting the qualifications designated by U.S. law for entry into the country.
Many of the best men and women I know would have been unable to deal with this rejection. Agness once again noted the "will of God" at work in her life. The generosity of you who read this blog is not bounded by the same arbitrary pettiness that leads consul officers to write statements like "unfortunately, all countries are not created equal" in the literature passed out to applicants for VISA. In the face of this seemingly crushing callousness, Agness focused on the love and sentiment that has echoed so loudly in her life from across the Atlantic. Confronted with arrogance and indifference of some, she knows of the care and love of others, and in this balance her life remains. She worked hard this year, and a girl who believes and fights like her doesn't finish the day with tears and whining, but rather a resolute turn to what comes next. The evening prayer for the day had within it a reading that seemed fitting, "May you be made strong with all the strength which comes from his glorious might, so that you may be able to endure everything with patience." Her sponsors in America will ensure that her education continues here, and as Meghan aptly quipped, "Now our families will just have to come here to meet you."
In Christ,
Luke
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9 comments:
I'm so sorry for Agness and you guys :( What a terrible blow. You are all in our thoughts and prayers.
I am so sad to hear the news. You are all in my prayers and close in my heart! lots of love...
I am so sorry to hear about Agnes's plight.....so much as been done to help her... and I am sure she would have much to learn and teach in return.. All of you are in my thoughts and prayers..... enjoy the rest of your stay.. and return home safely to us.... I love you both.... Grandma S
don't really know what to say....I guess just assure Agness of continued love, prayers and support. With her desire and spirit, she will climb mountains, no matter the obstacles. you cant keep down that kind of love
-Dan
We are so sorry for Agness. We were all looking forward to meeting her. We will all continue to pray for her. We hope that some day soon we will be able to vist her.
PS- Meg Camp Rock was not nearly as good as HSM. We love you both and miss you.
Love Always,
Jenn, Scott, Justin, Kyle and Evan
It is so unfortunate that a country that was built on immigrants trying to make a better life, is so quick to refuse someone who is trying to to do the same today. As sad as I am for Agnes I know that God has other plans for her and she will succeed even in the face of this setback. Love you both dearly, God-bless and stay safe!!
Eleasha
I cried when I read this sad news. Agness' amazing perserverance and hope should be an inspiration to many people, though.
My thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
I don't even know what to say...only that you have my prayers and that my heart breaks along with yours. I simply don't understand the injustice. It is good that she will continue her education in Zambia....Maurizio told me you stopped by Mazabuka...I can't wait to talk to both of you about it. Love Lauren.
I don't even know what to say...only that you have my prayers and that my heart breaks along with yours. I simply don't understand the injustice. It is good that she will continue her education in Zambia....Maurizio told me you stopped by Mazabuka...I can't wait to talk to both of you about it. Love Lauren.
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