A Song in his Heart
Samson* was born on December 12, 2012 – the youngest of four children. Tragically, his mother died during childbirth when Samson was only five years old. Samson’s father was an alcoholic, and although he loved his children, he was rarely home and wasted his income on drink, leaving his four young children to fend for themselves. Without proper care, daily food and the basics, every day was a struggle to survive. Samson was brought to live at City of Hope in 2018 and his life changed dramatically – for the good.
With a safe place to live, loving caregivers, and other children who became family to him, Samson thrived. No more scrounging for something to eat with the nutritious meals served or lacking the loving “parent-figure” all children need. Samson was immediately enrolled in school and began to catch up on his missed education. He did well in his studies and passed his national exams.
Samson was known by all as friendly, committed, and musically talented. When not playing soccer, Samson played the keyboard. He played every Sunday during worship time and his musical gift began to be recognized by those outside of City of Hope.
Fast forward to the summer of 2024 and this update from Pastor Brian Kirby, Pastor of Community Church, Ashburn, Virginia, shared this update when he visited City of Hope. Samson is now a 16-year-old! “When I revisited City of Hope this summer, Samson ran up to me as soon as I stepped off the bus. "Do you remember me?" he said! Of course I did! He was so impressive last year when I was there as he confidently stepped up to the keyboard and played for worship. As Samson and I talked, I reminded him that I did remember him. When he helped us set up for worship this year, I listened to him play and encouraged him that his music skills had surely grown over the past year. I then challenged him to think about how God would use these skills to reach others with His love - perhaps by leading worship, maybe teaching music, and more. Samson just smiled from ear to ear with his beautiful smile! The love of God flows out of this young man and through the music that he plays.”
