At just 17-years-old, Kristopher has already experienced a lifetime of challenges and transformations. Leaving his home in Dallas, where he was one of nine siblings, he arrived at Methodist Children’s Home (MCH) in September 2022 seeking a fresh start.
Reflecting on his past, Kristopher openly discusses the circumstances that led to his decision to seek supports offered at MCH.
“I didn’t like people,” he admits. “I was angry and kept people at a distance because of how I was treated.”
Struggling both academically and behaviorally, Kristopher’s anger drove him to run away multiple times, finding temporary comfort being unhoused and forgotten until authorities located him and brought him home.
Adjusting to life at MCH came with its own challenges. Kristopher’s ongoing battle with anger and resentment led to frequent fighting and required clinical interventions to manage his feelings and outbursts. Since then, he has become more self-aware of his need for care.
“I’ve matured a lot and am more emotionally intelligent today than I was two years ago,” Kristopher explained. “I now know how to ask for what I need and that there are people here willing to listen to me.”
Kristopher’s journey is one of remarkable personal growth, transitioning from a place of strong anger to one of emotional regulation and academic focus. With a background in drum line, Kristopher anticipates getting involved in the after-school program this fall as he completes his last semester at MCH.
In addition to his personal interests and pursuits, Kristopher works at a local shoe store. His responsibilities include assisting customers, managing the cash register and taking inventory of merchandise. This job serves as a stepping stone toward his larger goals.
“Now that my schooling is back on track, I want to work on my business degree so I can be financially independent one day,” he said. “I realize I have control over my actions and my dreams and know what I need to do to set myself up for success.”
Kristopher plans to attend Tarleton State University through the McLennan Community College University Center after graduation and then go into car sales or real estate. Despite his past, Kristopher’s hope for the future is grounded in his faith and commitment to personal accountability.
“I believe in kindness because I’ve always believed in Christ,” Kristopher explained. “Despite everything that has happened in my life, my faith is what I can count on when people let me down.”
Among the many supports MCH provides residential youth, Kristopher’s case manager stands out as a significant source of stability in his continuous growth and development. Walter Rusek, case manager for residential services, speaks highly of Kristopher, emphasizing he is a motivated and self-sufficient individual.
“I’m proud of Kristopher’s growth and how he has come out of his shell since coming to MCH,” Rusek praised. “He is a man of his word and I respect him for that. I wish nothing more than for him to accomplish his goals and continue trusting his support team who care deeply about him.”
Kristopher’s advice to other young people who might be struggling or considering a place like MCH is to focus on doing what’s right.
“Do what you think is best for yourself,” he said. “If you trust your instincts and make the best of your situation, then places like MCH can offer you possibilities you didn’t know you had.”
Kristopher’s journey is a testament to the power of resilience and perspective. Coming from a place of anger and apathy, he has grown into a young man with clear goals and the determination to achieve them.
“I feel confident about my future because I know who I can trust,” Kristopher said. “I will always be flawed, but I am able to prosper because of who the Lord promises to be.”
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