“May I please speak with Queen?”
“Who is this?” I grumbled in my head, assuming it was either a bill collector or some other type of solicitor. I wasn’t getting many phone calls these days, or doing much talking, for that matter. I was so focused on my relationship with God and raising Kenya that I had forgotten much else even existed.
“My name is Lorine. Do you have a few moments to talk?”
The woman on the other end was fast-paced and yet organized. I was leaving after Bible study heading to my car, trying to put a name to her face while she was speaking.
“I’m sorry, where do I know you from?” I asked inquisitively while shoving my Bible and purse onto the seat and putting my seat belt on. I had Kenya on my mind. I had been at work since six that morning and had Bible study right after, so I wanted to get to him so we could wrap up homework, bath, dinner, reading … not to mention my chores—washing clothes, folding, washing dishes, and getting clothes ready. My brain was occupied with my to-do list and I had little space for this conversation.
Lorine interrupted my thoughts when she explained that she received my contact information from Kenya’s principal. She went on to say that she contacted schools and asked them for referrals of parents who come to school and advocate for their children. “Really, I asked for the names of the parents that make them uncomfortable when they come,” she confessed with a laugh.
She went on to explain that the principal at Kenya’s school listed my name and that she was looking for parents as such in order to put together a fellowship that educates and teaches parents how to advocate for children and youth in Oakland schools. She explained that the group would meet on Thursday nights and would provide dinner and childcare.
I thanked God and then thanked her for the opportunity. I eagerly accepted the invitation.