­(Some years ago…)

When I arrived at the area for our Mobile Medical Clinic in the mountains, I was not prepared for the elderly father with his young child. I could tell that the child had malnutrition, and I sat him on my lap. I looked at the bald-headed boy with the swollen belly and skinny arms.  His face and body were swollen, and his arms lethargic.

I asked his father, “How old is he?” “About fifteen or more,” he said. I couldn’t believe him, so I began talking to the little bald-headed boy. He said, “I’m 15; I went to school once. But the kids beat me up, and I had to quit in first grade. But a child without an education lives in a world of darkness.” I was amazed at this small boy, aged 15, and his wisdom!

We brought Wilner back to our place to get care for his malnutrition. It took years for him to even “look” healthy!

He started school “late,” so he is still in high school. He works part-time doing lawn care on the property! His favorite thing is church! His nickname is “Pistache” (peanut!) His goal is to become a journalist (a well-known journalist!)

He has never had a girlfriend, “that we know of!” And, when his Poppie asks him if he has one, he says, “No! They just want your money!!” Ha! He is such an unusual guy, and we all love “Pistache!”

Sherry