I can’t pretend to know what life is like in the foster care system because it is something that I have never experienced. I can not imagine what it would be like to live in a home with strangers and to have endured the events that led up to that point. But, I am a strong believer in the fact that everyone deserves a family. So, when I think about those families that open their home to children in need, I am impressed and touched by the compassion. It helps me understand that the world isn’t such a bad place after all.
We all hope that children feel safe, stable, and loved, but we have to come to terms that there are many children who simply are not that lucky. They rely on “the system” and the people in it at a time when they should be concentrating on school, sports, and friends. In the midst of the chaos, we can only hope that the professionals who advocate for these children are able to offer some amount of support, care, and stability; most the time, children will get the care they need, and deserve to strive.
At 14-years-old, Sally Zheng was placed in foster care. Not surprisingly, she struggled with the transition and had her life uprooted and basically destroyed at such a critical point in growing up. During this incredibly difficult time, one man was there who helped her through and made things just a little bit easier. Police Officer Ralph Torres made a huge impact on Sally’s life and was the one person who stood next to her on the day she was placed in foster care.
They did not stay in contact, and twenty years later, Sally is a police officer herself. It is likely that Torres’ lasting impact could have helped her on that path. She had searched for Torres, hoping to thank him, but had not been successful. It’s a big world, and to find someone you just met once and then lost touch isn’t an easy task. Well, that’s what we all think at least. But, that’s all about to change.
As Sally lines up for roll call, a very special guest is waiting for her outside with a bouquet of flowers. Finally, she gets to thank the man who helped her so much all those years ago.
Watch their wonderful reunion below. Please like and share!
