After being separated from her family during the war, Esther’s journey home was filled with fear and pain, but hope carried her forward. She dreamed of returning to her family — of being held, loved, and allowed to be a child again. She longed to leave behind the war, the loss, and the memories that haunted her, believing that home would be a place of safety and comfort.⁠
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But when Esther arrived, the place she once knew as home was gone. It had been destroyed, with no sign of life left behind. In that moment, her hope felt shattered, and grief overwhelmed her heart. Her parents had been killed during the conflict, and the only family she had left was her elderly grandmother, who welcomed her with relief and love.⁠
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The surrounding community, however, did not receive Esther the same way. Instead of compassion, she faced fear and rejection. People blamed her for their own losses and kept their distance. Esther felt more alone than ever — struggling without food, clothing, or a sense of belonging. Her heart felt torn apart, and she began to wonder if there was any place left for her.⁠
Then, something changed.⁠
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One day, a kind woman approached Esther and offered her friendship. Though hesitant at first, Esther listened as the woman invited her to join Exile International’s Peace Club. When Esther began attending, she realized she was not alone. She was welcomed, loved, and accepted just as she was. No one judged her or pushed her away. For the first time in a long while, Esther felt peace.⁠
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Through Exile International, Esther was taught how to forgive and how to heal. She was given space to share her story and people who were willing to listen. She received support with food and clothing, and later was able to return to school to learn tailoring — something she had always hoped to do.⁠
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Today, Esther is a tailor. She earns an income that helps her support both herself and her grandmother. While not everyone in her community has fully accepted her, Esther has learned to respond with love. As she says, she was taught that we love because Christ first loved us.⁠