Application Season/Twins

As I write this, application season has begun. And with it comes one of the heaviest parts of this work; choosing which of the applicants you and I will send to college . . . and choosing which young women do not receive help from SOS.

So this is a longer post than normal. But I want to tell you a story that shows you why your generosity is so valuable . . .

As I begin reading this year’s applications, I find myself thinking not only about the futures unfolding on the pages in front of me, but about the ones that still live quietly in my mind.

There are decisions that never really leave you; ones you think time will soften, but somehow never does.

Even years later, those decisions, and the stories behind them, return, unresolved.

Five years ago, two girls sat across from me, twins who were working full-time to help keep their family afloat while trying to plan for college. They were capable, determined, and exhausted. I wanted to help them so badly.

I didn’t say yes.

Even though it was the right decision at the time, I still think about them. I wonder where they are now and how their story unfolded.

This season matters deeply. When we say yes to a Scholar, we are committing to show up fully and to walk alongside her through the hard parts, not just the hopeful beginnings.

Your support makes that kind of care possible. It allows us to honor our promises and to support Scholars deeply, not superficially.

As I read this year’s applications, I feel excitement for what’s possible. And I also wonder which ones will stay with me years from now? Which stories will I still be carrying quietly, long after the decisions are made?

I don’t know what became of those twins.

But I do know this. Because of you, there are girls whose stories will be different.

Thank you for being part of that promise.

With gratitude,

Ginny