2010 Annual Report - This is Hagar

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My life in Full Color
Phuong’s Story
Eight months ago, I couldn’t see my life in colour. It was
dull. Worthless. I was numb. It was hard for me to love my
family. Impossible to love myself.
When I started attending Hagar’s programs in Vietnam,
something changed. I learned that other women have
stories too. I listened to them. And I knew I wasn’t alone. I
could look at each woman in the shelter and see them as
my sisters. We were walking this journey together.
I am still learning about myself. I love to paint. Because
when I paint, I feel my heart growing bigger. I see myself
sharing more love to everyone around me.
“Life is not always pink.”
That’s what we say in Vietnam. Because life isn’t always
happy and carefree. I know this is true. Because I have
been there. I know that life isn’t perfect. But we have to
find a way to stand on our own two feet and be open to
what life offers us.
Even my family sees the change in me. They say that I
am different now. I know I am. I was even promoted as a
barista at Joma Bakery Café after working for just three
months!
Eight months ago, my life was dull and grey. But now I see
the colours. And I believe I can experience life in all of its
fullness.