14 • FEBRUARY 2023
KIDS WHO CARE Eliza Naquin Mistie Desper “SHE SEEKS GOD FIRST IN ALL THAT SHE DOES AND HER JOYFUL HEART IS A LIGHT TO THOSE AROUND HER.” Eliza, a senior at Clinton Christian Academy, is the daughter of Travis and Melanie Naquin. During her junior year of school, she was able to be the class mentor for the K4 students. She said, “We have a really small school so it has been very important to me to be able to be a good role model for those younger than me.” She recalled how special it has been to be a part of their young lives. While mentoring the K4 class, “she displayed such grace, love, and compassion for those kids,” said Melanie. She then added, “She was able to positively impact the lives of those children and being a part of their lives for that short amount of time was a blessing to her. It made me so proud.” When she isn’t serving or cheering for her school or attending church at First Baptist of Clinton, Eliza spends her time interning at Munday Morning Acres in Terry. Munday Morning takes in horses for training and rehabilitation services. Eliza interns there weekly. She said, “I love it so much. I help clean stalls, feed them, and of course ride them. I love to learn the different ways to communicate with them.” Munday Morning Acres owner, Betsey Munday said, “Eliza is a very sweet girl who has a very positive attitude and seems to love horses. She doesn’t seem to mind the grunt work either. You almost have to chase her away from the barn when her work is over!” Melanie added, “Since the beginning of her internship at Munday Morning Acres, she has realized the joy of having a servant’s heart. Although its hard work, she does it happily and willingly. She has learned that no monetary amount can bring you the joy you get when serving others out of the pure kindness of your heart.” Eliza’s love of horses began around age 10 when she first started riding. This year, she has transitioned into competition riding. She said, “I have had so much fun doing this and being able to learn from like-minded people.” Dad, Travis, added, “It’s hard to believe how the time has flown by and my little girl has grown into such an awesome young lady. I’m so happy she gets to do what she loves…helping and spending time with horses.” Eliza’s joyful spirit is a blessing to all who know her. “Children love her. She’s silly, playful, and fun. I think she’s a role model because kids, especially young girls, see that she’s not afraid to get dirty and work hard. She is true to herself and does what she wants to do without fear of judgement,” said Melanie. Eliza also hopes to participate in mission trips with her youth group at church in the future. Travis and Melanie have instilled core values in Eliza and her two sisters, Victoria and Alexandra, by teaching them that “by letting your love and light for Jesus shine through your words and your actions, people, and especially children, will look up to and admire you and want what you have, which is Jesus in your heart.” As Eliza is closing out her high school career, she is excited to attend her last prom and walk across the stage with her peers for graduation. Excitedly looking forward to the future, she plans to attend Mississippi College and continue to help serving at Munday Morning Acres for as long as she can. “Whether horses or children, Eliza truly loves all of God’s creation unconditionally,” concluded Melanie. Hometown CLINTON • 15