Lauro is 15

Lauro turned 15 the other day - I really can't believe that I met him when he was yet 11. We had a very private celebration at Maureen's house, just he, she and I..and some Tres Leches cake. Lauro is not into public displays of thoughtfulness but he very much needs attention and acknowledgement - this was perfect for him.

Lauro is an enigma, he is at once sweet and affectionate, compassionate and generous yet also easily angered, jealous, rebellious, and knows how to hold a grudge. His life has been one of rejection; his mother repeatedly abandoned them through the course of his childhood, leaving the family to beg for food from other families in the community while she shacked up with other men in Laureles. She finally left them for good when Lauro was 9, moving to the other side of the country with another man. Lauro then was a raised by his father until he got a new wife who in due time let it be known that she had no interest in raising another woman's sons. Lauro's father then essentially chased he and his brother Checho out of the house and left them to fend for themselves. And that's what he does, he works from 6 in the morning until 9 at night selling and counting and loading bananas - there is no thought for studying, nor plans for such; there is no time. I worry for Lauro - he's willful, long's to be a grown man, to experience the grown-up life and everything that comes with it. I love this kid, want the best for him and see so much potential in his life; and I see the path he's headed down. Pray for young and still quite innocent Lauro.