Healing Through Connection: Bewar's Journey to Hope

FIELD UPDATE

Being closely integrated with our village and tent community, we have worked closely with the local orphanage for a few years now and have become a second family to them, as strong and trusting relationships were forged with the orphanage staff, who allowed their precious children to come to the stables on a weekly basis.

One of their Yezidi boys, Bewar, now 13 years old, carried much sadness, along with confusion and anger. I remember how, rain or shine, he wore a hoodie in which he hid. He sat alone, apart, always with his back to us, yet always alert, never relaxed. He was locked in his own world. Oscar, our dog, sensed his state of mind and was on constant alert. He was never relaxed around him. With time, patience, and much love, Bewar changed. The orphanage staff sent us their thanks today, sharing something of his story, which we now share with you.

"The world is indeed full of peril, and in it there are many dark places; but still there is much that is fair, and though in all lands love is now mingled with grief, it grows perhaps the greater.” -J.R.R. Tolkien, The Fellowship of the Ring

At the Basheer Orphanage, we have cared for many children over the years. Each child has their own story; each one is difficult to hear, and each one leaves a mark on our hearts. Among our stories, there is the story of Bewar, a child who is deeply special to everyone who has met him.

Bewar is known in Kurdistan, known to media channels, known in the towns, and known in the cities. His story made the headlines when he was very young. Everyone who has come through our doors has a picture with Bewar. Yet, he remembers nothing and no one.

Due to the severe trauma he experienced very early in his life, his memory is fragile and his past appears erased to him. Bewar suffered extreme neglect, fear, physical and psychological abuse, being isolated for long periods of time, and being deprived of safety and care.

One example of his suffering is when his stepmother deliberately poured a teapot of boiling tea over his ear, causing severe burns. Once taken in by the first orphanage, he underwent two reconstructive surgeries, of which he also has no recollection. The medical team said that he needs one more surgery, but as his body and psyche were both so fragile, he should wait until he is 18.

When the Zaxo Orphanage found him, he was alone and destitute. They provided the urgent medical treatment and surgeries needed, took care of his health, and surrounded him with compassion. Even now when we visit that orphanage, the staff and children remember him with love. He, however, has no recollection at all. His trauma is that deep. Watching him struggle to remember is heartbreaking.

About seven years ago, the founder of our orphanage brought Bewar to us, and he has remained with us. We continue to support him educationally, emotionally, and with all his many needs. Despite all our efforts, his post-traumatic symptoms still surface as he grows older. He struggles with anger, sudden sadness, and recurring dreams of traumatic events from his past. He studies hard but forgets easily. He also endures bullying at school, which adds to his pain. We work every day to strengthen his confidence and help him build resilience in a world that has not always been kind to him.

The greatest source of his healing has been the time he has spent with the Springs of Hope Foundation, in particular with Horses for Hope at the stables and animal sanctuary. For the past three years, he and all our children have visited the stables weekly, spending a happy afternoon there. Every visit excites him as much as the first. During exam periods, the thought of missing a visit deeply saddens him. The animals, especially the horses, bring him a deep peace. He loves Taj very much and has formed a quiet relationship with them all.

Drawing has become his safe space, and when he feels overwhelmed, he expresses himself through art—often sitting alone and sketching during his visits. These moments give him calm, dignity, and joy. Thanks to the kindness and dedication of the SOHF team, he feels less alone.

He is learning to trust himself and to trust other people again, and through the stables, he sees that the world can still hold gentle places where he can find himself and belong. For a child who has seen so much darkness, the light given by Springs of Hope matters more than words can express.

Our deepest gratitude goes to all the staff at the Springs of Hope Foundation. Your love and care are not just an activity or a program; they are a lifeline. From all of us, and especially from Bewar, thank you for standing beside him and helping him rediscover hope.

The role and impact of SOHF on all our children is clear. You help them heal and give them hope for their future. Together, we remain committed to allowing these children to grow with us, to be a part of their journey, and to guide them as family to reach their dreams.

Thank you all. God bless you.

-The Management of the Basheer Korea Orphanage