MCH helps Doug bring life into focus

As Doug peered under the hood of the car that served as training ground for his high school's auto mechanics class, all he saw was a mass of metal. But as he positioned his camera to shoot images of the engine for an assignment in his photography class, his attention was drawn to the intricate design and details of the wires, belts and hoses.

Through the process, Doug became aware of the impact of photography.

"At first, it was just an ugly engine but I was able to make it look interesting," he said. "I started to think about what it takes to make good pictures."

Just as photography opened Doug's eyes to the small details of the world around him, time at Methodist Children's Home has allowed Doug to look at his own life from a different perspective.

Prior to coming to the Home at age 13, Doug admits his life was out of focus. He paid little attention to others and his attitude and behavior led to serious problems at home and school. Strained relationships with his parents, a lack of interest in schoolwork and minor criminal activity took their toll on Doug and his family.

"I was convinced that I didn't need anyone," he said. "I was only concerned about Doug."

His actions led to a short stay in juvenile detention where he faced the possibility of serving additional time. The judge gave Doug an option: he could either accept placement at Methodist Children's Home or remain in jail.

"I was happy with the decision to come here," he said. "I had visited the Home and knew it was a lot better than the other option."

Upon his arrival, the reality of living in a home unit with a group of other teenagers forced Doug to work on his interpersonal skills. He believes the residential nature of the Home's program of care has served him well.

"I've learned to be more tolerant of others," he said. "I was forced to relate to others because I live with them. You can't live here and be anti-social for very long."

Few residents have received as comprehensive a look at the Home's residential program as Doug, who has lived in basic care, structured care and at the Boys Ranch. In each program, he tested the limits of childcare staff. When he was transferred to the Ranch as a "last option" in 2001, he realized the importance of accepting responsibility for his decisions.

"The Ranch was the best pro-gram for me," said Doug, who credits homeparents Bill and Sherry Files for much of his success. "At first, I was not crazy about going into that environment but I guess it's what I needed."

Although things went well at the Ranch, Doug requested a transfer back to the main campus so he could attend public school. Today, he is an 11th grader at Waco High School, where he excels academically and plays varsity football. He is a member of SWACADAS, an anti-drug organization at the Home, and will participate in an internship program through the Perkins School of Theology at Southern Methodist University this summer.

Whether it's on the main campus, Boys Ranch or at school, Doug has developed the ability to establish strong relationships with his peers. During his time at the Home, Doug has built a special rapport with the Ethiopian residents, who are helping him learn their native language. Staff members at the Home admire Doug's willingness to form friendships with people from all walks of life.

"Doug is very much a people person," said Candice Brannan, who serves as Doug's social worker. "He has the ability to meet people where they are."

It's an ability Methodist Children's Home has helped Doug bring into focus.

This article appeared in the February 2004 issue of Sunshine. Methodist Children's Home, Waco, Texas