There once lived a little girl named Rose. When she was five years old, she was removed from her home for severe neglect and possible emotional abuse. Little Rose did not have much going for her. She struggled with trust issues, lacked confidence, and did not carry a sense of belonging.
She was placed in a home with an older couple who had years of experience raising children, both their biological and countless foster kids. The first thing they did when they made sure Rose was situated and comfortable in their home, was take her across the street to meet the neighbors.
The neighbors had a daughter named Caitlin who was also five years old. At first Rose was hesitant and untrusting of her new friend, but after a couple weeks, she began to show both inward and outward signs of healing from her trauma. She became more confident and trusting, her resilience became greater and more visible, and most importantly, she became happy. She spent time with Caitlin nearly every day, and this friendship did more for her than any doctor or counselor could ever do.
Friendship is important to every child, trauma or no trauma. But to kids like Rose, it can be a lifesaver.