Victim to Victor

Victims to Victors

BY Tracy (Wilfong) LaBruyere

If you saw them today, you would undoubtedly see three teenagers interested in everyday

teenage things like sports, friends, school, and phones. But when I look at them, I still see three of the bravest kindergarteners I ever had the privilege of teaching in my decade-long career.

Long before their first day of kindergarten, I had met them, knew their story, and prayed for them. They were ‘the triplets’ who frequently attended our church whenever their mom, Jacque, visited her parents. I remember the horror we all felt hearing that Jacque was missing. Our first thoughts were of those innocent five-year-olds whose lives would be changed forever. That was in June. The family spent the rest of the summer trying to find “Justice for Jacque” and caring for three kids who had lost their amazing mom.

By August, the triplets needed to start kindergarten; and providentially, I started my first year as a kindergarten teacher at the Lutheran School. The family said Jacque wanted the triplets in a faith-filled environment because rough times were ahead. Because God has His hands in even the tiniest of details, I had already been teaching them in children’s church, and the family hoped a familiar face would be a comfort as the triplets started school.

In our area, everyone had heard what had happened; Jacque’s story was very well known. Obviously, the family wanted to protect the kids from the horror of this tragedy. The triplets only knew their “angel mommy” was gone. They were unaware of their father’s involvement, only that he was gone, too.

Before school began, I spent time with each family in our class explaining the triplets’ situation. We decided our classroom would be a safe place for them. All the parents had separate conversations with their kids to prepare them. We were united to protect and help the triplets and their family through this horrific occurrence. Many days the three children cried because they missed their mommy; they wanted her to be there for all the family events. Often, the anger and confusion in their hearts were too much, and one or the other would yell or scream. We also experienced good days when one of them would say something with childlike faith, bringing tears to my eyes. Emotionally positive days produced laughter, learning, and sharing adventurous accomplishments with their aunt and uncle. Each triplet had a distinct personality, and each one dealt with their fear, anger,

and confusion individually, but each one also possessed an unwavering faith in God. I have heard each of these children utter prayers that were wise beyond their years.

Without a doubt, they taught me more that year than I taught them.

Every time I met with their aunt, we cried together and wished Jacque could see her children and witness how well they were doing. I believe Jacque is with them. They each have demonstrated her strength and determination. Jacque only got to be their mommy for a few years, but we recognize what an incredible mom she was, evidenced by her three amazing, smart, funny, talented, and loving kids.

Today they are teenagers, learning to drive, excelling in sports and school activities, and planning their futures. They are also active in the church youth group. Anyone who knows them and their story can’t help but be amazed and thankful for what God has done in their lives. Their mommy would be very proud of her ‘triplets.’

About the writer: Tracy (Wilfong) LaBruyere is actively involved in many areas at Leadington Free Will Baptist Church. She lives in Park Hills, Missouri, with her husband, Kurt, and their only son, Malachi. Tracy is the leader of the District WAC, and she also teaches kindergarten in a small Christian school.

First day of Kindergarten