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I have been trying to keep my arms wide, and eyes wide for a while. Trying to be more observant, more forward thinking, and hopefully more empathetic and not stuck in data/words/budgets/etc.
I was reminded recently that I still have a ways to go. Not that I was getting cocky, no way. But, during some regular sponsor communication with a Milk Project sponsor, I shared a picture Maria had sent me. In her notes, she pointed out that this older boy was wearing pink flip flops because he had no shoes and was wearing his mom's to come to the project. I had not noticed. What was worse, upon including this sobering note to the sponsor, who was much more eagle eyed...she responded that he was wearing those same sandals in another picture posted to social media two weeks prior. I missed that too. Sometimes I see smiling kids, being fed, participating in activities, and doing homework...and forget a truth that I heard again today from Stephen Colbert..."everyone is suffering." Trying to see where someone else is, how they are suffering, whether physical, emotional or spiritual...is not always easy. It takes time and purposefulness. I have found, ultimately, it takes a Higher Power. But we will still fail. And we also suffer. We all share in that. Sometimes the best way to move forward is to find people with whom we can share those failures and struggles, and the faith that enables us to get back up, as well as lift each other up.
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I really have been meaning to blog. I suppose you could call this an apology. During our June and July with groups, timing was difficult. But I was thinking about it. It is usually a good release for me. But when I thought about writing something down...I had a combination of writer's block and frustration with my own emotions. It was good while it lasted, our time with groups this year as a family. Five groups...so much they accomplished. I could post pictures of the physical work done, but more impressive, and longer lasting still in my mind is what cannot be seen that they did...prayers, encouragement, growth, and more. Now, I settle (he writes...chuckling) into getting back into administration mode...pushing us forward as a mission to look to the next few months, and already next year, and beyond. There is a lot to do after the groups left...most of which we can now do because they were here. Several groups blessed us with extra funds to keep things going in construction, we have group funds now to complete the mission house remodel, and as well some much needed funds to continue the road work in Sampedrana. But the dreaming, the planning, the communicating, and trying to help one another as we work towards our common goals, definitely takes time, prayer, and patience. I'll admit, being back here full time is very comfortable, and an easier work load really than being in the US trying to work there and work here, but it also brings things much closer to home, if you will. That was one advantage of being in the US...being able to remain more emotionally detached. I say advantage, but really that too has its pluses and minuses. It might make it easier on me, but that is not necessarily better.
I don't know who wrote that, and I am not sure I agree with all of it, but it is definitely a call to action I find exhorting...physically and spiritually. Now, let's go dream...and act.
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