In this week of Thanksgiving - it is easier to count our blessings and be mindful of the important things in life we most appreciate! Thanksgiving weekend in the US is where families gather and feast, pray, play games, relax, and reconnect - occasionally a little arguing as well - but that is also a family tradition. It is not lost on me celebrating this holiday is a luxury - and one that bring great joys to many!
We have so much opportunity in this country to achieve our dreams, and that is one thing I am most thankful for this year - the ability to dream up a way to help and the fact that many of you jumped right on board with our crazy idea! Our numbers are small but our influence has been great! We have not made a huge difference to many people so far, but the people that we have impacted has been remarkable!
- Many children will now be able to go to school all year!
- An alley of 25 people have access to clean, safe, sanitary, and running water.
- Garbage service and electricity has been restored at 2 locations.
- A small orange cart business is thriving
- The tortilla shop can sell more tortillas
- Pride shining in these families h(e)arts is an impact beyond measure
The real impact that I see is not in the work that we have done in Guatemala - to me, that is the bonus work. The real impact is the change in people's h(e)arts here at home. The willingness of families here to sponsor families that are 1000s of miles away because of a connection to our family.
I see - Generosity that is overwhelming at times, children here understanding that life outside the bubble exists, the notion that "every penny counts" and it does! Impacting people's h(e)arts and their vision for making a difference in this world is the true impact that I value. By giving - we have learned much more than we have provided and for that I am truly grateful and humbled...