20 April 2007
14 March 2007
Remember That Time We Got Tear-Gassed In Nicaragua?
I was visiting my friend, Jana, in Nicaragua (Nick too...but he was taking a nap). So, Jana and I go to the market to get some fruit. As we're about to leave...me carrying a watermelon and her carrying a backpack and canvas bag full of fruit...my eyes start stinging, and I get the taste of fireworks (you know when you can taste sparklers in the air) in my mouth. And at first I think "Oh we're passing a barbecue," or something weird. But then I notice everybody around is walking, or running, away. So...we try to get away from it. First we walk into a little salon place at the market. But it's all more or less open air, so they are trying to get away from this stinging feeling too (I'm crying and spitting). Worst thing, was seeing a little kid crying--not understanding (not that the rest of us understood). So, we kept walking. Bear in mind, I'm still carrying a big watermelon. And just walk, hoping to get away from this substance...whatever it was. We finally get to some back exit of the market and are away from the "horror." But we still don't necessarily know what it is. And I spit the whole way back, and we just hope it wasn't some sort of chemical agent and worry about how far it spread and we worry about poor Nick, locked in the house, cause it's gated and we took the keys. Finally we make it back, Nick's fine (still asleep, I think) and we turn on the radio and call Jana's boss, who has a tv, to see if we can find out anything. Later Jana's boss calls back and tells us two guys were arrested for throwing cans of tear gas into the market. Oh and I just remembered, that right before this happened at the market, we witnessed an altercation between a drunk guy and his girlfriend...we were trying to walk around this situation. Big sigh---we're not going to die. Still spitting (like a camel).
22 February 2007
I See You
I see you in a girl who hugs her friend so long it seems they haven't seen each other in years,
when it's been less than a day.
I see you in a boy who makes his mom a gift that's not amazing,
but they both love it just the same.
I see you in a tree--it's silhouette;
I hear you in the breeze, rustling the leaves;
I know you in the quiet moments--in the words I read, the words you breathe.
I hear you in a friend who calls each day just to say, "Hey"--or stops by unannounced on a rainy day.
I hear you in a song and then another and another and in words spoken in prayer.
I see you in a tree--it's silhouette;
I hear you in the breeze, rustling the leaves;
I know you in the quiet moments--in the words I read, the words you breathe.
I long to know you better--you know me best.
I know you because you are always with me--you're the only one who never leaves--you're always right next to me, in front & behind me.
I see you in a tree--it's silhouette;
I hear you in the breeze, rustling the leaves;
I know you in the quiet moments--in the words I read, the words you breathe.
I see you.
when it's been less than a day.
I see you in a boy who makes his mom a gift that's not amazing,
but they both love it just the same.
I see you in a tree--it's silhouette;
I hear you in the breeze, rustling the leaves;
I know you in the quiet moments--in the words I read, the words you breathe.
I hear you in a friend who calls each day just to say, "Hey"--or stops by unannounced on a rainy day.
I hear you in a song and then another and another and in words spoken in prayer.
I see you in a tree--it's silhouette;
I hear you in the breeze, rustling the leaves;
I know you in the quiet moments--in the words I read, the words you breathe.
I long to know you better--you know me best.
I know you because you are always with me--you're the only one who never leaves--you're always right next to me, in front & behind me.
I see you in a tree--it's silhouette;
I hear you in the breeze, rustling the leaves;
I know you in the quiet moments--in the words I read, the words you breathe.
I see you.
13 November 2006
Hundreds and HUNDREDS of Candles
So, last Sunday (the 5th), I turned the big 2-5! It was kind of low-key. I was in L.A. for a conference, so I got together with a few friends for dinner the night before and had lunch and dinner with some new friends on my actual birthday. It was great. I'd really been looking forward to 25. I just KNOW it's going to be wonderful. Well, the day before my b-day, I come to find out that one of the presenters at the conference, informed his audience that you are no longer cool after 24 (to teenagers). I was mortified (not really--I found it kind of amusing, and have since been told that this does not apply to me)! The second blow came when my 5 year-old nephew was reminiscing (this weekend) about helping me blow out my "hundreds and hundreds of candles!!!!" I have to face it, I'm getting old. And I LIKE IT!!!!
28 August 2006
22 August 2006
Need a Job?
I had some circumstances, today, that required me to drive my mom to work this morning. As I drove back to the main street, I noticed a few gatherings of hispanic men along the road. It was a normal occurrence, but I had totally forgotten about it.These men weren't causing trouble, but they were talking to each other and looked expectantly at EVERY car that passed them.
I used to drive down this street fairly often, and sometimes you would see some waiting into the afternoon. These men simply wait for somebody to hire them for the day, or even for a few hours. I've always wished I had a job to give them. I expect they are hard workers.
Today, I prayed as I passed them that God would provide for them and their families. And I thanked God for the desire they had in their hearts. As I continued on my way, I thought about a scene from Cinderella Man, set during the depression, where James Braddock (played by Russell Crowe), must stand and wait, every morning, to be picked (or not picked) to work that day. Every man standing there needed work, desired worked, and tried, how they could, to find work. But unfortunately, there weren't enough jobs to go around.
I feel a bit like I'm babbling, but felt like writing some of my thoughts from my head.
Thank you Jesus, for day laborers, for those who give them work and for the patient attitude they have in waiting on your provisions. May you bless them immensely. Amen.
01 June 2006
Out of the Mouths of Babes
Yesterday, I went to my parents' house for dinner with my sisters and their families. My sister, Heidi, and her family just arrived back into the area after a couple years in Alaska, a couple years in Oregon and the last year in Alabama (just across the border from Florida). Her husband's in the Coast Guard. Following is a conversation I heard between my niece, Cheyanne, who is six and her cousin--my nephew--Samuel, who is almost five.
Samuel: I'm almost done, Madison--I mean Cheyanne.
Cheyanne: Who's Madison?
Samuel: Madison is my friend from Alabama.
Cheyanne: What's Alabama?
Samuel: Alabama's the city I used to live in, but now we're moving to California--Actually I'm in California.
Cheyanne: Oh. OK!
I loved it.
This reminded me of an entry my mom showed me from her journal from when we moved out to California from Illinois. I was almost three. On the way here, we visited my grandparents in Kansas, my grandma asked me if I was moving to California. I said, "Yeah, but we're moving to Petaluma first." (Obviously because we were moving to Petaluma, California)
Fun stuff. Kids are great!
Samuel: I'm almost done, Madison--I mean Cheyanne.
Cheyanne: Who's Madison?
Samuel: Madison is my friend from Alabama.
Cheyanne: What's Alabama?
Samuel: Alabama's the city I used to live in, but now we're moving to California--Actually I'm in California.
Cheyanne: Oh. OK!
I loved it.
This reminded me of an entry my mom showed me from her journal from when we moved out to California from Illinois. I was almost three. On the way here, we visited my grandparents in Kansas, my grandma asked me if I was moving to California. I said, "Yeah, but we're moving to Petaluma first." (Obviously because we were moving to Petaluma, California)
Fun stuff. Kids are great!
14 May 2006
I Know You, Do You Know Me?
I feel like I make a great effort to get to know, and REALLY know the people I am around regularly. And even, some I only see from time to time. But I came to a realization tonight. I don't think they know me as well as I know them. I'm trying to figure out if it is because they don't want to work at or try to get to know me, or if I just put on that good of a front. I wonder. I think I NEED somebody to know me.
07 May 2006
Just another way God uses Starbucks!
No matter how evil you or I think Starbucks is, God uses it for AMAZING things!Tonight, my Girls Bible Study girls and I were set to head to the Claire's Outlet, but called and found that it was closed. So, I suggested we go to Starbucks and use the giftcard I just received.
Well, the first thing God does is makes the total for 5 drinks EXACTLY $15--exactly the amount of the giftcard. How likely is that? For the next 20-30 minutes we just hung out, chatted, played checkers, spelled words we will never use in regular life (you know Starbucks is promoting a movie about the National Spelling Bee). Just before we were going to leave, the girl who had been sitting behind us, apparently doing schoolwork--a girl who smiled at me on our way in--said hello and asked me if she knew me from somewhere. I didn't recognize her right away, but she asked me if I had worked at Mt. Gilead. I told her "No, but I've been there." She then asked me my name and I asked her hers. Upon hearing her name, I knew immediately where we knew each other from. We had attended Vacation Bible School at Hessel Church in Sebastopol in junior high. That was over 10 YEARS AGO and she recognized me.
I am certain God was a part of this. She asked if we were a Bible Study and then asked where we go to church. She said she had just returned (two weeks ago) to her walk with Christ and was looking for a church in Petaluma. She will be coming next Sunday. God puts us exactly where he wants us, when he wants us to be there. I never ever expected him to use me/us in Starbucks today how he did. Honestly, I felt a little guilty about going to Starbucks instead of holding Bible Study and discussing the Bible. Instead, God had us living like Christ in Starbucks for one girl who needed to make a connection to a local church. God is ALWAYS in control (even when I think I am).
Thank you, Jesus, for using me in your timing and not mine.
20 April 2006
Cambodia, Here I Come (again)
My Dear Friends & Family,
I’m so excited to have the opportunity this summer to return to
Last year, I was blessed and amazed by the outpouring of support you showed. Your prayers, kind words and financial support are eternally appreciated. It’s hard to put down in words how much of an impact you have made. After an entire day of plane travel, we arrived in
We were immediately and whole-heartedly welcomed by the orphans and the staff at the home where we spent the next week digging, laying brick, pouring cement, painting (88) shutters & railings and window frames. Also, we blew bubbles, made crafts, had a puppet show, learned Khmer (the Cambodian language—I can count to 29), taught English, played soccer, dodgeball, and baseball, and so much more. We ate pork & rice for nearly every meal. Yes, even breakfast-although a great alternative was the fresh French Bread sold by young girls in the town. One loaf cost 500 Riel (about 12.5 cents). The peanut butter we “smuggled” into the country was delicious on this bread.
We instantly loved the children, who were such a bright contrast to the children we saw begging on the streets of the larger cities. Although, they had lost so much, they knew that life has so much more to offer than poverty and approached each day as a blessing. The time to say goodbye came much too quickly. On the way home, I had the opportunity to tour Angkor Wat and other beautiful temples in Siem Reap (including one featured in Tomb Raider), shop in the Russian Market in Phnom Penh (what deals I made), and a couple days of site-seeing in Hong Kong. All of this was amazing, but none of it compared to the time we spent with our friends in Chhuk.
This year, our current plan (which is subject to change—as we discovered last year) is to travel to the
I am eager to embark on this adventure and look forward to sharing with you upon my return. I would be blessed to share this experience with you. Would you like to have a part in this adventure? The most important way to get involved is to pray for me, and the team, in the months leading up to our trip and especially during our trip. You can also support me financially. The approximate cost, per person, will be $1800.00. Please pray about how you might be able to support me. Thank you for your love and support.
Go to warmblankets.com to read more about
Love and Blessings,
Liz Jones
Please email me to let me know you are praying for me, or to find out where to send financial support.
28 March 2006
Invisible Children
Dear Friends & Family!
Sunday night I got the opportunity to see an amazing film for the second time. The film is called "Invisible Children." It was made by three young men who left for an adventure in Africa the same day the war with Iraq began. They weren’t sure exactly what story they would come back with, but they knew they were entering dangerous territory. Initially they wanted to get into Southern Sudan, but ended up documenting children in Uganda who have been deeply impacted by the Ugandan war.
Let me share my paraphrase of the situation there and what these young filmmakers documented. Each night thousands of children walk into the cities to sleep under verandas, in hospitals, anywhere they feel safe from the Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA) which has made a habit of abducting children to brainwash and train into warriors, to abduct more children, etc and oppose the government. The founder Alice Lakwena, and the current leader, Joseph Kony, of the LRA claim to be led by a spirit and use witchcraft and intimidation as they lead their soldiers. Children as young as 5 are daily exposed to brutal killings in order to desensitize them and mold them into child soldiers.
One boy, Jacob, in the film said this:
"I have nothing. I don’t even have a blanket. We don’t have anything to do with food. Maybe we can eat once a day…so it is better when you kill us. And if possible, you can kill us, kill us. For us, we don’t want now to stay. …no one taking care of us. We are not going to school…" Jacob and his brother escaped from the LRA after their older brother was killed.
I first viewed this film, with some girls from my church about a year ago. Afterwards, we all just sat their and asked, "What can we do about this?" Children’s lives are much too precious to just ignore. The filmmakers have since formed a non-profit organization devoted to making the public aware of this situation and taking whatever steps they can to stop it. See, the American government knows about this situation, but when the filmmakers went to Washington to ask what they are doing about it, they were told that they needed to see the American people take an interest in the troubles in Uganda. You should check out their website to find out more: www.invisiblechildren.com.
My friend, Kara, works for Invisible Children in San Diego, and is sending me a few copies of the DVD to share with people I know. I am hoping to show the film to whoever would like to see it within the next few weeks.
Besides donating money (which is of course a great thing to do), one way I am planning to support Invisible Children, is in taking part in their "Global Commute Night." On April 29th, in 136 cities all across the country and a few in other countries, people are taking to the streets and doing just what the children of Uganda do every night, walking from their home to a safe-place, where they can sleep for the night, without fear of being abducted. I’m heading to San Francisco (the location hasn’t been solidified—but Union Square is what they think) that night. Will you join?
I know my few paragraphs can’t even begin to describe the impact this film has made on me and so many others. I hope you will visit their website and that you will have the opportunity to view the film as well. It is truly heart-changing.
I love you all, and I thank God for the protection he has provided me each night.
Love,
Liz
Sunday night I got the opportunity to see an amazing film for the second time. The film is called "Invisible Children." It was made by three young men who left for an adventure in Africa the same day the war with Iraq began. They weren’t sure exactly what story they would come back with, but they knew they were entering dangerous territory. Initially they wanted to get into Southern Sudan, but ended up documenting children in Uganda who have been deeply impacted by the Ugandan war.
Let me share my paraphrase of the situation there and what these young filmmakers documented. Each night thousands of children walk into the cities to sleep under verandas, in hospitals, anywhere they feel safe from the Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA) which has made a habit of abducting children to brainwash and train into warriors, to abduct more children, etc and oppose the government. The founder Alice Lakwena, and the current leader, Joseph Kony, of the LRA claim to be led by a spirit and use witchcraft and intimidation as they lead their soldiers. Children as young as 5 are daily exposed to brutal killings in order to desensitize them and mold them into child soldiers.
One boy, Jacob, in the film said this:
"I have nothing. I don’t even have a blanket. We don’t have anything to do with food. Maybe we can eat once a day…so it is better when you kill us. And if possible, you can kill us, kill us. For us, we don’t want now to stay. …no one taking care of us. We are not going to school…" Jacob and his brother escaped from the LRA after their older brother was killed.
I first viewed this film, with some girls from my church about a year ago. Afterwards, we all just sat their and asked, "What can we do about this?" Children’s lives are much too precious to just ignore. The filmmakers have since formed a non-profit organization devoted to making the public aware of this situation and taking whatever steps they can to stop it. See, the American government knows about this situation, but when the filmmakers went to Washington to ask what they are doing about it, they were told that they needed to see the American people take an interest in the troubles in Uganda. You should check out their website to find out more: www.invisiblechildren.com.
My friend, Kara, works for Invisible Children in San Diego, and is sending me a few copies of the DVD to share with people I know. I am hoping to show the film to whoever would like to see it within the next few weeks.
Besides donating money (which is of course a great thing to do), one way I am planning to support Invisible Children, is in taking part in their "Global Commute Night." On April 29th, in 136 cities all across the country and a few in other countries, people are taking to the streets and doing just what the children of Uganda do every night, walking from their home to a safe-place, where they can sleep for the night, without fear of being abducted. I’m heading to San Francisco (the location hasn’t been solidified—but Union Square is what they think) that night. Will you join?
I know my few paragraphs can’t even begin to describe the impact this film has made on me and so many others. I hope you will visit their website and that you will have the opportunity to view the film as well. It is truly heart-changing.
I love you all, and I thank God for the protection he has provided me each night.
Love,
Liz
10 March 2006
Doors are opening in North Korea!
I received the following email today at work. This is so exciting. I honestly don't know much about
Rev. Dayoung Kimn, a Korean/American Foursquare leader and
Rev. Kimn has done a great deal of work in
If you would like more information about how you or your church can be involved in a World Impact Team to
So who wants to go with me? This would be friggin' amazing (Sorry--I don't usually use such "language," but I am really fired up about this)!!!
22 February 2006
Two Sponges
This afternoon, I took a moment to ask myself, "When is the last time you got genuinely excited about sponges?" Well, honestly, I can't remember. But in the last two days, I encountered two people who were extraordinarily excited to receive two sponges. And these weren't your top of the line bath sponges. They were more like 4 for a dollar (at the Dollar Store), regular old kitchen sponges.
Sponge Story #1:
I met Esmerelda about a month ago. And for the last four weeks, every Thursday, I've visited her in her neighborhood. Every week she would run out and say hello and ask us what "goodies" we brought. Now, before I go any further, I need to tell you Esmerelda is about 6 or 7 years old. She is part of one of many families in Papago Court that I have the privilege of delivering groceries to--families, who basically can't afford to buy enough groceries on their own.
Each week, I am a part of a group that delivers 200 bags of groceries to two adjacent streets in Santa Rosa. Esmerelda is such a fireball of energy and excitement. Maybe my second week out I told her, we would be coming back that Saturday for a party. That was all she had to hear--she would be there. That Saturday, as we were setting up tables for a BBQ; chairs for a mini-church service; and putting out clothing, backpacks and other supplies to give away, I said to Esmerelda, "See--Didn't I tell you we would have a party?" She quickly responded, "This isn't a party, this is just a bunch of stuff." I suppose she was right. The stuff doesn't make the party. About an hour later as I was turning the jump rope, I asked her if it was a party yet and she whole-heartedly agreed. The next Thursday I saw Esmerelda carrying a bag of groceries with extra bread and boxes of donuts packed on top. As she carried this back to her house, she called over her shoulders, "I'll be right back for some more GOODIES!" It was one of the most precious things I ever saw.
You, quite possibly, are wondering where the sponges come in. This week we went out to Papago Court on Tuesday instead of Thursday. Esmerelda didn't come out right away, but when she arrived, we all knew. She brought home a bag or two of groceries and then came back out to play (A lot of kids come to help distribute groceries and meet new friends like Esmerelda). When we had one bag left, Esmerelda hopped up into the truck and looked inside and saw two sponges at the top of the bag. She was ecstatic. She grabbed them and claimed them for herself. Immediately she rubbed them (both) on her face and proceeded to "wash" everyone else around. In time she shared one sponge with Katie (one of the kids who came to help) and the two of them continued washing anyone they could reach. I've never seen kids have so much with a sponge that wasn't wet.
I never, before, could have believed that about $0.50 worth of sponges could be such a blessing to one person. But Esmerelda changed my mind.
Sponge Story #2
Recently I met a woman who needed help. She needed groceries and gas. She had just found out that her husband (or ex-husband) had cleaned out what little money she had in her bank account. With two teenagers and a seven-year old to feed, she was feeling desperate. I honestly was a little overwhelmed by her problems, so I asked one of the pastors to speak to her. He talked to her for a while and prayed with her and took her to get some gas. We refered her to Hope West for groceries, but I was afraid her message on their machine wouldn't be picked up right away, so I got her number and told her I would call her before I brought her some groceries.
Starting at about 2PM I tried to call, but the phone just rang and rang. So, I just left the groceries in my trunk and determined that I would call her the next morning. I tried, but still couldn't get through, but she called me and gave me her address and explained she would be home for the next two hours. She offered to come to me, but I wanted to make sure to get her a gallon of milk and a few other items. About a half hour later, I made a quick trip to Safeway and then made my way to her house. When I arrived she was on the phone, but told the person on the other end, that her "friend, Liz" was there. I was honored that, without really knowing me, she called me "friend."
For the next 20 minutes she shared the details of her life with me. The painful moments of the last few years and specifically the last few months. She shared that she was raised in an atheist family, but through a friend, came to church and experienced God's love and forgiveness for herself. This woman has been broken before and knows she will make it through this, but still struggles with how and why. She appreciated the limited scripture I could share with her and was pleased to have me pray for and with her. As we were talking, I understood why God didn't allow me to "drop off" the groceries to her the night before. She didn't NEED the groceries, she NEEDED the encouragement, a listener and a partner in prayer. As I was about to leave, she looked at the top of the groceries and exclaimed, "SPONGES! I needed these." God surely provides what we NEED.
I look forward to sharing with her in the future. Please pray for this woman.
REMEMBER: God will provide all your needs.
Sponge Story #1:
I met Esmerelda about a month ago. And for the last four weeks, every Thursday, I've visited her in her neighborhood. Every week she would run out and say hello and ask us what "goodies" we brought. Now, before I go any further, I need to tell you Esmerelda is about 6 or 7 years old. She is part of one of many families in Papago Court that I have the privilege of delivering groceries to--families, who basically can't afford to buy enough groceries on their own.
Each week, I am a part of a group that delivers 200 bags of groceries to two adjacent streets in Santa Rosa. Esmerelda is such a fireball of energy and excitement. Maybe my second week out I told her, we would be coming back that Saturday for a party. That was all she had to hear--she would be there. That Saturday, as we were setting up tables for a BBQ; chairs for a mini-church service; and putting out clothing, backpacks and other supplies to give away, I said to Esmerelda, "See--Didn't I tell you we would have a party?" She quickly responded, "This isn't a party, this is just a bunch of stuff." I suppose she was right. The stuff doesn't make the party. About an hour later as I was turning the jump rope, I asked her if it was a party yet and she whole-heartedly agreed. The next Thursday I saw Esmerelda carrying a bag of groceries with extra bread and boxes of donuts packed on top. As she carried this back to her house, she called over her shoulders, "I'll be right back for some more GOODIES!" It was one of the most precious things I ever saw.
You, quite possibly, are wondering where the sponges come in. This week we went out to Papago Court on Tuesday instead of Thursday. Esmerelda didn't come out right away, but when she arrived, we all knew. She brought home a bag or two of groceries and then came back out to play (A lot of kids come to help distribute groceries and meet new friends like Esmerelda). When we had one bag left, Esmerelda hopped up into the truck and looked inside and saw two sponges at the top of the bag. She was ecstatic. She grabbed them and claimed them for herself. Immediately she rubbed them (both) on her face and proceeded to "wash" everyone else around. In time she shared one sponge with Katie (one of the kids who came to help) and the two of them continued washing anyone they could reach. I've never seen kids have so much with a sponge that wasn't wet.
I never, before, could have believed that about $0.50 worth of sponges could be such a blessing to one person. But Esmerelda changed my mind.
Sponge Story #2
Recently I met a woman who needed help. She needed groceries and gas. She had just found out that her husband (or ex-husband) had cleaned out what little money she had in her bank account. With two teenagers and a seven-year old to feed, she was feeling desperate. I honestly was a little overwhelmed by her problems, so I asked one of the pastors to speak to her. He talked to her for a while and prayed with her and took her to get some gas. We refered her to Hope West for groceries, but I was afraid her message on their machine wouldn't be picked up right away, so I got her number and told her I would call her before I brought her some groceries.
Starting at about 2PM I tried to call, but the phone just rang and rang. So, I just left the groceries in my trunk and determined that I would call her the next morning. I tried, but still couldn't get through, but she called me and gave me her address and explained she would be home for the next two hours. She offered to come to me, but I wanted to make sure to get her a gallon of milk and a few other items. About a half hour later, I made a quick trip to Safeway and then made my way to her house. When I arrived she was on the phone, but told the person on the other end, that her "friend, Liz" was there. I was honored that, without really knowing me, she called me "friend."
For the next 20 minutes she shared the details of her life with me. The painful moments of the last few years and specifically the last few months. She shared that she was raised in an atheist family, but through a friend, came to church and experienced God's love and forgiveness for herself. This woman has been broken before and knows she will make it through this, but still struggles with how and why. She appreciated the limited scripture I could share with her and was pleased to have me pray for and with her. As we were talking, I understood why God didn't allow me to "drop off" the groceries to her the night before. She didn't NEED the groceries, she NEEDED the encouragement, a listener and a partner in prayer. As I was about to leave, she looked at the top of the groceries and exclaimed, "SPONGES! I needed these." God surely provides what we NEED.
I look forward to sharing with her in the future. Please pray for this woman.
REMEMBER: God will provide all your needs.
30 December 2005
To the driver of the grey Mercedes who passed me in a no passing zone, in the pouring rain on Petaluma Hill Road this afternoon. Let me take a moment to translate my long, unintimidating horn honk: "Why are you passing me? What possible reason could you find to pass me as I slow to avoid running into the turning car in front of me? I really don't have a problem with your freedom to do stupid things, but when you put other people in danger (including me), that makes me angry. So please don't do it." I hope that extra 10 seconds was used wisely when you got to your destination. Besides your driving skills, I'm a little concerned you may be suicidal-You did cut off a bus when you turned left (for a "shortcut" I'm sure) a few minutes later. Please, don't go through with it. Even if it doesn't seem like it at the time, there is so much to live for.
To the PG&E crew in the cherry picker (that's what they're called, right?) working on power lines. Thank You. May God bless you and protect you.
To the hundreds of other cars that drove with me or passed me going the opposite direction. I wish you safe travels. And please don't let the rain make you stupid. I've seen it happen before, I'm sure it will happen again.
To the guy who makes the rain (AKA God). Thank you for providing water to nourish the fields and the animals and us. Please be merciful in this outpouring. Protect the people in the flood plains. Protect all the drivers out there and all the workers required to work in this storm. And as we enter this holiday weekend, PLEASE keep people safe and help us all to make intelligent decisions as we celebrate and travel. Thanks.
Sincerely,
the girl in the car with the peeling paint.
To the PG&E crew in the cherry picker (that's what they're called, right?) working on power lines. Thank You. May God bless you and protect you.
To the hundreds of other cars that drove with me or passed me going the opposite direction. I wish you safe travels. And please don't let the rain make you stupid. I've seen it happen before, I'm sure it will happen again.
To the guy who makes the rain (AKA God). Thank you for providing water to nourish the fields and the animals and us. Please be merciful in this outpouring. Protect the people in the flood plains. Protect all the drivers out there and all the workers required to work in this storm. And as we enter this holiday weekend, PLEASE keep people safe and help us all to make intelligent decisions as we celebrate and travel. Thanks.
Sincerely,
the girl in the car with the peeling paint.
28 December 2005
Fallen Soldier
Although I strongly believe that myspace is evil, I have recently (under great duress) become a card-carrying member of the myspace family. I have found that although there are many, many, extraordinarily annoying parts to it, there are some redeeming features that make up my reasons for canceling my unofficial boycott. It seems that half my high school is on myspace and that it does a much better job of keeping alumni connected than Classmates.com ever could (you can’t do anything on classmates without buying a membership). Although some people have 18,000 “friends” that they have never met, I currently have 2 and I am totally ok with that (One is Tom who started myspace and comes automatically with the membership). I hope to use myspace to get back in contact and/or keep up to date with what’s happening in people’s lives. I hereby solemnly promise to avoid posting stupid surveys, quizzes and pointless blogs as I already have a medium for that here on blogspot. Not to mention, myspace templates get very busy and frustrating. I only intend to add friends that I actually know or did know at some point. And for the time being, I don’t even NEED to add them. I’ll add them if they contact me or if I NEED to in order to contact them. I know I have friends. I don’t need myspace to validate me with virtual friends. As for news, I have discovered some classmates who have changed a lot, some classmates who have changed very little and of course those in-betweenies. There are new marriages, new babies, great careers and people (like me) who still live at home with mom and dad (although I’m trying to change that). I’ve read about their travels, some of their trials and also triumphs. It’s hard to believe I graduated 5 YEARS AGO. I was even impressed to find that our Senior Class President is still working hard for our class. She set up a group for our class to stay connected with the hopes of drawing from it for a ten-year reunion (it seems far-off, yet so close).
It was in this group, that I found a post about a classmate of ours that died serving in Iraq. I was shocked. This happened in October. He had been living in Santa Rosa and left behind a wife and a new baby. Josh Kynoch (“Kynoch” as he was referred to in school) had been a member of the wrestling team. And I was the stat-girl (scorekeeper). We weren’t close, but I spent almost all my time every wrestling season with the team—wrestling meets, weekend tournaments, even practices. I was pretty devoted to it and deeply loved the sport and all my “brothers” in the dysfunctional family that was the Casa Grande Wrestling Team. Although I had my fair share of crushes on some of the guys, I’m pretty confident that they simply saw me as “Liz, the stat-girl.” Some of the guys could be mean to me, but I enjoyed the competitive spirit and “took it like a man.” There were some who were truly and genuinely nice to me--Josh was one of them (although I don’t think I ever appreciated him enough at the time). He had a bit of a rough time trying to make it as a wrestler. The first few years were quite grueling, but he was persistent. He never gave up. I can imagine that made him a great soldier. There were many guys who joined the wrestling team (nobody was cut except for grades or behavior), got discouraged and quit. I know Josh had some discouraging times but he never ever quit. He kept trying to be a better wrestler and that was what happened. He learned new skills, he got stronger. In February of 2000 (our senior year), he earned the right to wrestle at the North Coast Section wrestling tournament in Antioch (I’ve been told that our section tournament is more intense and challenging than many state’s tournaments). I am sure he brought the same intensity, drive and passion to serving our country in Iraq. In learning about his death, I felt deep sorrow for his family as well. I met his little sister when she was probably 11. She came and watched his meets and tournaments and eventually became a stat-girl at her high school. His mom watched and cheered for him tirelessly. I remember during one of the snow trips the team (and their families) made every year, she braided my hair on the steps outside the Truckee Veterans Hall. That team was such a blend of all the families involved. I don’t believe I have ever met his wife, Sarah. But I pray that God will grant her peace and comfort, and that she will be able to share with their daughter, Savannah, all of the reasons she loved her daddy. And that she will enjoy every moment of Savannah’s life and treasure each time she sees Josh in Savannah’s eyes or expression or however his legacy lives on. I don’t intend to make any political statement by posting this. I do, however, wish to express my gratitude to those who have put and are currently putting their lives on the line to keep freedom available to us and to bring freedom to people who never had it. Regardless of whether the war in Iraq was necessary or not, our friends, brothers, sisters, parents, children, cousins, nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, co-workers, and more are risking their lives daily. And their lives are precious. God, Protect the military personnel (and civilian contractors) all over the world, who are risking their lives. I pray that you would show them beautiful things daily so they would not get overwhelmed by the violence that they see. I pray that YOU would be their guide and comfort. Remind them of all the people who love and support them. Lord, I specifically pray for the Kynoch Family. Grant them love, peace and happiness in this Holiday Season. May Josh’s memory always rest in their hearts, in their photographs and in their memories. Bring them people to be comforters and friends. Guide them down the path you have for them. Bless them immensely. Grant them “mercy, peace and love…in abundance” (Jude v.2). Amen.
It was in this group, that I found a post about a classmate of ours that died serving in Iraq. I was shocked. This happened in October. He had been living in Santa Rosa and left behind a wife and a new baby. Josh Kynoch (“Kynoch” as he was referred to in school) had been a member of the wrestling team. And I was the stat-girl (scorekeeper). We weren’t close, but I spent almost all my time every wrestling season with the team—wrestling meets, weekend tournaments, even practices. I was pretty devoted to it and deeply loved the sport and all my “brothers” in the dysfunctional family that was the Casa Grande Wrestling Team. Although I had my fair share of crushes on some of the guys, I’m pretty confident that they simply saw me as “Liz, the stat-girl.” Some of the guys could be mean to me, but I enjoyed the competitive spirit and “took it like a man.” There were some who were truly and genuinely nice to me--Josh was one of them (although I don’t think I ever appreciated him enough at the time). He had a bit of a rough time trying to make it as a wrestler. The first few years were quite grueling, but he was persistent. He never gave up. I can imagine that made him a great soldier. There were many guys who joined the wrestling team (nobody was cut except for grades or behavior), got discouraged and quit. I know Josh had some discouraging times but he never ever quit. He kept trying to be a better wrestler and that was what happened. He learned new skills, he got stronger. In February of 2000 (our senior year), he earned the right to wrestle at the North Coast Section wrestling tournament in Antioch (I’ve been told that our section tournament is more intense and challenging than many state’s tournaments). I am sure he brought the same intensity, drive and passion to serving our country in Iraq. In learning about his death, I felt deep sorrow for his family as well. I met his little sister when she was probably 11. She came and watched his meets and tournaments and eventually became a stat-girl at her high school. His mom watched and cheered for him tirelessly. I remember during one of the snow trips the team (and their families) made every year, she braided my hair on the steps outside the Truckee Veterans Hall. That team was such a blend of all the families involved. I don’t believe I have ever met his wife, Sarah. But I pray that God will grant her peace and comfort, and that she will be able to share with their daughter, Savannah, all of the reasons she loved her daddy. And that she will enjoy every moment of Savannah’s life and treasure each time she sees Josh in Savannah’s eyes or expression or however his legacy lives on. I don’t intend to make any political statement by posting this. I do, however, wish to express my gratitude to those who have put and are currently putting their lives on the line to keep freedom available to us and to bring freedom to people who never had it. Regardless of whether the war in Iraq was necessary or not, our friends, brothers, sisters, parents, children, cousins, nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, co-workers, and more are risking their lives daily. And their lives are precious. God, Protect the military personnel (and civilian contractors) all over the world, who are risking their lives. I pray that you would show them beautiful things daily so they would not get overwhelmed by the violence that they see. I pray that YOU would be their guide and comfort. Remind them of all the people who love and support them. Lord, I specifically pray for the Kynoch Family. Grant them love, peace and happiness in this Holiday Season. May Josh’s memory always rest in their hearts, in their photographs and in their memories. Bring them people to be comforters and friends. Guide them down the path you have for them. Bless them immensely. Grant them “mercy, peace and love…in abundance” (Jude v.2). Amen.I'll see if I can find any pictures of Josh from High School to post.
27 December 2005
I Couldn't Agree More
| You Belong in Rome |
 Well, except the cappuccino part (I don't drink coffee), I couldn't agree more. I LOVE ROME. Some might even say I HEART ROMA. |
25 December 2005
From Jana
Below is an autobigraphical story that Jana gave to me as part of my Christmas present. I present it to you unedited and without comment (except this: Jana Rocks!). Enjoy.
Watch Out, Crime…
Stepping over a Little Debbie Snack Cake wrapper and a discarded pack of Camels, I charge down the hall and stick the key into my mailbox. Peering out at me from the other side is something from Liz. I wind up the staircase, tearing into the envelope between my hands full of keys and cell phone and bus pass. I grin, then laugh out loud at the group of girls from Bible study posed on a fire engine.
Most of the mail that has come to my Turk Street mailbox has been from Liz. But then, I muse, that makes sense, seeing as how she is my best friend. Sending cards to people was typically Liz. Also typically Liz was the idea to make the cards in the first place. “It’s perfect!” she’d explained. We all looked fabulous and were all wearing red and green; a strange coincidence for a fall day.
As I unlocked the double bolt, to my apartment, my thoughts trailed back to that fun day. Liz had invited me weeks beforehand to join her church’s September
11th commemoration day, and I had looked forward to it since. Though she had been coming to my church for nearly a year now, I had not yet made the southern trek to Hillside.
I had joined her in the makeshift folding chair pews and we greeted one another warmly, as though it had been months since our last meeting. In fact, we
had just seen each other the night before at Hope Chapel. I was not disappointed in the service, and I couldn’t help but think how my friend’s heart must have come being soaked in this church surrounding. Later on in the day, we had sat down with our pot-luck laden plates beside Aimee’s mom. After a little small talk, she had asked, “How do you know Liz?”
I thought on that as I chewed my Veggieburger, and swallowed as I gave my reply. “We met at work.” Liz took over the explanation at that point, and I took another bite, smiling at our conspiracy to answer the phones, “Transworld Systems, what’s your favorite color?”
That, of course, was the least of the good times had by Liz and Jana, the most dynamic of all duos. It had all begun one day nearly a year beforehand, when my endless requests for “something to do” had gotten me sent to the department next door. Between un-stapling and re-stapling client contracts, I discussed my upcoming trip to France with the unfamiliar co-workers around me. Liz and I chatted happily as two who knew the magical experience that Europe can bring.
From then on, work became a pleasant an experience for me. I was always curious what fun accessories Liz might be wearing for the day, whether we’d be sharing lunch together in the breakroom, or who would be the first to e-mail the other. And whenever we both had a free evening there was always the chance to catch a movie or do some window-shopping together.
Of course, I didn’t explain all of this to Aimee’s mom. Not only was my mouth too full, but I didn’t think words could really sum up our friendship. Perhaps, I thought, it just shows.
That was a great day. A great idea, I repeat to myself as I tack the festive card onto my bulletin board. A great friend. God sure knew what we needed!
Yes, meeting at Transworld was just the beginning. Many wonderful memories would follow. Sleepovers and retreats. Movies and parties. Bibles studies and home groups. Tear gas and volcanoes. Mademoiselle Incroyable and Bomb Voyage. The dynamic duo.
16 December 2005
I'm an Auntie (AGAIN)
My mom just called to tell me that the newest addition to our family is Elijah Marlin (my dad's name is Marlin). He was born this morning at 10:40AM in Pensacola, Florida. He was 8lbs., 15.8oz (I thought he was going to be bigger). I had a feeling it was going to be a boy. They didn't know until this morning. Elijah is number 7 for nieces and nephews and he is the 3rd boy. My brother, Ben, and his wife, Lisa, have two daughters: Tara & Lonnece. My sister, Heidi, and her husband, James, now have two boys and a girl: Samuel, Bethany, and Elijah. And my sister, Kathryn, has a daughter, Cheyanne (from her first marriage), and with her husband, Paul, has a son: Dylan. Dylan was born November1st of this year and I get to babysit him tomorrow night.
Kathryn lives just a few blocks away with her family, but all the rest of my family lives far away. Ben lives near Portland, Oregon, and Heidi lives in Alabama, across the border from Pensacola, Florida. But their next station (her husband is in the Coast Guard) is going to be Point Reyes, so they will live nearby again next spring or summer. It will be nice to have more nieces and nephews around. And I think they will all be excited to play together.
My brother and his family will be visiting this weekend. So we get to have Christmas early! Woohoo! My mom is flying to Pensacola right before New Year's to see her newest grandson and to help my sister out while James is at school.
Ok, well, I don't have any pictures of Elijah yet, but I'm trying to load a picture of Dylan from the day he was born (about 6 weeks ago). Isn't his aunt awesome?
Paul, Kathryn, Cheyanne & Dylan
Kathryn lives just a few blocks away with her family, but all the rest of my family lives far away. Ben lives near Portland, Oregon, and Heidi lives in Alabama, across the border from Pensacola, Florida. But their next station (her husband is in the Coast Guard) is going to be Point Reyes, so they will live nearby again next spring or summer. It will be nice to have more nieces and nephews around. And I think they will all be excited to play together.
My brother and his family will be visiting this weekend. So we get to have Christmas early! Woohoo! My mom is flying to Pensacola right before New Year's to see her newest grandson and to help my sister out while James is at school.
Ok, well, I don't have any pictures of Elijah yet, but I'm trying to load a picture of Dylan from the day he was born (about 6 weeks ago). Isn't his aunt awesome?
Paul, Kathryn, Cheyanne & DylanI hope to have pictures of Elijah soon. My sister is usually good about sending out pictures (but, this is baby number 3).
14 December 2005
PRAY
Dear Friends,
Casa Grande High School students lost four classmates in a car accident yesterday afternoon. I drove past the wreckage about half an hour to an hour after it happened. I instantly knew, as I was driving pas,t that it was a very serious accident. And I could just feel that young people were involved. By the time I was driving past, there were at least four fire trucks, a couple of ambulances, several CHP vehicles and two REACH helicopters were landing or just landed. They had removed the top of the car by that point. No names have been released, but they say the female driver and a male passenger in the backseat died upon or soon following impact and two others died while being treated at the hospitals. The other two passengers are still in critical conditon.
Please take time to pray for the two who are still fighting to survive, the families of all the victims and their friends and fellow classmates. When I was a freshman in high school, two accidents in one weekend took the lives of three young people I had known and although I wasn't close at the time with any of them, it was very traumatic.
Please also pray for the driver of the truck that hit the car. CHP says that he had no way to avoid the accident, but I know that such an experience cannot be easily brushed aside.
Click here to read the Press Democrat coverage of this story.
God, we don't know why these young people are taken away. But we do know that you have a perfect plan, always. Please guide, comfort, protect, strengthen, instruct, support and love the families, friends, teachers and classmates of all involved. They need you now more than I can imagine. I pray that all eyes, ears and hearts would be open to you, Jesus. Be the strong tower.
In Jesus' Name,
Amen.
God bless you all!
Liz
Casa Grande High School students lost four classmates in a car accident yesterday afternoon. I drove past the wreckage about half an hour to an hour after it happened. I instantly knew, as I was driving pas,t that it was a very serious accident. And I could just feel that young people were involved. By the time I was driving past, there were at least four fire trucks, a couple of ambulances, several CHP vehicles and two REACH helicopters were landing or just landed. They had removed the top of the car by that point. No names have been released, but they say the female driver and a male passenger in the backseat died upon or soon following impact and two others died while being treated at the hospitals. The other two passengers are still in critical conditon.
Please take time to pray for the two who are still fighting to survive, the families of all the victims and their friends and fellow classmates. When I was a freshman in high school, two accidents in one weekend took the lives of three young people I had known and although I wasn't close at the time with any of them, it was very traumatic.
Please also pray for the driver of the truck that hit the car. CHP says that he had no way to avoid the accident, but I know that such an experience cannot be easily brushed aside.
Click here to read the Press Democrat coverage of this story.
God, we don't know why these young people are taken away. But we do know that you have a perfect plan, always. Please guide, comfort, protect, strengthen, instruct, support and love the families, friends, teachers and classmates of all involved. They need you now more than I can imagine. I pray that all eyes, ears and hearts would be open to you, Jesus. Be the strong tower.
In Jesus' Name,
Amen.
God bless you all!
Liz
13 November 2005
Content as a Willow...
I was asked to share some of my experiences in other cultures, specifically impoverished places that I've been to, at church this morning. The pastor was speaking on "Learning to be content in every circumstance" and preached from Philippians 4:10-13.
This is what I shared:
The first time I ever traveled outside of the country, I was 17, and I went with a group from my school to the Dominican Republic for 3 weeks. One afternoon, during this trip, several of us were sitting on an old woman’s porch, just relaxing and talking, when my teacher turned to us and asked, “Are you a willow or an oak?” Our initial reaction was “Huh?” Our teacher soon explained to us that although an oak tree appears strong and sturdy, the branches, in great winds, are easily snapped off, whereas a willow tree’s branches merely move with the direction of the wind. At the time, I said, “I am absolutely a willow. I’m flexible and I deal with change easily.”
I’ve found, in my travels since then, that the metaphor of the willow cannot be forgotten. Some people might call it “Rolling with the punches.” Paul says this: “I have learned to be content in every situation.”
Amazingly enough, at 24, I can look back and tell you about time I have spent in 12 different countries. In those times and in those places, I have learned what it means to be a willow. (Or at least how to try…)
Many of the countries I have visited are considered THIRD WORLD COUNTRIES. To them, anyone who has money in a checking account is rich.----It is when I visit these countries, and spend time with the people, that I am brought to the realization that I have far more than I could ever need. And even when you have just enough to survive, there is always a way to share what you have with others. IN FACT, I think that the less you have, the easier it is to give away. This is especially visible in fellow Believers.
In 2002, I went to Tijuana with some high school and college students from the church. My first, and most poignant, memory of the church we visited was a woman drying the floor of a classroom with her own sweater, so that we could move our sleeping gear in quickly. I was BLOWN AWAY by her sacrifice. I could not imagine myself doing the same thing. I probably would have suggested waiting, or searched for a towel of some sort. I know this woman did not own much, and she dirtied HER sweater to offer US comfort. The rest of the week, we continued to be amazed at how much we were blessed by those that we expected to come and bless. “THEY have learned to be content in every situation.”
A few years later, during my second trip to Mexico, I again witnessed generosity on a level far-exceeding my own ability to give. Every day that we worked at the church, many of the women made us a mid-morning snack (which was far more than a snack) and lunch. They went to great lengths to make sure we were fed without the chance of becoming sick—for example, they washed all fruits and vegetables they served us with bottled water. And they served every meal with a smile. Even when a few of us were exploring the city with some of the youth of their church, they refused to let us pay for the ice cream we ordered. It is humbling every time I experience these expressions of generosity. “THEY too have learned to be content in every situation.”
But that’s not enough. It’s not enough to just be impressed by the generosity and flexibility of others. It’s a trait that each of us must develop. For me, there are several ways this exhibits itself. Before I visit foreign countries, my biggest concern is whether I’ll like the food. And when I return, my biggest hope is that I will be able to be as content and generous as those we served.
I expected a recent trip, to Cambodia, to stretch my taste buds farther than ever. Those who know me know that I am one of THE pickiest eaters. (I was in high school before I ever learned--kicking and screaming-- to enjoy Chinese food.) But I recognized that there would be no alternative food available when I was in Cambodia and God opened my mind and taste buds to new and exotic foods. I remembered from my time in the Dominican Republic that what I feared wasn’t bad, just unknown. In a simple way God taught me to be content in THIS circumstance.
While I triumphed over my own fears in Cambodia, I recognized that my freedom to have these fears was not available for the people we served. When they had food, they gave thanks. They could not say “No thank you, I don’t like it.” Every meal was a life or death situation. I NEVER before witnessed this level of poverty. Each of our 8-10 sets of clean travel and work clothes looked extravagant in comparison to the few sets of clothing each age group of orphans shared. The treasured soccer ball was one of the only toys around the home, when almost every kid here has an overflowing toy box – I know I did. Work at the home and time at school was treasured, for they recognized that they were privileged to be taken care of so well.
Every time I return home from a mission, I am convicted of all the things I can live without. The believers we met in Cambodia were not only content with what they had but they were TRULY JOYOUS and readily offered their LOVE to us!
My most recent mission trip did not take me out of the country. Although I have always had the desire to see other countries and experience their cultures, just 5 weeks ago, I traveled to New Orleans to aid in Hurricane Relief. Several of these days we brought ice and water to affected neighborhoods—EVERY neighborhood was affected! Many of the people we met were just returning to their homes for the first time. Some were ripping out carpets and bleaching the walls, while others simply turned around, and wouldn’t – or couldn’t- look back. Each person we came in contact with, we offered to pray with. I never heard a single person turn us down. One woman in particular sticks out to me. She DEFINITELY learned what it means to be “content in every situation.” All of her worldly possessions: pictures, furniture, Christmas decorations, everything was washed away. She stood in front of her destroyed house and began preaching to us (who had come to minister to her). She said “God knew I didn’t need it, so he took it away... From now on I am only going to buy things that I truly NEED… I can’t justify buying things that I want... God is faithful to provide everything I NEED.” Again, I was blown away. Would I have the faith, and be content enough, to respond in the same way. I’m not sure. When I returned home, just like every other time I have returned from a missions trip, I started to take inventory of what I have, and more importantly, what I don’t need. Do I really need another pair of shoes? Millions of people in this world have never owned a pair of shoes. Do I really need a new sweater? People are freezing every day and I have 5 other sweatshirts hanging in my closet. Do I really need a new CD? No. That money could provide food for a hungry family.
Now I see that no matter how much I think I am like the willow tree, I still need to grow more flexible and quit trying to avoid the strong winds, but welcome the storms, just as I do the gentle breezes. When Paul tells us we need to learn to be “content in every situation,” he doesn’t just mean when we are wanting, but also when we have plenty. We need to quit desiring a little bit more and look at those who have next to nothing. They are our example of what it means to be content in every situation. Each time I meet them, I am reminded of that, and I NEED the reminder.
This is what I shared:
The first time I ever traveled outside of the country, I was 17, and I went with a group from my school to the Dominican Republic for 3 weeks. One afternoon, during this trip, several of us were sitting on an old woman’s porch, just relaxing and talking, when my teacher turned to us and asked, “Are you a willow or an oak?” Our initial reaction was “Huh?” Our teacher soon explained to us that although an oak tree appears strong and sturdy, the branches, in great winds, are easily snapped off, whereas a willow tree’s branches merely move with the direction of the wind. At the time, I said, “I am absolutely a willow. I’m flexible and I deal with change easily.”
I’ve found, in my travels since then, that the metaphor of the willow cannot be forgotten. Some people might call it “Rolling with the punches.” Paul says this: “I have learned to be content in every situation.”
Amazingly enough, at 24, I can look back and tell you about time I have spent in 12 different countries. In those times and in those places, I have learned what it means to be a willow. (Or at least how to try…)
Many of the countries I have visited are considered THIRD WORLD COUNTRIES. To them, anyone who has money in a checking account is rich.----It is when I visit these countries, and spend time with the people, that I am brought to the realization that I have far more than I could ever need. And even when you have just enough to survive, there is always a way to share what you have with others. IN FACT, I think that the less you have, the easier it is to give away. This is especially visible in fellow Believers.
In 2002, I went to Tijuana with some high school and college students from the church. My first, and most poignant, memory of the church we visited was a woman drying the floor of a classroom with her own sweater, so that we could move our sleeping gear in quickly. I was BLOWN AWAY by her sacrifice. I could not imagine myself doing the same thing. I probably would have suggested waiting, or searched for a towel of some sort. I know this woman did not own much, and she dirtied HER sweater to offer US comfort. The rest of the week, we continued to be amazed at how much we were blessed by those that we expected to come and bless. “THEY have learned to be content in every situation.”
A few years later, during my second trip to Mexico, I again witnessed generosity on a level far-exceeding my own ability to give. Every day that we worked at the church, many of the women made us a mid-morning snack (which was far more than a snack) and lunch. They went to great lengths to make sure we were fed without the chance of becoming sick—for example, they washed all fruits and vegetables they served us with bottled water. And they served every meal with a smile. Even when a few of us were exploring the city with some of the youth of their church, they refused to let us pay for the ice cream we ordered. It is humbling every time I experience these expressions of generosity. “THEY too have learned to be content in every situation.”
But that’s not enough. It’s not enough to just be impressed by the generosity and flexibility of others. It’s a trait that each of us must develop. For me, there are several ways this exhibits itself. Before I visit foreign countries, my biggest concern is whether I’ll like the food. And when I return, my biggest hope is that I will be able to be as content and generous as those we served.
I expected a recent trip, to Cambodia, to stretch my taste buds farther than ever. Those who know me know that I am one of THE pickiest eaters. (I was in high school before I ever learned--kicking and screaming-- to enjoy Chinese food.) But I recognized that there would be no alternative food available when I was in Cambodia and God opened my mind and taste buds to new and exotic foods. I remembered from my time in the Dominican Republic that what I feared wasn’t bad, just unknown. In a simple way God taught me to be content in THIS circumstance.
While I triumphed over my own fears in Cambodia, I recognized that my freedom to have these fears was not available for the people we served. When they had food, they gave thanks. They could not say “No thank you, I don’t like it.” Every meal was a life or death situation. I NEVER before witnessed this level of poverty. Each of our 8-10 sets of clean travel and work clothes looked extravagant in comparison to the few sets of clothing each age group of orphans shared. The treasured soccer ball was one of the only toys around the home, when almost every kid here has an overflowing toy box – I know I did. Work at the home and time at school was treasured, for they recognized that they were privileged to be taken care of so well.
Every time I return home from a mission, I am convicted of all the things I can live without. The believers we met in Cambodia were not only content with what they had but they were TRULY JOYOUS and readily offered their LOVE to us!
My most recent mission trip did not take me out of the country. Although I have always had the desire to see other countries and experience their cultures, just 5 weeks ago, I traveled to New Orleans to aid in Hurricane Relief. Several of these days we brought ice and water to affected neighborhoods—EVERY neighborhood was affected! Many of the people we met were just returning to their homes for the first time. Some were ripping out carpets and bleaching the walls, while others simply turned around, and wouldn’t – or couldn’t- look back. Each person we came in contact with, we offered to pray with. I never heard a single person turn us down. One woman in particular sticks out to me. She DEFINITELY learned what it means to be “content in every situation.” All of her worldly possessions: pictures, furniture, Christmas decorations, everything was washed away. She stood in front of her destroyed house and began preaching to us (who had come to minister to her). She said “God knew I didn’t need it, so he took it away... From now on I am only going to buy things that I truly NEED… I can’t justify buying things that I want... God is faithful to provide everything I NEED.” Again, I was blown away. Would I have the faith, and be content enough, to respond in the same way. I’m not sure. When I returned home, just like every other time I have returned from a missions trip, I started to take inventory of what I have, and more importantly, what I don’t need. Do I really need another pair of shoes? Millions of people in this world have never owned a pair of shoes. Do I really need a new sweater? People are freezing every day and I have 5 other sweatshirts hanging in my closet. Do I really need a new CD? No. That money could provide food for a hungry family.
Now I see that no matter how much I think I am like the willow tree, I still need to grow more flexible and quit trying to avoid the strong winds, but welcome the storms, just as I do the gentle breezes. When Paul tells us we need to learn to be “content in every situation,” he doesn’t just mean when we are wanting, but also when we have plenty. We need to quit desiring a little bit more and look at those who have next to nothing. They are our example of what it means to be content in every situation. Each time I meet them, I am reminded of that, and I NEED the reminder.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
I was truly struck by this person's opening sentence. "I don't believe in any religion, but in this tragedy I can't help saying 'God bless.' " Even without the background of religion, this person senses and asks for God to bless. I know He will.
This person can't help saying "God bless." I just can't get over that phrase. It is powerful. God is powerful.
God shows himself in tragedy, in sorrow, in sympathy, in hope, in love, in nature, in literature, in art, in blogs, in music, in smiles, in tears, in phone calls and text messages, in weddings and funerals. I can't help but notice Him and recognize Him in every facet of my life. He is ever-present. Even if we don't say "God bless," He blesses. Even if we don't say His name, He listens. He knows our names and planned our lives to the final breath. He has given us purpose and direction. We just have to listen to His "still, small voice." He will lead us. He is faithful.
I can't help but think about the students, faculty, alumni, friends and family of Virginia Tech. I can't help but cry for the loss of life. I can't help but pray to God that He would send comfort and hope and Truth and love to those who grieve and recover from their loss. I can't help, but I know Someone who can.
"I can't help saying 'God Bless.' "
Today, we are ALL Hokies.