Don't sweat the small stuff

What an amazing day we have had!  Today was day one of work at the school.  Our first impression was breathtaking. It is powerful to see how our cultures are so different.  The small things that we take for granite are things that could change this community.

We cleaned and prepped for painting this morning while supplies where being purchased for work this afternoon.  While cleaning the rooms we enjoyed seeing the children's artwork, books anod stories.  Buffy was able to see the work of the young boy she has been sponsoring for two years.  When we left this evening we had started painting in three rooms and replaced lighting.

The conditions that we are accustomed to are far above the "norm" for what we are seeing.  We live in homes that are nicely painted with carpet to walk on.  Our homes have bathrooms that are like spas.  What would we do if we slammed the door and it put a hole in the wall?  It would be on the next honey-do list!  That is what amazes us because that hole in the wall or the door with no trim DOES NOT MATTER. The Go, Go, Go made us see while waiting that they don't rush. We as Americas can't come to the culture and try and change things. Learning while sitting that this is the part of us being flexible that comes into play.

It is saddening though to see that things need to be done for their safety.  We are glad to say that we are going to leave the electrical in a lot better shape, but the roof is another big concern.  There are areas that are not even covered.  So..... what can we do?  We can pray about it because God has great things in store for this school.   

While riding on the bus today it was discussed among ourselves the we (Americans) are the ones that live different.  The USA is a small portion of this world and what we are seeing is the way of life for a big part of our world.  We are very fortunate and are seeing that in many ways.  We have all had to take a step back and ask ourselves a lot of questions. How can we help more?  What can we do to change our ways?  How can we use this experience to spread his word?

Tomorrow morning we get to participate in their church service.  This afternoon there were several groups practicing worship songs.  We sang along to

We are going to sign out tonight with one last thought.  Pastor Gary sent us out of the service last Sunday saying that he hopes we come home "messed up".  We are going to come home fired up so watch out!

by Melissa Roberts