Can one person truly make a difference? What if they are faced with overwhelming need?
Every day we see overwhelming need. Almost every day we ask ourselves if we truly can make a difference. Dotted along the black road (main highway) are villages like ours--thousands, each with minimal water, extreme poverty, high unemployment and families who may not know when their next meal is coming. How can we help them?
The reality is, we can't help everyone we see, no matter how much we long to. However, we can help those we have been brought to serve. We have orphans we can invest in, they have sponsors, education, health care, a good spiritual foundation and a hope for a better future. We also have started a bible school. Here, these students are not only learning the Word of God, but they are also getting basic training in business, electrical, sewing and ESL--all with the hope of finding a job and a better future. Even here, there are sacrifices. The small (by our standards) tuition is still a heavy load for some, so the sacrifice to come to school may include giving up a meal. Daily we see students who are hungry, yet come ready and willing to learn. With a church opening up, we see members of the community attend with very little, yet excited to be in the house of God!
So, how can we make a difference? By being here, we are able to share what gifts and talents we have with those around us. Kim's enthusiasm in meeting new people has brought smiles to those around him, laughter to the children and giggles to the bible school students. Nathan's gentle manners and passion for music is influencing the children and young adults alike. Abby already has a crowd of kids that can't wait to hold her hand, play with her and stick close. Plus, she has a dedicated group of students who want her to teach them English. Naomi's energy and enthusiasm keep up with the energy of the children here, they have found someone who will play as hard as them. If you know Naomi, you know she won't quit, either, but will give her all in everything! Joel and Ethan have a vital role in playing with the kids. The bond they have with the children is special. I am enjoying the administrative aspect, being able to find ways to take the creativity everyone offers and bring it all together. Because of the help I have around me, I don't need to shoulder the load alone. It has been great to see that our family can contribute here and make a small difference in the world around us.
There is still room for more. We can manage the day by day, but we welcome individuals, couples, families or teams who would like to see what life is like in Rwanda. If you love sports, the kids would love to learn from you, if you love teaching, the kids and bible school students could learn so much from you. What about music? Construction? Gardening? Computers? Crafts? Sewing? Business skills? Pastoral or youth? The list could go on, if you are willing, there is a place for you. You have the potential to change lives here.
In addition to changing lives, your own eyes will be opened to how the majority of the world lives. We will introduce you to beautiful land of a thousand hills, village and farm life as well as life in a children's home. We will take you shopping in the local market and take you on the incredible journey of walking to school (up hill both ways). You will see and understand life in another culture and gain a new appreciation for the blessings you have. You will also witness a peace, gentleness and spirit of thanksgiving that shines brightly.
We are about 45 minutes from the airport in Kigali, along a good highway. We have a mission house with running water, comfortable beds, warm showers and western food. Accommodations are reasonable and our family would love to introduce you to this country and people who are so dear to us. Will you change the world? Probably not, but you will have the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of people here . . .as well as have your own life changed.
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