This week, I caught up with an old friend. He is recently married. We talked about how his 'Daily Pat Down" has changed post-nuptials. I suppose I should explain. Before walking out of the house, most guys perform a routine pat down. Keys, phone, wallet. When you become married (and/or if you are an Aggie) this ritual gets modified to include a ring. There is no way we can make it through the day without these items. They are basic but without them we may feel naked... lost.
Well, as of late I have added an item to my list. (No I have not gotten married.) I have a little baby blue bracelet with a wood bar and the word "Hope" engraved on it. Without this little reminder throughout the day, I would definitely feel lost. I acquired this bracelet before my recent mission trip. However, it has come to mean so much more to me since.
In the past, I would see those less fortunate than me and think, "Boy they must think God has dealt them a bad hand. How do they know God loves them too? Can I show them?" Nine times out of ten, their faith is much stronger than mine. They see God's love in the simplest things. Yet for me, it would take a punch in the face for me to feel God's presence. That is, until I acquired my hope bracelet. It has not (and will not) become my idol. Instead, it has become part of my daily pat down. As I start each day, it reminds me to thank God for ALL of the blessing He has given me and my loved ones. I pray, that you decide to change you pat down in a similar manner.
"I will bless the Lord at all times: his praise shall continually be in my mouth."- Psalm 34:1
31.7.11
26.7.11
I am the rich man?
Transition has not been easy. I have been back for more than three weeks, yet the impact still lives deep in my heart. For at least three days, all of the missionaries had the same feelings. Jesus' lessons tell us that it is easier for a camel to pass through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to get into heaven. When learning this story, we never thought of ourselves as the rich. Being in Honduras, we have seen how much we have taken our blessings for granted.
This is not the end of the story. I thought once we got back, there would be nothing to write. I was terribly wrong. We have developed a bond that can not be described. We have all seen how selfish we have been and are making changes. Never before have I felt so willing to share my faith. I find myself talking about God's blessings in virtually every conversation.
When I see Joel (x2), Josue, Kristen(x2), Tony, Rhio, Archer, Savannah, Palmer, Alan, Craig and Barbara, I can't help but yell "Por Favor." The term has become out mantra... our way of remembering. It is saying, "You are loved by God. You are continually blessed. Keep remembering and continue to be a blessing to others."
My faith in Him has increased immeasurably. I have had a song in my heart for some time, but only now have I been able to give it a true voice. I was presented with an interesting challenge this past Sunday, that is a strong part of this entry. Am I living such a life, that those that know me can come to me when they have questions about Christ? I am his disciple, my life should reflect this to all who see me. I pray that my light is able to shine bright enough so that all will know that I too am a child of God.
"Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in they sight, O Lord my strength and my redeemer." - Psalms 19:14
This is not the end of the story. I thought once we got back, there would be nothing to write. I was terribly wrong. We have developed a bond that can not be described. We have all seen how selfish we have been and are making changes. Never before have I felt so willing to share my faith. I find myself talking about God's blessings in virtually every conversation.
When I see Joel (x2), Josue, Kristen(x2), Tony, Rhio, Archer, Savannah, Palmer, Alan, Craig and Barbara, I can't help but yell "Por Favor." The term has become out mantra... our way of remembering. It is saying, "You are loved by God. You are continually blessed. Keep remembering and continue to be a blessing to others."
My faith in Him has increased immeasurably. I have had a song in my heart for some time, but only now have I been able to give it a true voice. I was presented with an interesting challenge this past Sunday, that is a strong part of this entry. Am I living such a life, that those that know me can come to me when they have questions about Christ? I am his disciple, my life should reflect this to all who see me. I pray that my light is able to shine bright enough so that all will know that I too am a child of God.
"Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in they sight, O Lord my strength and my redeemer." - Psalms 19:14
2.7.11
Volvere
I put off writing about today because it is the last day. I suppose it is inevitable, so I have to write. I'll save the sappy stuff for the end.
In the morning, we welcomed the next group. They are from Kentucky. I wished numerous times that I was in their shoes. They have a week of work, sweat, love and tears before them. I pray they are able to make impacts, take in all they can and (most importantly) not forget.
We visited Casa de Esperanza first. This is the children's home that Mark started when he moved here in 2000. The facility is very suiting for any kids. Their playroom is equipped with everything a kid can dream. There were trampolines, rivers, futbol courts and swings sets ready for these troubled children to use at anytime.
The next stop was quite a fulfilling prize. The playground at Hospital Escuela had been the rage of the trip the entire week. Now, everyone was going to see what all the talk has been about. They loved it. It was a blessing to see that the work we put in was well accepted by our peers, staff and patients. As everyone looked on, I took a walk with Kristen A. And Vicky to visit some of the renal patients. There were only two kids in the room that I visited. One of them was probably three years old. He was eating a lunch, but he was all alone. I talked with him for awhile as he watched Disney channel. He looked slightly scared, but more alone. He was such a sweet child, I think I will always see his face and wonder how he is doing.
Next we made a visit to a Boys Home. It was similar to a detention facility, but the boys are not necessarily locked down. It is more of a way to keep them from making trouble on the streets. We joined the for a catered cookout. There were carnitas served. The style was very similar to the style found at a taco stand. If you want to talk about putting things into perspective, this cookout did it. I cleaned my plate and began gathering the plates of others as they finished eating. Right when I was about to dispose of the scraps, one of the boys jumped at the opportunity to take the scraps from the plates. I was floored as he enjoyed the food that we were too full to finish. His belly ached and he was more than content to eat our leftovers.
Our next stop was to the Valley of Angels. It was a tourist trap, but I was not falling for it. The group I was with decided to use the time to hang out and say goodbye. We had pupoosas. We were supposed to get professional shaves, but we ran our of time. The bus ride quite a treat. We had a great tome goofing off and singing to the radio. Then, I played DJ for Archer and Cali.
Devotion was extra special tonight. My new friend Katelyn decided to get baptized. She had been contemplating for quite some time, but I have faith that she will be quite Christian. I can't wait to see the work she does.
A few of us stayed up all night. I got the opportunity to get to know Morgan and Nurse Callie. It was quite an evening. As the night went on, it set in that we would not all be together for much longer. No more Honduran coffee. No more 'Por Favor!' No more Driver Willie. No more gringos. I no more 'Una fila'. No more karma bus and missing muscle milk...
Until next year!
In the morning, we welcomed the next group. They are from Kentucky. I wished numerous times that I was in their shoes. They have a week of work, sweat, love and tears before them. I pray they are able to make impacts, take in all they can and (most importantly) not forget.
We visited Casa de Esperanza first. This is the children's home that Mark started when he moved here in 2000. The facility is very suiting for any kids. Their playroom is equipped with everything a kid can dream. There were trampolines, rivers, futbol courts and swings sets ready for these troubled children to use at anytime.
The next stop was quite a fulfilling prize. The playground at Hospital Escuela had been the rage of the trip the entire week. Now, everyone was going to see what all the talk has been about. They loved it. It was a blessing to see that the work we put in was well accepted by our peers, staff and patients. As everyone looked on, I took a walk with Kristen A. And Vicky to visit some of the renal patients. There were only two kids in the room that I visited. One of them was probably three years old. He was eating a lunch, but he was all alone. I talked with him for awhile as he watched Disney channel. He looked slightly scared, but more alone. He was such a sweet child, I think I will always see his face and wonder how he is doing.
Next we made a visit to a Boys Home. It was similar to a detention facility, but the boys are not necessarily locked down. It is more of a way to keep them from making trouble on the streets. We joined the for a catered cookout. There were carnitas served. The style was very similar to the style found at a taco stand. If you want to talk about putting things into perspective, this cookout did it. I cleaned my plate and began gathering the plates of others as they finished eating. Right when I was about to dispose of the scraps, one of the boys jumped at the opportunity to take the scraps from the plates. I was floored as he enjoyed the food that we were too full to finish. His belly ached and he was more than content to eat our leftovers.
Our next stop was to the Valley of Angels. It was a tourist trap, but I was not falling for it. The group I was with decided to use the time to hang out and say goodbye. We had pupoosas. We were supposed to get professional shaves, but we ran our of time. The bus ride quite a treat. We had a great tome goofing off and singing to the radio. Then, I played DJ for Archer and Cali.
Devotion was extra special tonight. My new friend Katelyn decided to get baptized. She had been contemplating for quite some time, but I have faith that she will be quite Christian. I can't wait to see the work she does.
A few of us stayed up all night. I got the opportunity to get to know Morgan and Nurse Callie. It was quite an evening. As the night went on, it set in that we would not all be together for much longer. No more Honduran coffee. No more 'Por Favor!' No more Driver Willie. No more gringos. I no more 'Una fila'. No more karma bus and missing muscle milk...
Until next year!
"Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light." -Matthew 11:28-30
1.7.11
Un comienzo de Honduras
In Honduras, 7:00am really means 8:30. Though I woke at 5:30, that is the time we really got on the road. I wasn't too upset because I was able to drink three cups of the amazing Honduran coffee. It is so addicting and I don't even drink coffee.
Our first stop was to the limber yard. On the way, we picked up Josue 2.0. It was great to talk with him. He loves to talk. We all joked about driving and GPS in the US and in Honduras. Going through the limber yard was fun. We picked out our exact pieces and the people we nice and helpful. Apparently, the yard from yesterday did not have such great service. However, we were stopped on our way out because the yard inspector wanted to recount our pieces three times. Josue 2.0 and Mr. Smith were not happy about that.
The build still took longer than expected, but the decision making was better. Each person completed tasks as needed and looked for the next thing. The swings and platform were completed quickly. The time consumers were the benches. For the bulk of that time, Brian and I were visiting patients in the hospital. I found myself completely out of my element at first. After I learned how much the kids lobe 'bombas' I was a hit. I thought up all sorts of silly ways to blow up the balloons. I pretty much made a complete fool of myself to get a few smiles from some sick children. I think it was worth it. I had fun.
When we returned I was anxious to finish so I could get pictures of the finished product. I think everyone was else was too. Before we finished, the head nurses came to thank us and asked if a few children could come and play. They arrived just as we finished cleaning. At the same time, it began to rain. The words she said were so great that I was in tears. Click the following link to see what she said. Translation was performed by Josue 1.0.
Nurse Lydia's Speech
Marc led devotion. He shared his path through Christianity up to now. He told us of his reasons and reservations for moving to Honduras. Then he challenged us to write and remember our testimonies. We sang a few more songs and then hung out for awhile. I am already starting to miss my new friends. I decided to take some random shots of them to make a collage.
"Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled." -Matthew 5:6
Our first stop was to the limber yard. On the way, we picked up Josue 2.0. It was great to talk with him. He loves to talk. We all joked about driving and GPS in the US and in Honduras. Going through the limber yard was fun. We picked out our exact pieces and the people we nice and helpful. Apparently, the yard from yesterday did not have such great service. However, we were stopped on our way out because the yard inspector wanted to recount our pieces three times. Josue 2.0 and Mr. Smith were not happy about that.
The build still took longer than expected, but the decision making was better. Each person completed tasks as needed and looked for the next thing. The swings and platform were completed quickly. The time consumers were the benches. For the bulk of that time, Brian and I were visiting patients in the hospital. I found myself completely out of my element at first. After I learned how much the kids lobe 'bombas' I was a hit. I thought up all sorts of silly ways to blow up the balloons. I pretty much made a complete fool of myself to get a few smiles from some sick children. I think it was worth it. I had fun.
When we returned I was anxious to finish so I could get pictures of the finished product. I think everyone was else was too. Before we finished, the head nurses came to thank us and asked if a few children could come and play. They arrived just as we finished cleaning. At the same time, it began to rain. The words she said were so great that I was in tears. Click the following link to see what she said. Translation was performed by Josue 1.0.
Nurse Lydia's Speech
Marc led devotion. He shared his path through Christianity up to now. He told us of his reasons and reservations for moving to Honduras. Then he challenged us to write and remember our testimonies. We sang a few more songs and then hung out for awhile. I am already starting to miss my new friends. I decided to take some random shots of them to make a collage.
"Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled." -Matthew 5:6
30.6.11
De incia la construccion
"No! Oh, no. This did not happen."
"What's the matter, Joel?"
"SOMEBODY JACKED MY MUSCLE MILK!"
This is how the morning started. It has been truly hilarious. We have developed the 'Karma Bus' and currently, Joel is the victim. It will be interesting to hear how this develops through the day.
Today, I am with the group that builds the playground at the hospital. It is going to be interesting. There have been no final decisions regarding layout, program and materials. It sounds like this will be design-build at it's finest. I am the only one with design experience and I am dealing with a team of contractors. God has given me this gift, now it is time for me to use it to further his kingdom.
The work was great. Design-build in a third world country can be very frustrating. A foreman was never 'elected' so everyone had their own way of doing things. However, I think the proper people were making the decisions by the end of the day. We didn't finish, but we made great headway. I pray that we are able to finish by lunch tomorrow and then do other activities. Tomorrow starts at 7:00am.
I was taken back by one event that happened. I did not have interaction with the patients because I was focused on building. At one point, one of our nurses was sitting on the side crying. I later learned why. Two babies had just been born, both requiring the use of a ventilator. The NICU is only equipped with a single ventilator. The nurses had to choose which newborn got to live. I was at a loss for words. These are decisions that the nurses at the hospital have to make everyday.
Devotion tonight was a less intense. It started with a song that Nathan (from the farm) wrote about the common experiences with Hope for Honduras. It was a humorous way to get the evening started. The song service was very energetic and heartfelt. Caitlin had made a number of requests prior to service. It was her 21st birthday so Josue obliged.
After devotion, Archer shared photos of the many places Muscle Milk went during the day. Then, Joel began his retribution on Archer. That is all I have to say about that.
"Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted."- Matthew 5:4
"And I heard a voice from heaven saying unto me, Write, Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord from henceforth: Yea, saith the Spirit, that they may rest from their labours; and their works do follow them."- Revelation 14:13
"What's the matter, Joel?"
"SOMEBODY JACKED MY MUSCLE MILK!"
This is how the morning started. It has been truly hilarious. We have developed the 'Karma Bus' and currently, Joel is the victim. It will be interesting to hear how this develops through the day.
Today, I am with the group that builds the playground at the hospital. It is going to be interesting. There have been no final decisions regarding layout, program and materials. It sounds like this will be design-build at it's finest. I am the only one with design experience and I am dealing with a team of contractors. God has given me this gift, now it is time for me to use it to further his kingdom.
The work was great. Design-build in a third world country can be very frustrating. A foreman was never 'elected' so everyone had their own way of doing things. However, I think the proper people were making the decisions by the end of the day. We didn't finish, but we made great headway. I pray that we are able to finish by lunch tomorrow and then do other activities. Tomorrow starts at 7:00am.
I was taken back by one event that happened. I did not have interaction with the patients because I was focused on building. At one point, one of our nurses was sitting on the side crying. I later learned why. Two babies had just been born, both requiring the use of a ventilator. The NICU is only equipped with a single ventilator. The nurses had to choose which newborn got to live. I was at a loss for words. These are decisions that the nurses at the hospital have to make everyday.
Devotion tonight was a less intense. It started with a song that Nathan (from the farm) wrote about the common experiences with Hope for Honduras. It was a humorous way to get the evening started. The song service was very energetic and heartfelt. Caitlin had made a number of requests prior to service. It was her 21st birthday so Josue obliged.
After devotion, Archer shared photos of the many places Muscle Milk went during the day. Then, Joel began his retribution on Archer. That is all I have to say about that.
"Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted."- Matthew 5:4
"And I heard a voice from heaven saying unto me, Write, Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord from henceforth: Yea, saith the Spirit, that they may rest from their labours; and their works do follow them."- Revelation 14:13
29.6.11
La escribire en tu corazon
The nights here are cold and humid, but I slept well. I woke to the first Charlie horse I have had in awhile. I decided to get up and explore my surroundings. The structure and surroundings have been beautifully crafted, but not complete. It is great to see their construction methods. I am learning so much.
Today, everyone visits the dump. There is a population that lives in the dump. They scavenge for items that can be collected and resold. The situation is hard to swallow. We started by participating in devotion, led by the dwellers. After heartfelt singing and praying, we distributed water. Soon we set up a wound clinic to deal with minor injuries, headaches and itches. It was amazing to see people that were extremely grateful to have someone touch their hand and clean it. I gave one of my t-shirt to a girl whose name was Alejandra. I saw her walking and the shirt she had was ragged, thin and revealing. She was happy to see us in this dreadful place. As we left a few people had trouble because they were leaving these people to go back to their great lives. I will never forget what Joel said of one lady that said, "God bless you. I don't know why put me here, but God is good." She walked away with the smile.
After lunch, we went to Nueva Orienta, to play with the kids. I met Kevin first. He was three and simply wanted a balloon to play with. We became friend rather quickly. His olde brother was always looking out for him. Next, I met Vanessa (11) and Naomi (2). They were cousins. Naomi was so cute. Unfortunately, my funny faces scared her while I was blowing up one of the balloons. She was so adorable, but I was unable to get a picture with her. As we closed up, the kids were anxious to get toys, balloons and candy. We were mobbed. However, we were happy to spend the time with them.
Devotion was very difficult for me this evening. Joel opened his sermon by making a request of everyone. "If you don't remember anything about this trip, remember the face of someone you met during one of our services. Then, think of what it will be like when you meet them in heaven." I was already in tears and the sermon hadn't started. Kristen A. was sitting across from me and began tearing up during the sharing portion. I tried to look away, but I teared a bit as well. However, Josue was able to put all our thoughts into words. He explained how uncomfortable he was, knowing that he had a warm bed, good food and shelter, but the people at the dump do not. It was hard to imagine sleeping knowing that a few kilometers away, there were sleeping in cardboard homes with trash foundations. What do you do with that?
"And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away."- Revelation 21:4
Today, everyone visits the dump. There is a population that lives in the dump. They scavenge for items that can be collected and resold. The situation is hard to swallow. We started by participating in devotion, led by the dwellers. After heartfelt singing and praying, we distributed water. Soon we set up a wound clinic to deal with minor injuries, headaches and itches. It was amazing to see people that were extremely grateful to have someone touch their hand and clean it. I gave one of my t-shirt to a girl whose name was Alejandra. I saw her walking and the shirt she had was ragged, thin and revealing. She was happy to see us in this dreadful place. As we left a few people had trouble because they were leaving these people to go back to their great lives. I will never forget what Joel said of one lady that said, "God bless you. I don't know why put me here, but God is good." She walked away with the smile.
After lunch, we went to Nueva Orienta, to play with the kids. I met Kevin first. He was three and simply wanted a balloon to play with. We became friend rather quickly. His olde brother was always looking out for him. Next, I met Vanessa (11) and Naomi (2). They were cousins. Naomi was so cute. Unfortunately, my funny faces scared her while I was blowing up one of the balloons. She was so adorable, but I was unable to get a picture with her. As we closed up, the kids were anxious to get toys, balloons and candy. We were mobbed. However, we were happy to spend the time with them.
Devotion was very difficult for me this evening. Joel opened his sermon by making a request of everyone. "If you don't remember anything about this trip, remember the face of someone you met during one of our services. Then, think of what it will be like when you meet them in heaven." I was already in tears and the sermon hadn't started. Kristen A. was sitting across from me and began tearing up during the sharing portion. I tried to look away, but I teared a bit as well. However, Josue was able to put all our thoughts into words. He explained how uncomfortable he was, knowing that he had a warm bed, good food and shelter, but the people at the dump do not. It was hard to imagine sleeping knowing that a few kilometers away, there were sleeping in cardboard homes with trash foundations. What do you do with that?
"And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away."- Revelation 21:4
Lo Siento
We have had a bit of trouble with Internet. I have been keeping a journal of events. My life is changing by the minute. It seems like we can never do enough. There is so much need, here. This will definitely not be my last trip. I am already looking to coming back next year and projects to do from the US. I'll post more when I can.
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