I think for most of us, we're always looking for something.
Whether it's the next move, from Atlanta to New York and back again, for the job that pays our bills or the people that make our days feel full ... for another soul to connect with, the friend who doesn't have to say anything, the always present "Me, too"... and when someone sees your heart and wants nothing more for you to find what feels like has been missing, ... or has yet to arrive.
Our hearts long for connection and purpose … so in my life’s searching, Africa has given me a sense of belonging and purpose that is unlike anything else I've known.
It is not an easy or comfortable calling and I honestly still do not know what it means for my life’s journey– It is a privilege that I do not deny, one that begs me to listen and remain open and faithful but that is far from easy.
Most people cannot understand the desire to travel across the globe to third world countries, for less than average conditions, subjecting oneself to unfamiliar hazards like yellow fever, typhoid and malaria … Yet, I long for returning to this place. For meeting beautiful joy-filled people and learning their stories, for holding precious children who do not know the love of a family let alone human connection … I yearn to be a tiny glimmer of hope that sees and affirms that they, just like me and you are valued, even the most vulnerable of us.
I am grateful to say that I'm journeying to Rwanda the day after Christmas with GoBeLove International. As I wrestled for the past year and a half on what was next for me, when and where to go and how, this place made an impression on my heart. A small African country known in modern history as a place full of tremendous heartbreak, there is also so much hope and redemption alive today.
Our time will be split between Kigali, the capital of Rwanda and Gisenyi which is located on beautiful Lake Kivu that borders the Democratic Republic of Congo. While in Rwanda we will partner with in-country ministries and spend multiple days with each.
As a nation Rwanda has made a commitment to move orphans to families and to keep families together and the ministries we partner with in Rwanda all work towards this goal. This trip speaks to my heart for orphans and vulnerable children and desire to learn how to serve more effectively.
Journey with me as I continue to seek this path - your encouragement, support & desire to see me Go make all of this possible.
xo,
Mandy
“Sometimes you cannot believe what you see, you have to believe what you feel. And if you are ever going to have other people trust you, you must feel that you can trust them, too-- even when you’re in the dark. Even when you’re falling.”
― Mitch Albom, Tuesdays with Morrie
