Defining Moments of Life

January 2011

Shanto, Ethiopia

What amazes me about this picture is the fact that I took it before I had ANY idea how it would impact my life.

The small classroom, made of mud walls and floors, had been packed with almost 100 people.  Backpacks of gifts had been handed out amidst lots of giggles, smiles, and joy.  Children and staff at a small Christian school in southern Ethiopia were rejoicing over the gifts and visit from our team.  The room emptied and I stayed behind to photograph a sponsor and their child.  After they left I found myself alone.  I glanced down and saw those shoes lying on the mud floor.  I picked them up, inspected them, set them on the desk, and took that picture with NO idea how my life would change.

I suspected that the owner of the shoes had outgrown them; I headed out to find the owner.  I asked a teacher to help me.  As the children all sat waiting for their lunch the teacher held the shoes up and spoke in the local language.  Soon a boy, around 11 years old, walked up.  His name was Israel.  I took him aside and was able to find him a used pair of shoes from our donations.  I washed his feet, gave him some socks and made sure the shoes fit.  Then I sent a VERY happy child off to join the others for lunch.  What happened next changed my life.

A few minutes later I walked over to take more pictures of the children while they ate lunch.  I noticed Israel in the background, head down, fidgeting with his new bag.  I walked over and realized he was crying.  My first thought was that something was wrong; I led him to a teacher who translated for me.  Israel was happy, those were tears of joy.  

A young boy's joy over a used pair of shoes was a defining moment in my life.  I knew I could not return home and ever live my life the same.

Today is GIVING TUESDAY.  After all the crazy shopping we are asked to give.  I personally think GIVING TUESDAY needs to come before BLACK FRIDAY, CYBER MONDAY, and the holidays in general.  Giving should come first.  

Thanksgiving is about thankfulness for all we have been given.  

Christmas is about the greatest gift of all, the birth of our Savior.

However, I don't think our society is going to follow my idea so I'll go with the flow and ask you to give today; please give to my little friends in Ethiopia.  To read more about the $15,000 I am striving to raise this holiday season follow THIS LINK.