The Shoes

Addisu and Israel

Can you imagine being almost 20 years old, having both of your parents die, and taking on the responsibility of providing for and raising your four younger siblings? That is Addisu’s story. I had the privilege of meeting him last month in Shanto, Ethiopia.

Photo taken in Shanto, Ethiopia January 2011

On my first trip to Ethiopia in 2011 I found a pair of shoes on the ground. They belonged to Israel, an 11-year-old boy in the sponsorship program. I was able to give him a new pair from our donations. His response was tears of joy streaming down his face. I was so deeply touched at his gratitude, it changed my life, and I came home a very different person. On this trip I decided to visit his home and find out more about his life. I'd love to write a children's book about Israel's shoes, with the goal of teaching children about contentment and hopefully raise money through book sales.

Gistane (Addisu's wife), their boys, Nebiyu & Naod, Addisu, Israel,
and Abera (Israel's other brother)

Israel is the youngest of five children. When he was a very young, both of his parents died. His oldest brother, Addisu, dropped out of school, began to fill his father's role by running the family farm, and raising his four siblings. What a huge responsibility for a teenage boy! Today, Addisu is married with a precious family of his own. Three of the siblings he raised are grown and gone, but he is still taking care of Israel who is diligently attending school and working toward a sustainable future of his own. This sponsorship program is designed for children like Israel who have lost one or both parents. It gives the remaining parent or caretaker help by providing the opportunity for the child to receive an education, a daily nutritious school lunch, hygiene materials, access to medical care, and the love and support of many caring adults. I know the support for Israel over the past five years has given Addisu peace of mind. His sacrifice for his siblings inspired me so much. As a Christian it was neat to meet with other followers of Jesus and hear their story, see their faith, and be able to pray with them. I was inspired and changed once again.

Israel doing chores around the house.

 

Addisu and Gistane are still living in Addisu's childhood home, and working the family farm. They are subsistence farmers growing false banana, sweet potatoes, potatoes, and corn. They also sell in the local markets.

Alex, from Children's HopeChest, praying over Israel and his family.
Many neighbors gathered and watched while we were visiting.

Sponsoring these children, donating to projects I promote, supporting my trips is partnering with people like Addisu as they care for children in need, right in their own community. I hope their sacrifice inspires you to dig a little deeper and help me more.

In the weeks to come I am giving my fundraising efforts a bit of a facelift. I want to be more effective, see these programs grow, and impact more children and widows. I am a Christian. In the Bible, the book of James is all about how to live out your faith. James 1:27 says:

“Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.”

My desire is to be obedient and care for those in need, keeping myself from the pollution of discontentment and living a life that is all about me. I love that you are joining me. We all help in different ways. Your support means a great deal.

This is Israel and me. This young man has such a special place in my heart.