I walked outside and wondered when the leaves started changing color and the rain started falling. I’ve been wearing a jacket since I came home in the summer, so that’s not a good indicator that it’s colder and the seasons are changing. It’s not surprising that I missed the subtle changes because of being so busy.
Things that I’m happy to say are changing is that I am closer to my financial goal of getting back to the DRC by the beginning of next year. Thank you. I also finished my review class in North Carolina and I’ll be taking my exam October 20th in Chicago. I’ll be happy when that’s done. And, I’m starting the preparation for going back to the Congo--gathering medical supplies, dreaming of what food items I will be able to take with me that won’t weigh too much, looking for random things like screws or cement anchors that I can’t ever find in the DRC. I’m hoping to put some things on a container that will be shipped to the DRC at the end of this year.
My attitude has also changed. I thought I would be able to encourage you, but, instead, I’ve been really encouraged and challenged by many of you and how you live your lives here in the US. I see people being deliberate about loving others. One of my friends in Philadelphia houses moms and their kids in her own home for several months until they’re able to get back on their feet again. I know another who is a high-school science teacher in the public school system who challenges kids to think about what they believe and not to seperate faith and critical thinking. Another has taken on 3 of her teenaged orphaned cousins who came from a very difficult background. I know people who faithfully pray for our country, even if they don’t agree with everything going on.
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| Playing Jenga with my friend after getting beat at checkers. |
It’s humbling. I often get this sense of awe from people because I live in the DRC, but when I think about these friends, I’m amazed at their commitment to love God and to love others here in the US. They sacrifice money, energy, their free time, peace and quiet, privacy and even risk job security because of their willingness to share their faith. These are people called to love God and love others in actions and with words, no matter the cost. And, it makes me ask the question: am I making choices and sacrificing day-to-day in the decisions I make, no matter where I live? Or, am I just living in a different place?
So, thanks. Thanks for your encouragement and what you do day-to-day to inspire me. I only mentioned a few people, but there are many more. Be encouraged that you don’t have to live in the DRC to make a difference, you are making one here, right where you live.
Michelle
Prayer:
October 20th: board exam
October-December: raising support and spending time with people.
Beginning of 2018: return to the DRC (need 100% of my support in order to set a return date)
Items wanted:
Meds- IM/IV Methotrexate, cytotec, Methylene blue, IV labetalol, IV propofol, po Clindamycin, IV Ceftriaxone, po Bromocriptine/Dostinex
Equipment-vacuum extractors, amnio-hooks, sterile gloves 6.5, 7 or 7.5, nonsterile gloves M and L, tape to mark surgical instruments, foley catheters any size, acorn cannula x2, SIS catheters, umbilical catheters
Other-I really am looking for a potter’s wheel and possibly a small, wood-burning kiln. Nails, screws, anchors, bolts, hinges, duct tape, electrical tape, gorilla glue, and tools. Any bathroom or kitchen faucet that is in good, working condition.
If you’re interested in getting me some of those items, I can get you an address to send them to.
Giving:
I’m at about 35% of my goal to raise 100% by November 1st.
Two ways to give:
- Online at: https://serge.org/staff/id-51412/
- Checks made out to Serge and sent to:
Donations Processing Center
PO Box 1244 Albert Lea MN 56007-1244
- Put my name or account number (51412) on the check
- There is a form attached with the information
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