Like a Child

Several weeks ago I had the opportunity to share some of my pictures and experiences of my summer trip to Ethiopia with my extended family. I was amazed at how captivated the children were, particularly my four 9 year old nieces. They were in tears asking what they could do to help. I asked them to follow their hearts...

They've started sewing school bags with their grandma... stitching with love, knowing that their aunt will hand deliver them to the school children who have next to nothing. This is a picture of one girl's school bag. She was so proud that she had this:


One of my little nieces made posters to hang in her neighborhood and classroom. She prints pictures from my blog and tells stories about her auntie's trip to Ethiopia. Her classmates have begun to respond in small and simple ways. They share their pennies and nickles and dimes.

As of last week they had collected a little over $3.00. She was a little shy to tell me about what felt like a nominal amount to her. But then I explained to her the impact... you see, that amount of money is sufficient to pay school fees for 2 children to attend school for a year.

She was delighted.

And motivated.

Ready to collect more.

I may get to be "show and tell" in a 3rd grade classroom when fall break is over!

Consider the impact if each of us was motivated to save our nickles and dimes? I have a jar started. And can't wait to count up my change and see how many children I can help.

Thank you for joining us in raising funds for the children and family in Dera, Ethiopia!