Generosity

Throughout the day today I wondered if I would raise enough money for my Uganda trip or if I would have to pay out of pocket. Our first deposit was due and I was a little frustrated. Some of the people I thought for sure would support me didn't, and others that I hadn't even thought of poked their heads from the woodwork. I found myself trying to value and compare my work with the volunteering of others. I hate it when I think things like that, because I know each person is beneficial. Those who are paid to "hang out" with 20 year olds are just as important as doctors giving shots.

On my way home from work I stopped at Trader Joe's and struck-up conversation with the guy at the check out. I enjoyed our little chat, smiling and laughing about being tired, and it made me think... Why doesn't everyone do that? What makes some people walk around with a cloud over their heads, snapping at everyone they meet? Half the people that come into the Emergency Room are mean, unthankful, and frankly not even sick! Eek, I sound bitter. I pondered this as I drove home and thought about how I try to be like this in most areas of my life, and how my friends are too. Is this a product of something? Or are we born this way? Who knows. With a smile on my face, I drove home. I checked on my Uganda fund raising page only to see that someone anonymously donated $900, enough to cover the rest of my trip. I was and AM floored. I don't know why, but this act of generosity is meaningful to me on many levels. For one, the fact that I was able to raise enough to go and know that people support my goals and dreams is incredible. Secondly, a donation of that amount feels like a gift for all the times I have been generous. I really do try to be a giving, attentive person. Sometimes this leads to me getting hurt, feeling unappreciated, or even taken for granted. Maybe all people feel this way. But this act of generosity... it restores in me a hope. It shows me that my actions and choices do not go unnoticed, and encourages me to continue pursuing a life like Jesus. Amen.