Ali Bruce, of the July 2013 T Squad, began the Race asking God to make her willing to change. She left for the race fully expecting him to reveal himself to her. She however was shocked at how personal God made himself known, among the widows of Romania.
As we pulled up to Paula’s house we were enthusiastically greeted by Paula and two of her sisters. These women were full of life and quick to laugh. The two younger sisters where home for a quick visit to help Paula paint the inside of the house and visit their mother. Although my teammate and I could not understand all of what they were saying, it was evident that these women were full of joy.
After a tour of their freshly painted rooms, Paula took us to meet their mother. As we entered the room I looked down at this sweet old lady lying in a bed.
She weighed no more than 50 pounds and her face told a story of heartache and pain.
As tears welled up in our eyes, the mood changed from joy to sorrow. Paula and the other sisters shared fond memories of their mother. They said she would always give generously when she saw somebody in need and she had been a servant to others since she was a young girl. At the age of eight Niculina’s mother passed away and she took on the responsibility of raising her younger siblings.
As I knelt down to greet Niculina, I greeted her with a kiss on the cheek and on the hand.
As Paula’s eyes swelled with tears she said “What would I do in these four walls if my mother was not here with me? We all only get one mama.” 
Everything inside of my melted as I looked at the mother and daughter in front of me. Most days it’s just Paula as the main care taker, of the gardens, animals, house chores, feeding, bathing and moving her mother.
I’m sure at times Paula questions God and wonders why her mother had to get this sick. But in this moment the unconditional love portrayed was such a beautiful image of how love works.
Love as a lifestyle, not an emotion.
Ali found God ministering to her heart as she ministered to widows. This experience is one that changed her heart towards relationships at home. She is forever changed by the need widows have in Romania, and even in her own life by living a lifestyle of love. Want to start your lifestyle of love? Apply now!
