Just as I clicked the save button on yesterday’s blog another blog worthy encounter took place. For some reason the reception in this building is extremely slow. So I had my feet propped up on one chair with my computer in my lap staring into space while the blog uploaded. Suddenly a very nice older man came up and asked how I was doing.
“I”m doing well. How are you doing today?” I replied.
“Oh good. You look bored.” he declared.
“Yeah, I’m just waiting on this Internet. It’s running pretty slow.”
Then he said something that surprised me, “Would it be alright if I gave you my heart?”
My immediate response, “Absolutely! I would really appreciate having your heart.” I think he was just as surprised by my response.
“Really? You’d appreciate it? If I give it to you just be sure not to break it.” And that’s when he pulled out this wire puzzle that had a heart hanging from the end. Turns out Clarence makes the puzzles where the pieces are all hooked together and there is a trick to getting them apart. He has built the machines to make these for him in his garage because he wanted something to do after retirement. Whenever he goes somewhere he brings a few along to hand out to people who look like they need to smile. When I told him that I would love to share this new trick while I’m on the race visiting schools and orphanages he asked for my address so he could send me 20 more. I’m so happy to have the opportunity to share this man’s heart with 11 different nations!
I also met a woman who had lived in Guatemala for 2 years and another woman who was just in Honduras visiting her missionary son and daughter-in-law. They shared their experiences and gave me some travel advice.
The women in the booths on either side of me are both very supportive. One shared my name with her church so that I might come speak to the congregation and maybe sell a few bracelets. The other has purchased items from me and is very excited to follow my blog, as well as, pray for me.
A young high school student stopped by yesterday with his mom and sisters, who bought bracelets. Then when he walked by today he stopped to ask how much money I had made. I told him how it was going and he said, “I really hope you make all the money you need before you leave.” I gave him a card and told him to look for updates on my blog.
Having the chance to hear a mother tell her two young daughters that they could choose a bracelet because it helps people have food and medicine, and it will remind them to pray for my trip, has been incredible. Actually I don’t think there is a word for it because incredible doesn’t do this feeling justice.
I’m so inspired now to leave! Selling everything, taking a year off of school, giving up my apartment, giving up a bed, no more manicures/pedicures, cutting my hair short, saying good bye to family and friends for the next 11 months is all going to be worth it. This is something I can now accept, and even thank Jesus for calling me to his discipleship.
