What is one thing I was wondering last week when we were leaving Malak Vershets (The village we lived in while in Bulgaria)?
I wondered – How do I know if I helped make a difference? I mean my team and I spent all month building a rock wall. Did we make a difference in the village? Will the people even care that we are gone?
This is what I discovered though out the month, and the day that we were leaving:
- People in the village told our contact, Marty, that they were impressed with us. They were impressed that we were working hard on the rock wall all day and didn't stop till it was finished.
- The villagers walk by everyday to see you working on the wall (you have also learned that some of them live on the other side of the village).
- The villagers were honored when we showed up to the village concert during one Saint's Day.
- We were invited to speak at different churches and youth events.
- One of the boys in the village come out everyday to play.
- One of the villagers that we worked with smiles every time we showed up.
- As we rode, walked, or jogged through the village people would wave at us.
- Marty tells us that many people in the village have commented that they wish they knew English so that they could communicate with us better.
- The villagers seem to come out of nowhere to talk to us when Marty shows up because he can translate.
- They ask if we will come back next year.
- At the bus station some people show up to say bye.
- The boy you've made friends with that month is trying not to cry because he know's you're leaving.
- You made the village your home so you are also sad to leave.
I discovered that I have made a difference. Though it may not look like what i thought, a difference was made.To all future racers, if you find yourself asking if you really are making a difference because you don;t know the language and your ministry is not relational – take it from this racer, you are!
