So sometimes I struggle with feeling unseen, unheard, not understood, and unknown. I think this helps me to see and hear people who usually aren’t seen or heard.
A good example of this is my blog about Ate Caring who works at the Lighthouse in Tacloban.
And I had more great opportunities to see and serve some more amazing and hardworking women at El Shaddai.
So there are “Aunties” and also “Uncles” who work there. And I think because usually people’s ministry is to do work and spend time with the kids, sometimes the people that come to love and serve in Jesus name don’t see them.
And I’ve noticed we don’t have to do giant, amazing things to make someone feel seen, valued, and cared for. It can be as easy as making eye contact, saying hello, asking someone how they are, learning just a few words of a person’s language, shaking hands, giving a hug, or helping someone with what they’re doing. And asking someone questions about themselves and their lives usually helps. Giving people especially people who don’t typically have the opportunity to talk about what they like, what they do, and who they are this opportunity is something we should all try to do.
Spending even a little bit of time can mean so much to someone.
Little things I didn’t think much of doing like saying hello in SiSwati, asking the Aunties their favorite colors, and carrying tea over to the table some of them were sitting at meant a lot to them.
And for Christmas each member of the squad got a Christmas present for our buddy or buddies. And thanks to the Christmas fund we were able to get a towel, face cloth, a picture, and candy for all the kids. But I also was able to get presents for the Aunties and Uncles. So I got a scarf for each of the Aunties and a face cloth and instant coffee packet for each of the Uncles. And Grace Beecher, who paints, painted on Christmas cards for them, and then I had people sign them.
It was so cool, because they were surprised to be getting anything at all. And they were so happy and thankful. Just because I thought to get them a little present on Christmas.
So I just want to encourage you to try to see people more. And know that you don’t have to do everything, but you can do something. 🙂
Much love!
