Feb
8th
Is there such a thing as too many scarves? I certainly don’t think so. I use mine as a replacement for those nasty airplane blankets. These scarves were made by a woman named Natalia, part of our micro-business program. She’s being taught how to start and run her own business, including designing clothing, producing, advertising and teaching. She’s also a recipient of a micro-loan that was successfully repaid within the loan terms.
Nicaraguan “Pashminas”
Jan
27th
I weave between rocks and puddles on the dirt roads, trying to find the correct street. Instead of the third left, I take the first and second. Wandering through barrios, my basket filled with items for my meeting. It’s a lasagna made of my cell phone, a couple mandarins, a water bottle and camera bag. I smile at the people I pass, trying to look like I know where I am going. I call Natalia twice, explaining where I am. ”There’s a big blue fence and I can see the lake.”
I feel like I can ride for miles, cooled by the strong wind that blows from the lake. I am strong on my bike, almost invincible. I hear the horns honk, vehicles warning me of their approach. I don’t realize how hot I am until I stop. I promise myself, while panting, to slow down on the return trip. By the time I leave, I’ve completely forgotten this promise. I pedal fast towards home.
Scarves waiting to be completed, January 26, 2010
Jan
12th
This past week, I’ve struggled with my purpose in this city. Am I doing enough? Am I giving enough of my time and money? Will I make a difference? This seems to happen every few weeks. Yesterday, while walking to dinner with Frank he asked me not to ignore the ways God is working in my life and the ways God is using me here. Maybe I’m not holding orphans or serving soup every day, but I am building relationship. I’m learning how to be a mentor and how to be a good friend. I’m learning what it means to be part of a team that has the same goal, changing lives for the better.
I have a standing appointment every Tuesday morning with Natalia. We spent a long time talking about this boutique we want to start, and it helped me focus. I can make a difference in her life. I can speak truth to her about who she is and what she can be. I can spend my money and time mentoring her and giving her hope.
Today, I know my purpose.
Nicaraguan Scarves
Location: Granada, Nicaragua
Taken: January 12, 2010
