Yesterday I had the eye opening and humbling experience of eating lunch with Pastor Shadrach and his wife Violet.

They lead a team in the slums of Mitumba in Kenya that helps orphans and kids with education, food and other necessities of life. They help the poorest of the poor in this world as part of the GOYA charity.

I thought I would share a couple of lessons that I learned listening to them talk about the conditions and children over there.

First, I noticed just how giving that a person (or a couple in this case) can be. They are a shining example of the difference that a small group of people can make in this world. The GOYA team is making a difference in the lives of hundreds of children in the slum and their heart for the children is almost unbelievable.

Second, I was reminded that some people in this world live a life that we can’t imagine. They live in unsanitary conditions, barely eat, and live each day just getting by. But the most eye opening part was that they are striving to do better, just like you and me. They are trying to work towards a better life instead of just giving in and accepting life as they know it.

Third, I was reminded of just how generous we can be here in America. They told the story of how a special offering was taken on Sunday at Eastview Church. They set a goal of raising $40,000. At the end of the day, they had raised over $200,000! In America we are a generous people. We can and do make a difference when we give. Listening to their story of how much was given reminded me that our giving to charities we care about can make all the difference to those in need.

Lastly, I was reminded to be humble and thankful. Thankful that I live in such a wonderful place and get to work with a wonderful group of people and go home to a family that loves me in a home that is warm and has all the amenities that any person could wish for. I was reminded to be humble about just how lucky I am and be as blessed as I am.

Today, remind yourself of just how lucky you are and remember to give to something you believe in.

If you want to learn more about what they have done, here is a link to a video and a link to the GOYA site:

http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=10150521773914227

http://www.goyaministries.org/

Jake