Saturday, October 23, 2010

What Really Matters

Today I'm going to spend recovering from an event I helped my husband and others host at our church.  This past week my house has become disordered, so I need to work on getting it cleaned and organized.  Even though having my home tidy and organized it something I strive for, it's really a small matter in the grand scheme of things.


Last night was an amazing event.  Our church hosted a sold out (500+ tickets) concert featuring best-selling contemporary Christian artists Todd Agnew and Pocket Full of Rocks.  The concert was a fundraiser to benefit Danita's Children, an orphanage in Ouanaminthe, Haiti.  We were fortunate that the orphanage's founder, Danita, and the U.S. Director, Sheree, were able to attend. After a brief video presentation, Danita gave a very moving testimony about her work in Haiti.  As a result of this concert, Danita's Children will have over $12,000 to help feed, clothe, house, and educate her children.   In addition, at least 13 children received individual sponsors which will bless both the children and sponsors.  


It's hard to believe that just over a year and a half ago, Danita's Children was just a web site to me.  Now I have the privilege of calling both Danita and Sheree good friends.  They are incredible women, as are the missionaries who live with Danita in Haiti.  After seeing them last night, I realized I must get back to Haiti.  My husband and I have been planning a trip for some time, but haven't nailed down the details.  Now I know it's essential that we get back there, even if it's for a brief visit.  It's because as time passes, you forget about what's really important.  I find myself getting caught up in trivial aspects of living this rich American life and I forget what it's like for most of the world, especially for our neighbors, the Haitians.  I need to get back to Haiti so I can be reminded of what really matters.


2 comments:

Deanna said...

I mentioned you to a young man we sat by during our flight from OKC to Vegas this past weekend. He is a dentist in the military and was among those sent to Haiti immediately after the earthquake. He was there 3 weeks and said it completely changed his life.

Cherie said...

Deanna, it's a place that is hard to describe. My husband and I are heading back early next year. I'm looking forward to seeing the friends we've made there. It is a heartbreaking place but also very inspirational.