The Poverty That Surrounds Me

I have often tried to articulate what it feels like to live in a third world country. In my years here, I have met so many beautiful people, been surrounded by such needs, heard so many heart breaking stories, too much to put into words. Well, they say a picture is worth a thousand words... so try watching Slumdog Millionare. I had the opportunity to see it this weekend and was deeply moved. The story mostly takes place in Mumbai (formerly Bombay) but it may as well have been Dhaka. It's about a chaiwallah ( person who serves tea) who spent his life in the slums and whose horrific experiences gave him the answers to the questions on a TV show, where he has the chance to win a million rupees. I don't want to "give away" the story because I really want you all to watch it, especially if you are one of our friends "back home." It gives you a picture of why we are here, as well as why it breaks my heart to be here. One reason we came back is because of the words of an ancient prophet that have become my theme over the last couple of years -

" A beautiful cedar palace does not make a great king! Your father also had plenty to eat and drink. But he was right and just in his dealings. That is why God blessed him. He gave justice and help to the poor and needy, and everything went well for him. Isn't that what it means to know me?" says the Lord. (from Jeremiah 22:15,16)





This sweet little girl, pictured above, sells potholders to help support her family. We met her at the market one day and she followed us around until we were done. Not asking for more sales or trying to get anything out of us, she just wanted to be with us. It's the beautiful souls like her that really break my heart. The other day I encountered two other girls, who just wanted to talk, to shake my hand. "Who owns you?" I wanted to ask them as I sat and offered a prayer of blessing for them.

Believe me, I have my days of wondering what I am doing here, of feeling like my presence isn't making a difference, of missing my family and friends so much that it hurts, of feeling like all I have to offer is a crumb when the world around me is starving and the needs are beyond what I can meet. But, I am talking to myself now, to offer the crumb I have is better than to keep it for myself just because I feel it is too small.

Oh, and if you watch the movie, be sure to watch the credits at the end or you will miss one of the best parts! And I'd love to hear your thoughts after you watch it.