Check out the charity!!

http://www.maafrikatikkun.org.za/

My Thoughts On Our Trip

As I was reflecting on this trip, why I was going, and what I expect, I was struggling for the phrase that would truly capture my feelings.  Then, the perfect phrase came to mind:  “There but for the grace of God go I.”  Growing up in an upper-middle class family in the western Pennsylvania suburbs, I never “needed” anything.  As children, our parents taught, by example, compassion, empathy, charity, kindness and perhaps most importantly, a sense of thankfulness to God for all that He blessed us with.  We were also taught that not everyone born into this world was blessed like we were. Therein lies the chasm between what I know to be true and what I’ve never truly experienced first-hand.  I think this trip will bridge that chasm-giving me an up-close and personal glimpse into that which I know but never experienced. While I’ve performed charitable work, giving my time and money to good causes, I know I have not truly experienced the poorest of the poor.  I expect this trip will also reveal to me the amazing difference our donations make to MaAfrika Tikkun and the lives of the people it serves.  I know in my heart that there’s a higher calling for all of us—to leave this world a better place.  My faith calls me to help those in need.  “But if anyone has the world’s goods and sees his brother in need, yet closes his heart against him, how does God’s love abide in him?”  1 John 3:17. 

While my visit to MaAfrika Tikkun will be brief, I trust that it will leave an indelible mark on my heart, allowing me to bring that message to my family, friends and colleagues.