Counting our Blessings in a Whole New Way

 

I consider myself a world traveler. I had lived in Guatemala, Italy, Mexico and the USA, by the time I graduated form CLU. The one thing I loved about my travels was always the food. I am a self-proclaimed foodie and I am not ashamed to say that when I travel, it is all about the food. Last week though, through the Mossy Foot Project fundraiser, I was lucky to travel to Ethiopia through the eyes of Sharon Daly and her wonderful staff. I had met Sharon a few years back and her story always inspired me. What Dr. Nathan Barlow, Sharon’s father, accomplished truly is miraculous and the ripple effect of his endeavors are still being felt today. We all talk about making a difference before we leave this earth but how many of us will truly do that? Through Mossy Foot, Sharon Daly is doing that and changing the lives of many in Sodo, Ethiopia. I have found myself still talking about the evening, the food and the many ways to help. For the first time, I indulged in traditional Ethiopian food. The food made my taste buds dance!

 

My heart joined in on the fun when I heard the many ways people are being helped but it sank at the thought of how much work is still needed to be done. Think of it this way, any one of us could go into our closets and have 15 to 20 pairs of shoes. Some of us could rival a very famous Philippine first lady! However, the people that Mossy Foot Project helps have one pair of shoes. One pair of shoes that prevents the volcanic shards to imbed into their feet before causing Podoconiosis, a non-infectious type of elephantiasis. One pair of shoes until they could afford to buy another pair. Yes, I counted my blessings. How could I not count my blessings when it was clear that the things I worry about are really small compared to those of others? I don’t have to farm in red clay and risk this disease. I don’t have to worry about being ostracized, at least not most of the time, and not find work.  I do however have the means, even if they are small, to help Sharon and her team. I felt blessed immediately and inspired to help, to act.  This would not be the Not so Silent Corner you have now read for 50 weeks, if I did not invite you to get involved. Be the ripple effect that is felt by many and for many years just like Dr. Barlow. This Rotary year is coming to an end but I know next year will be full of projects and opportunities to make a difference. Look for the new President to announce his vision and join in on the fun. I challenge you to get involved. Be the change. Be the Inspiration. The choice is yours.