I hope everyone enjoyed a wonderful holiday season. Now we're back to the work but my mind still reflects back on a book I read last week entitled "Kisses from Katie: A Story of Relentless Love and Redemption" by Katie Davis and Beth Clark. It is an amazing true story of a young woman who has a heart for the children of Uganda. I would encourage anyone to read it. Katie is only 22 now but at 19, she embarked on a journey to Uganda with a burden for orphans and a heart of love and service. What has been accomplished is nothing short of miraculous and the book is her testimony of courage and faith. The nonprofit created as a result of her journey is Amazima Ministries (Luganda for "truth"). Because of her efforts, 1,600 children have access to nutritious meals daily, 14 children have become Katie's adopted daughters and 400 children who would have otherwise had no access to an education are now attending school through Amazima's supporters and sponsors. Additionally, micro-enterprise opportunities abound for women who would have been forced into prostitution or brewing alcohol for money to survive. Check out their website at http://www.amazima.org.
The take away message is that each of us have within our power to make a difference, to improve the world, our nation and our communities. We can impact the living conditions of children and families and share that every human being is a marvelous creation and important. We can do this through our caring concern, our time, resources, expertise and action. My New Year's resolution is to emulate Katie's example and be more willing to say "yes" to the opportunities to serve.
Have a blessed New Year.
Warmest regards,
Phyl
