Hope - expectation, desire with anticipation, believing and knowing - that which is dreamed of can happen - not that it is guaranteed, but is possible, can happen.
While in Ethiopia, we were the guests of an non-governmental agency who has been working, on the ground, with the people of Ethiopia since 1998. As we learned about the primary programs of Life In Abundance (LIA,) we had the privilege of meeting and talking with many of the individuals with whom LIA works. During our brief time there, we were able to visit in the homes of about two dozen families. Every program LIA provides is offered in partnership with the local church in that community.
The goal...move individuals to a place of self-sufficiency in 3 years-by the end of that program!
I have to admit, I was leery as to the ability to move an individual from homeless or unemployment to self-sufficiency in a mere three years! While I entered the country with a sense of skepticism...I left with nothing but admiration and amazement. I am thrilled to say that I was proven wrong - and proven wrong time after time, home after home that we left. Oh, that we could implement this plan with our homeless and unemployed!
Besides hope, the other thing I saw in so many of these individuals were characteristics, qualities, and traits of a leader. What follows in these blog posts are the incredible stories against all odds, the stories of hope, the stories of perseverance, of flexibility and creativity. Self-respect, excitement, ambition, and dedication. New confidence, enthusiasm, inspiration, and responsibility. You will see integrity, character, opportunities, and most importantly - choice. The choice to make a different decision. A new decision to choose a different path than they know and have been walking. A path to self-sufficiency for them and their family. A path to education. A path to employment. A path to leadership and success!
Thank you for joining me on my journey to Ethiopia and witnessing the transformation of so many lives!
