Looking Forward Through the Past

The people who know me well, know that I've done some traveling outside of the U.S.

Seven countries to be exact.

These trips have taught taught me so much, have helped to shape my worldview, and have caused me to look at my own life here in America through a very specific lens. I'll admit it up front; there are days when I have a hard time being an American. Don't get me wrong, I love where I live and I appreciate those who are laying down their lives for freedom in this country.

Despite that, I know that I'm spoiled. I have to constantly remind myself that so many things that I enjoy daily are a privilege. Air conditioning is one of those things; I don't NEED it. It is not critical to my survival here. I'm confident in my perspective because I actually lived without it for two years in a very hot climate. Now, I'm not saying air conditioning is bad; if you enjoy air conditioning, you're not a bad person. I enjoy air conditioning too. I have a hard time justifying it when I know that the rest of the world is living on so little. My family is paying more for electricity in a month that some families earn in several months in the third world. That's nuts!

Children are being born hungry (as a good friend pointed out), mothers are giving birth knowing that they're unable to care for children, children are born with AIDS, entire people groups are being exterminated, children are taken from their families and forced to be soldiers or prostitutes, families are separated by rebels, and so much more...

That's a lot to think about and completely overwhelming for me. I've been blessed with so much. Funny thing though, most of the people I've met who live on less than $20 a month are truly joyful. They're so much happier than me. They're not concerned with schedules and tasks...their focus is on people.

If I focus on people, how does that change me? What would it look like if I was genuine with everyone I came into contact with, not just the people I care about? How do I make a difference in even one of the areas I've mentioned above? If I tried to make a difference, what would it look like? How will God change my life if I take steps in any of these areas?

All that to say, once a week I'm planning to share a story or experience from each of the seven countries I've had the privilege to enjoy. I hope that by looking through some past experiences, we'll gain some insight for now. I'll be sharing them chronologically. Tomorrow is country number one...Turkey!