[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”3.22″][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.25″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.25″ custom_padding=”|||” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.27.4″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat”]Many times my friends ask me “what can I do to help?” Many people have great compassion for those that suffer in the world, but not everyone has time or money to give – and those that do are not always convinced they are actually making a difference.
This past weekend, I was dealing with a personal issue of my own – something we are lucky to face here in the US: what path did I want to take for my career? I have options. Choices. Even the worst decision I can make is a blessing, because I have the option to make it.
I discussed the matter with a good friend on the other side of the globe in Singapore. Someone who always relates to my desire to want to change the world. “I want to devote my life solely to helping others,” I confessed, “but I’m not sure anyone’s really listening.”
Later that day I decided to indulge in a little retail therapy and check out the clearance sale at a bookstore. I still had no real direction for what I felt was a turning point in my life. This day just felt important, although I did not know why.
I was about to leave when I happened to see a copy of the book my friend had recommended earlier that day. I figured I might as well pick it up, and headed to the check out line, sending her a message about the odd coincidence.
A few minutes later, a man approached me. He complimented my hat – a “Save Darfur” hat I have had for some time. He asked me about the conditions in Darfur and the refugee camps, and I did my best to share the information I had. It was the first time anyone has approached me with questions since I joined the i-ACT team, and it could not have come on a more significant day for me.
He thanked me, but I want to thank him. He was listening. He cares.
For those of us that put our hearts and souls into this work, knowing that can make all the difference in the world. This is one thing you can do. You can care, you can support the activists you know, you can ask questions and keep the people in the far reaches of the world in your hearts and minds. To everyone that listens and cares about Darfur – or victims anywhere:
Thank you.
Jordan Rae Lake [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]