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In the Dominican Republic I learned about excess…mine.
I learned that I have more…than the whole island we stayed on.
I learned they had more…than I could possibly ever understand.
I learned simplicity…is a blessing.
I learned that from where God is sitting…we all look the same.
I learned that my skill level…does not matter as much as my desire level.
I learned I cannot make an economic change in their lives…but they can in mine.
I learned about love from people…who had only love to give.
I learned why missionaries do…what missionaries do.
I learned why beauty is as simple…as a child’s smile.
I learned candy is just as sweet…in someone else’s mouth.
I learned that even old men can learn from children…who do not speak the same language.
I learned I needed my passport validated…with God’s entry stamp.
I learned food to exist is so much better…than excess food to enjoy.
I learned why God rested…on the seventh day.
I learned how arrogant I must be…to think I gave them anything.
I learned how little some people need…to get by.
I learned that customs and culture…are part of God’s wisdom.
I learned that a fellowship of believers feels the same…here and there.
I learned sleeping in a one room shanty is different than sleeping in a five bedroom house…not worse – but different.
I learned about sharing…from those who had so little to share.
I learned how all beaches…are not the same.
I learned that God so loved the world…that he gave.
I learned the true meaning of the parable…of the widow’s mite.
I learned God is fluent…in every language.
I learned why I need reminding from time to time that I am such a small part…of a bigger picture and God is the painter.
I learned that a shovel (hammer) does not care…who operates it.
I learned that poor is not a definition…only an economic condition. I learned why worship…has no specific time or place.
I learned why I must never take for granted those things…I take for granted.
I learned I will never be the same…or normal again.
Submitted by Bob Gourley, Rock Hill UMVIM team to Venezuela.
Adapted for Dominican trip by Paula Lambert 2005/2006/2007/2008,
2009, 2010, 2011
