"..Once you do, everything changes."

"Orphans are easier to ignore before you know their names. They are

easier to ignore before you see their faces. It is easier to pretend

they're not real before you hold them in your arms. But once you do,

everything changes.

-From the book Radical by David Platt

Do you realize that there is an estimated 145 million orphans world wide?

Does that number sink into your brain or even seem real? Do we take time to really think that, that number is real? Do we take time to imagine all the faces that make that number a reality?

The answer to all of those questions were "no" for me before I ventured to Lesotho in 2009. I would read in various books or see in slideshows at conferences, these kinds of numbers or statistics, but they always seemed distant and cold. To maybe put it into a little better perspective, an estimated 145 million people populate the country of Russia. So, imagine Russia being fully populated....with orphans alone.

Before I went to Lesotho, I admit I felt pity for orphans, but the pity never really sank in or stayed in my mind for very long. Besides, I would always think to myself, those numbers couldn't be real...could they? The reality is, the numbers are real. I saw only a glimpse when I was at Ministry of Insured Salvation. I saw the faces, the lives, and the hearts of only a small percentage of these orphans. I was a part of their lives and they were a part of mine. I showed them new things, and they definitely taught me many.

When I came home, it was impossible for me to forget them. It was impossible for my heart not to break when I read the numbers and statistics. Because I knew, that the kids I have grown to love so much, and have a passion for at MIS, where part of those mind blowing numbers. It was impossible for me to do nothing. Suddenly that number hit closer to home than ever. Those were my kids. And everything....changed.

Africa 2011!

To my utmost excitement, I feel the Lord calling me back to Africa again. It has been on my heart for a few months now, and after emailing the Dimmocks (the family I stayed with in 2009), I feel confirmation to go back. I will be Iiving with their family again and volunteering at MIS every day. I will be working as a mission intern of Ministry of Hope Lesotho (Le-sutu). I will have various responsibilities while I am there. I will be in charge of background research to determine which kids at MIS are adoptable. I will be doing picture taking and scrap booking for the children who are already cleared for adoption, so that they will have a memory book to take with them to their new families. Also, I will be working with kids who are in intensive care or in nutritional or medical rehabilitation at MIS. I am a little nervous knowing that I will be working with kids in intensive care. You never know what situations the kids come from or how severe their conditions may be. However, I am very excited to see what God has in store for me while I am there!
This morning I got a very, very special email from Mrs Nancy. Here is what is said:

Dear Amber,
I’m just back from MIS – took some adopting parents from Holland to visit. We were inundated with kids, since it was a Sunday afternoon – everyone clamoring for hugs and attention. And out of the blue Seipati and his big brother came up to me and asked, “Do you know Ausi Amber?” I said, ‘Yes.” And they asked, “When is she coming to see us?” And I was able to say, “As a matter of fact, she is trying to come visit in April!” They were very excited about that possibility. Just wanted you to know that you are not forgotten!
Keep us posted on plans as they develop.
Love,
Mrs. Nancy

Overwhelming tears of joy and happiness rolled down my checks after I read it. It has been two years since I have seen Seipati. Nothing makes me happier than to know that he still remembers me. It was also a huge confirmation for me. The original plan was for me to leave in June, but because of conflicting schedules (the Dimmocks having a busy month of packing for their return to the States in July, and I in my best friend’s wedding in May),my trip is being pushed up to April. I know I am supposed to go back, but I won't lie and say that it has been a little nerve racking knowing that I have to raise all the money for my plane ticket in a months time. Never the less, I know He is in control and He will work out all the details and provide everything I need. I am very ready to be with my precious kids again, especially Seipati and his family.
Also some very exciting news...I sent a check to MIS for $397.71 from Seipati's Hope!!! I cannot wait to see how this will bless my beautiful kids. He is Good.
Until next time...
-Amber

MIS 2009