Why Guatemala - by Cindy Friend (Communications)
Why do you support Hope Renewed International?
Our world is full of people who are struggling each and every day. I see the pain and often feel helpless in the face of it all. I want to make a difference - I know I am not able to change the world; but I do know that I can make a difference in at least ONE life! AND if I work together with an organization that I trust, I can extend that difference to MANY lives.
But isn't there plenty of need in our own country?
Absolutely there is A LOT of need here in America. And I support agencies and causes that address that need. However, in this global world we live in, I feel there is a need for those who can (and feel called) to support and encourage the global community. America is unique and tremendously blessed. Even the poorest of Americans have significantly more wealth and opportunity than many people in our world. When I see the conditions that some of our Guatemalan brothers and sisters live in - I feel God leading me to reach out.
The need is so great - do you really feel any amount of money/support sent to Guatemala can make a difference?
Yes - I really do. I heard a message from a pastor many years ago that I will never forget. It goes like this: "A young girl goes with her parents to a beach. There were hundreds of starfish washed up on the beach after an early morning storm. The little girl looks at them and starts picking them up, one at a time and returning them to the sea. After watching her do this for quite some time, her parents say to her, 'Sweetie, there are so many, no matter how hard you try you can’t make any difference'. The little girl looks down the beach and sees the hundreds of starfish still out there. Then she reaches down and picks up another one and sets it back in the water. She looks up at her folks and says, 'I made a difference for that one'"
Each person in this world is a precious child of God.
Each person HRI impacts in a positive way - changes the world just a little bit.
I want to be a part of that - will you join me?