Pushing Back On More

If only I had more time, if only I had more money, if only I lost more weight. I catch myself thinking "if only" phrases much too often. But lately, as I have been more conscience of my failure to be satisfied with what I have and where I am in life, I have begun to push back on desiring anything more than what I have. I heard today that our society and generation is being marked by quick fixes and immediate gratification. Our society wants everything fast and has believed that we "can have it all" with no sacrifices. Well, that just is not true and I want to continue to mature in my belief that I do not want it all. I want to want exactly what I have now and enjoy each drop of joy that comes. In fact, I really love my life. Yes, today I did get peed on by my 14 month old but in general life is great. I can work from home when he naps, I get to play on a volleyball team, relax at home with my son while he plays, and well, let's face it, write this blog. And, not that I want my life to always be comfortable or easy for I would not characterize it as such since I live in the inner city of Richmond and work for a ministry here that faces the harsh realities of the urban poor (not to mention raise my son!) but I would like a simplicity about it that is dunked so deeply in satisfaction for exactly where God has me now. It is easy to see that now. I have a one year old, a great little house to care for, and a very appreciative husband. But, that could all change quickly....more children, more demands in the neighborhood, more home to care for if we ever move, more, more, more. I want to be able to resist that temptation for something new to always be happening. How do I balance that with my desire for growth, education in new areas, and improvement? As I go, friends, please help me to resist the "if onlys" and remember the belly laughs of my son, the quiet hours when he naps, and the fun nights out with my husband, even if they are watching a movie on our laptop in the backyard to save money.

Invitation to Generosity

As my fourth year with CHAT begins this month, I am amazed by all that God has done in Church Hill. It is easy to be overwhelmed with the crime reports, the failings of some participants, and the apathy of neighborhood residents. But, when I focus on the miracle of some of the CHAT participants, I am in awe. Essence, Monique and Imani have proved the power of God through their transformative lives.

Essence (pictured right with Monique and Imani) has been in my Bible study for three years now. She was a part of the first graduating class of Church Hill Academy and started community college. Her life was one of hardship – abusive families, foster care and group homes. But, she was adopted by Percy and Angie Strickland, the founders of CHAT, participated in CHAT, and has become a beautiful woman of God who excels not only in academics but is committed to being a good friend and leading others to Christ. She has grown in the Lord and even now, encourages me and teaches me truths of God.

Monique graduated and started college with Essence this fall as well. Monique hopes to be an accountant and is paying for her college through a work study program set up by CHAT so that she can stay connected to the CHAT community while receiving funds for her tuition and books.

While Imani was scheduled to graduate, she needs one more class and I will be teaching her individually this fall to finish. She did however get a job at a local childcare center and got an apartment of her own in the community.

These are the girls that I first met when coming to CHAT over 5 years ago and have watched grow into women who trust God and desire a better life. These are the leaders that we hope to raise up through CHAT – not through a certain program but through committed relationships, opening our home, and genuine love. If you are able to partner with me in God’s plan for Richmond’s inner city, please consider becoming a financial donor. Your support would allow me to offer loving, sustainable relationships that, through Christ, will change lives, the Church Hill community, and Richmond city for generations.

As a new year starts, if you are able to give, please mail donations to CHAT at 601 North 31^st Street, Richmond, VA 23223. I will be continuing on part time with CHAT with a goal of $15,000 for the next year. To learn more about CHAT, visit www.chatrichmond.org. Thank you!