She loves to draw. She’s starting a new grade in school. She’s excited to meet her new teachers and new friends.
Vanessa, my Compassion girl, is a young and vibrant girl who loves to learn. And I’ve made a commitment to support her until she graduates from high school, God-willing. As long as I’m earning an income, I have no excuse not to help this wonderful girl grow and give her more opportunities in life.
In Singapore, it’s strange to commit long-term to any “charity”. I found this out first hand while going to the post office during lunch to post a letter to Vanessa. 2 of my colleagues were walking with me and when they found out the story behind the letter, they said, “Until she graduates? That’s very long? Can’t you give a one-time donation? Why so long? You’re really like an American.”
It’s strange to me that supporting a child long-term would be viewed as silly… and American? (!!). No, it’s not one nationality. It’s being a human being. Above that, it’s being a child of God who is listening to His prompting to share His love with a little girl in Indonesia.
Maybe because in the local culture, selfishness and inwardness is king. For charity works, a one-time big donation is enough. One-time donations are needed, yes, but the money runs out, and then what next? Should a child go to school for 1 year and than stop?
I believe that education opens up so many doors for these children. It allows them the chance to break out of poverty, to support their families, to have a choice. Giving them their basic needs and healthcare allows them to pursue their dreams without worrying about basic survival. Most importantly, teaching them about their Creator and King gives them eternal hope and joy… which no material thing or human being can give.
