2008

It is the last day of the year once again. I like how time is divided into measurable units because it allows for a pause; a reflection; a marking of progress, or lack thereof. Of course, as I reflect on '08 with regards to the Darfur Project, it is difficult to not go "cliche" with descriptors attempting to capture the events of this year and this project.

If you are a follower, you will know what I mean. If you are newly introduced to the project, you will see the new totals in the sidebar; the enthusiasm in the commentary, and the great media coverage by the Winnipeg Free Press and Citi TV. Bigger than that, I believe, is the impetus for all this, which was a nudging of God and the sequence of events that followed which all work together to make this the most exciting project I could have imagined. Ten thousand, six hundred, and fifty eight dollars have been raised this year to help displaced persons in refugee camps because of the crisis in Darfur, Sudan. I know that it is likely a drop in the bucket, and that there is no solution in sight, but still.... I remember Jesus saying that every time we feed the hungry and clothe the cold, and visit the lonely, we are doing these things to Him. So, we do what we can and we leave the rest to him.

Of course, the dawning of a new year automatically brings with it questions of where things will head. What goals to set; how to designate ones time; what to pour oneself into at a particular season of living.

I find myself asking those questions. Without decisive answers.

What I do know is that the project will continue. January will be slower, for sure. I am craving the time space to get to some other things that a mom with a house has to find time for.
But I don't want to lose you all; I don't want to lose momentum. In time I will know whether to auction one or three bags a week for the month of January. Or whether to auction none until February.

In the meantime, don't go too far. You've all been wonderful, and so generous with your support both financially and morally. There are people who have sent me prayers (that I often go back and read) , others who have sent fabric, buckles, buttons, and more. I don't think there are words that won't sound cliche if I try to express my gratitude and wonder.

So I'll keep it simple- Happy New Year.

Plus my favourite benediction: May the Lord bless you and keep you. May the Lord be gracious to you. May the Lord lift up his countenance to you and give you his peace. Amen.