The panties, they are bunched…

I’m weary of it, really.  My frustration with this country’s consumerism.  I’m tired of the value placed on stuff, and I’m tired of my own covetousness, and I’m tired of being frustrated.  It’s this awful cycle.  I get my panties in a bunch about how people don’t hesitate to “treat themselves” to $200 jeans, or a $400 purse, or a $5 latte every day, but not so willing to share with those in need.

I know, I know, I’m guilty of the same thing.  Who doesn’t love delicious pumpkin spice latte every now and again?  I’ve been known to walk into that hypnosis-inducing mecca called “Target” – perhaps you’ve heard of it – for one or two things and I end up with a cartfull.  But honestly, I really do try to make it a priority that if I impulse buy, it’s something that I KNOW I will use or consume.  I don’t give a rat’s tushy about designers so most of my clothing and my kids’ clothing come from that fabulous place called Target and Kohl’s, and I gasp at shoes and purses that cost more than $25. 

But yes, I confess, I have been finding myself a bit perturbed at the people around me who sport those $200 jeans and designer purses and look at me with a tilt of the head when I announce things like our plans to host a 17 year old orphan from Latvia over Christmas, and say, “Awww!  That’s so cool!  How wonderful!” and I’m still left wondering where the heck the money is going to come from.   I should also mention that it’s also a bit frustrating to hear people complain about how poor they are as they check facebook on their iPhone 5, and write an email on their iPad.  I manage to keep my mouth shut for the most part, knowing I am guilty of coveting the same stuff and myriad other stupid things I do.  I’m human after all.   

This is where I need to take a deep breath, and go back to basics.  I believe in a BIG God, and I have seen and experienced His amazing provision in the past, and He has always been faithful.  His record is perfect, so I can trust it will remain that way.

This is in no way an attempt at guilt-tripping anyone, but since it’s out there, we ARE INDEED planning on hosting a 17 year old orphan from Latvia over Christmas.  Because she is 17, she has aged out of the system, and is no longer eligible for adoption.  This means her chances of falling victim to a life of poverty, crime, prostitution, trafficking, and even death, are increased far too much than should be.  We want to be a source of love and encouragement to her so that she knows her value and worth, and that she has hope for a bright future.  Her name is Jelena, she’s VERY Latvian looking (which makes me happy because I have been to Latvia 7 times with a group called International Messengers, teaching English and discipleship), she loves dogs, and wants to be a physical therapist.  You can check out the organization that makes all of this possible, New Horizons for Children.

If you feel so moved to help us bring her here (we are responsible for her travel expenses), you can donate here on our Go Fund Me site.

Thanks for allowing me to vent.  I feel like I can now put this to the side and quit worrying.  “Be strong and courageous.  Do not be dismayed and do not be discouraged.  For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go”  Joshua 1:9