Changing the World?

When our church first started discussing sending a group of people down to help, I personally could not put my hand higher in the air farther. What was also amazing was the fact that Lisa stood right behind me, and said "You need to do this". I will never forget the feeling leading up to February 12 that I had in me....I thought that our team was going down there to change the world. I had no idea that the trip would have so much impact on me, and that in the end, I would be the one who was changed by this experience.

A few unforgettable memories:

1. Apart from the "little" snow storm, every little detail snapped together. Logistically speaking, the entire week flowed so smoothly. That included the folks who are running Gautier Presbyterian Church, to our crew of leaders. What an awesome job!
2. I never expected to get so close to the families that we helped out. What a joy it was to see us build relationships. Yeah, their homes needed healing, but so did their hearts. It was such an overwhelming feeling to offer our shoulders, and let them know we were also there to lean on for emotional support.
3. To this day, I still think about the families - especially Norman & Rachel Patterson. I think about Norman, and his struggles with bone cancer. He soon will be resting in peace, his pain all gone...I am just glad that Ken and I had the opportunity to be a part of his life, and to bring some joy in his life....the sound of his voice saying in a southern accent "well, that didn't sound good" when the brand new counter top cracked while trying to fit it in place...priceless, totally priceless.
4. The devastation...jaw dropping...breath taking. I sure hope that we don't forget about the conditions people are still trying to survive in, and just how fortunate we are here in Pa.

I want to personally thank everyone for being a part of this. I miss being there...I miss sharing those days with you...believe it or not, but I miss sleeping on the floor...I miss going to Lowes 5 or 6 times a day...I miss the people who have crossed our paths. Although we didn't change the world, we did change the lives of 4 families...all for the good. Be proud of yourself, I know GOD is proud of you.

John Livezey