A few days ago I received my packet from Women for Women International. I have been matched with my sister. She is a few years younger than I am, and lives in the Democratic Republic of Congo. She is married and cares for 9 children. Nine. I have two. There are times when I struggle to keep my two children's schedules straight, make sure they are doing what they are supposed to be doing, homework is done, teeth brushed, and other sundry things. Sometimes, when I get to the end of the day, I sigh heavily "glad that one's over".
I wonder though, what are my sister's struggles? She would not be part of W/W International if life was good. The DRC is a mess. Hunger, war, local violence, sexual assault as a weapon of war...I wonder how many mornings my sister wakes up and wonders whether or not those 9 children will eat? My relationship with her is not about saving her. She doesn't need saving. She needs support.
Somehow, she got herself connected to W/W International. She knows that, with support, she can do something about her circumstances. Over this next year, she has an opportunity. An opportunity that she created by signing up on the waiting list with W/W International. Over this next year, a monthly contribution (equals what we spend on pizza night for my kids) provides her with training, education, a support group, and a little financial support so she can move forward.
She isn't a name and a face in a photo. She is someone I can create a relationship with. I write to her and if she can, she will write back. We are linked. As her life changes, so does mine. This is what being a grunt, a marine in the trenches is all about. I can't wait!
Be strong, Marine Kore strong!
T.
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How are things going with your new friend? Have you been able to have regular contact and get to know her yet?
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