It all starts with passion and I have finally found what I am passionate about. My passion is making a difference in child welfare. And "the journey of a thousand miles begins with the first step." I keep thinking to myself, "what is my first step?" I believe I have found my first step. I've applied to become a volunteer at an organization called, CASA (court appointed special advocates). Every step towards helping with child welfare is a step closer to what I want to do. How I can be a change maker.
We always seem to think we know what's going on in the world. Going back to school after my mission has been a big wake up call. I've realized that I don't know squat. I've traveled to other countries and I might know a little about their culture but what do I really know about them? Almost nothing. I want to make a change but how am I supposed to if I don't know the facts? In a humorous but fact shocking Ted talk we find that we don't know what is really happening around us. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sm5xF-UYgdg) In this video Hans Rosling said, "The best way to know about the future is to know about the present." We all basically have this innate desire to help others. Its just who we are but how can we if we don't know what to do to make a difference. Almost all of us have heard the quote by Ghandi, "Be the change you wish to see in the world." Don't get me wrong, this is one of my favorite quotes but I've now realized we to need to KNOW to be the change.
One thing everyone needs to read is the story of Tim Ballard. (http://ldsliving.com/story/78169-rescuing-children-from-sex-slavery-one-mormons-inspired-mission) He has found his passion and has coupled it with the gift and power of the Holy Ghost. Our Heavenly Father loves every single one of his children and he truly wants to see His children help one another. Tim Ballard is an amazing example of this. He says in his article, "Every child is precious. We can't solve this problem overnight, but by just saving one child, we can give them back the life that God intended for them." Every child, every person deserves a better life than abuse, human trafficking, poverty and we have the opportunity to make a difference. The spirit is key in this journey because the Lord will guide us in the direction we need to be. In a talk given by Silvia H. Allred in April 2011 she said, "Heavenly Father loves us and knows our unique circumstances and abilities. Although we seek His help daily through prayer, it is usually through another person that He meets our needs." He isn't here personally but he wants us to personally show the love He has for each one of His children. It all starts with one step.
