I'm a day late posting the blog for yesterday (Saturday), but I just couldn't manage to open the computer last night. I simply wanted to sit, enjoy some more time with a few members of the team, and reflect on what we just experienced.
The day we leave Jamaica is always difficult. We leave with mixed feelings because we are our best selves when we are there, serving God alongside the amazing people of Mustard Seed. But I know the whole team is eager to return home to share our stories and challenge ourselves to be those same best selves amid the pace and distraction of our "normal lives".
Our Saturday started with some time together around the breakfast table before we packed up and said goodbye. That simple joy- time together- is something I value so much about this week. Then we said goodbye to the kids at Sophie's Place and loaded the van one last time. On our way to the airport I sat in the back and just watched the team. I always enjoy seeing how the team changes during this week and how individuals grow. So I sat back and watched once again with a smile on my face knowing that every member of this team is so special and has answered a call that is not an easy one to answer. They all have taken the challenge to be the ones that change the world and I am absolutely sure they all will. How they will is going to be unique to each of them, but I know they have been touched by Mustard Seed and will touch others because of it.
After we got in the car to come home from the airport, it struck me that I was not an emotional wreck like I often am after this experience. It became clear that the emotions weren't as raw, and I wasn't overwhelmed to see NYC and be brought back to the pace and noise of the city. The why became clear right away. When something like this moves from being just an experience to being part of your life, you know it will never go away. Mustard Seed is now part of who I am and my time in Jamaica is a piece of my lifestyle that just is. I go, I come back...I go, I come back. And more than anything, I try to live what I see and feel every single day. It is just an experience if it is about the eight days that we are there. It changes to being part of your life when it moves beyond that.
Seven years ago, Mustard Seed and Kingston, Jamaica were new things to me. And now as I am about to renew my passport, I hesitate to get rid of the old one because each of the nine stamps of entry into Jamaica tell a story. Each trip has had a profound impact on my life. Each time I was there I changed. Each experience was alongside others that have gone on to have an impact on so many lives. And each mission opened my eyes to the stories of the caregivers, staff, and others that are the engine of Mustard Seed.
On the flight home yesterday, Andrew came up to me and asked me to go with him to the back of the plane. We spent the next half hour standing in the galley telling the flight crew about Mustard Seed and our work in Kingston. Everything was so fresh in my mind and the details just poured out of my mouth. And they stood there listening, crying, and sharing in the experience with us. One of the flight attendants grew up in Kingston and she shared with us her story of how she emigrated to America. As she talked, she suddenly looked up and told us that she could have been one of the kids we care for at MSC had one or two decisions made by her or her family in her life been different. That was so real and so raw, and it highlighted how necessary the work of MSC really is. Then one of the other flight attendants who was from Guyana asked if MSC would ever be in his home country as he told us about the needs there. What's startling is how many countries need the work of MSC. They need an organization that is willing to take a risk and make sure that no child is abandoned twice. That every human life is so precious and will be taken care of no matter what disability they have or what has happened in their life. That is the challenge of the faith we live- to tell these stories, make sure people's eyes are open, and to call people to action.
A new day has started for this team from Hoboken. Everyone that made the trip this year had been on our trip before. That means that all of them have moved from this being an experience to being part of their lives. They know what that means and they know what the challenge becomes for each of them. As we all spend the next few days reflecting and figuring out what our next steps are in our lives, I know that we will all look forward to going home. Yes, we may be "home" in Hoboken, but Kingston has truly become our other home. It is where our hearts feel full and we get to walk in Jesus' footsteps. We get to be witness to faith in action and join in that action. The question, not only for us but also for each of you reading this, is where do we go from here? What do we do with these stories? How do we take action?
I wish I had the answers. But honestly, I don't. I pray every single day that God will direct me to where I am supposed to be and what I am supposed to be doing. But if all of us keep our hearts open and allow ourselves to be moved by these stories and experiences, we will hear the call to action. And I am truly inspired and thankful for all of the people that have already responded to that call. To this team, I thank you for you. Each of you has touched my heart and inspired me with your humor, affection, compassion, and action. You are the change that I wish to see in the world.
Michael
Sunday, November 6, 2011
Saturday, November 5, 2011
The End of the Journey
Today was Friday…our last day of work here in Jamaica. The team went to Mustard Seed’s new Apostolate, St. Anthony’s, to help make final renovations before its official blessing on November 18th. We saw some old MSC friends such as Peter, Brother Anthony, Nadia, and Mr. James. As promised, this was probably the most physically challenging day. We were given the tasks of digging a trench (18”x15”) for a new picket fence across the yard, digging out the foundation of two statues of St. Anthony and Mary with a Child, general cleanup of the entire landscape (rocks, logs, & concrete debris), and mowing the lawn. With lots of teamwork and the help of the girls from Mary’s Child, we completed all of our work.
Before we return to our lives in the hustle and bustle of New York City, there is one thing that we would like to remember. Work can be stopped for prayers but prayers should not be stopped for work. This is clearly a message that God wants us to bring home. During morning devotion at St. Anthony’s, Brother Anthony discussed how we find so much time for work but don’t seem to be able to make prayer the same priority. Kevin worked away from the group today at My Father’s House on the office computers and during midday devotion, Monsignor Gregory brought that same point, about 30 minutes away. He even requested that this message be posted throughout all of Mustard Seed Jamaica. When we return to New Jersey/New York, this is the message we want to bring home.
This trip puts your entire life in perspective. You look at the day-to-day stresses that we endure in the corporate world in a completely different light. TyTy, year after year, is content playing the “steal your nose and eat it game.” Dwight is happy when you hold his hand and show him your watch. The kids at Matthew 25:40 just want to jump on your back and spin around. The “Golden Girls” of Sophie’s Place just want you to sit with them for a short while and tell them how beautiful they look and they’ll smile for hours. Cedric is excited about being part of the team and pushing a wheel barrow. Monique wants someone to sit next to her. Akeem likes to show his powers as a ladies’ man….all it takes is one wag of the finger and the girls come flocking. What’s to stop us from being happy with the simple things and just being?
We will miss the kids. We will miss the sun. We will miss the unconditional love. We will miss building relationships. We will miss doing God's work in Jamaica. We will miss helping people. We will miss people smiling about what we're doing. We will miss making valuable lifelong relationships. We will miss the team. We will miss simplicity. But, we will take back with us the lessons that Mustard Seed has taught us this week. Our hearts, thoughts, and prayers are with the children, the caretakers, the inspirations, administrators, and employees of Mustard Seed Communities.
- Meaghan (Two Year Veteran) and Kevin (Six Year Veteran)
Thursday, November 3, 2011
Thank You Thursday
Thursdays in the Mustard Seed world are known as Thank You Thursdays. One way Mustard Seed thanks us for our efforts is to give us a day of restful activity--activities that help refresh our bodies, minds, and spirits.
Here is a recap of what we got to experience today:
Our day began at 2:45am--yes, as in morning (or still night, depending on your perspective). We had some coffee and breakfast snack and were out the door by 3:30am so we could make it to My Father's House by 4:00am for morning devotion and mass. It was a quiet ride down the mountain and through Kingston. This year, as with every other, there was loud reggae club music playing as there is a "street club" on the same block as My Father's House (Mustard Seed's headquarters). We sang, prayed, and celebrated mass before the sun was up. In today's homily, Father Garvin shared a story about his time in Zimbabwe: there is a program where 500 children are fed daily. They all line up to receive their meal and then sit down--and without fail, they all wait until the last child is served before they begin eating. Father used this as an example of how we should be--that is, celebrating your day with your brothers and sisters, ensuring everyone has what they need before celebrating. After mass we prayed the rosary, which is always special because it is led by the children. Some are barely audible, but the children wait very patiently as those children make their way through their Our Father's and Hail Mary's--it never ceases to touch your heart in a unique way.
After mass we were treated to a wonderful breakfast prepared by our security guard for the week, Kevin, and our trip coordinator, Leroy. They made us eggs, aki and salt fish (the Jamaican national dish), banana fritters, breadfruit, fried plantains, and various boiled greens--after 3 1/2 days of hard outdoor work, this was a pleasant meal. I got to sit with Mike, Carla, and Father Garvin; Father talked about the direction of Mustard Seed, and told us many stories of life in Zimbabwe (where he's been for many years).
After breakfast we went back to the chapel for morning prayer, and were treated to a surprise song performed by the little first graders (very cute). We then perused the Mustard Seed pottery shop (they make everything at My Father's House--an impressive operation) and then got to visit with the children who live at My Father's House, most of whom are severely disabled and wheelchair-bound. Suzanne, Karin, and Gretchen helped feed some children their breakfast; Teri played with one rambunctious boy who was particular infatuated with her camera; Meaghan, Bridget, Smidgen (aka Jordan) made their way around to various children and sat with them one by one; Kevin stopped in the office to see what computer help they needed; Mike and Carla briefly attended Mustard Seed's monthly management meeting; and I, assuming my role as Sweetie Mon, brought out some sweeties for the children who could take solid food. One of our favorites is Dwight, a guy in his 20's who is always smiling and with whom Kevin has a special bond. Cesco and I played catch with one of the girls, teaching her many end zone dances (shake your legs; the Heisman stance; spin the ball and warm your hands over the fire; etc.)--she was having a blast!
We left My Father's House and headed to pick up our lunch on the way to the beach for a few hours. We made a quick roadside stop for coconut juice (stick a straw straight into a fresh coconut) and some sugar cane. With Island Grill food loaded in our industrial-sized cooler, we drove 20 minutes to Fort Clarence Beach, a private beach on the south side of Kingston. We were just about the only people there, so we had ample opportunity to relax on the sand or in the water, and let our muscles unwind. We broke for lunch and enjoyed jerk fish, jerk chicken, barbecue chicken, festivals, pumpkin rice, and calalloo rice. It was one of our quietest moments all week as we all feasted and enjoyed the sounds of the ocean. I won "palest missionary" for the fifth consecutive year (my skin thanks me).
After relaxing for three hours, it was back to work. But this work did not require shovels, gloves, or paint brushes. We headed to Matthew 25:40, the home for the pre-teen and teenage boys with HIV/AIDS. A number of these boys are close to every member of our team, as those of us who've been coming for 3+ year have gotten to see these boys grow into young men.The newest addition to the boys home was a basketball hoop (really, a plastic crate with the bottom cut out). But it worked well! I played basketball with Cesco and two of the boys (Ramon and Shane), followed by me winning the inaugural game of H-O-R-S-E. That quickly devolved into Mike pretending to be Shaq, rejecting every shot the 4'6" boys would put up.
Gretchen and Karin found plenty of takers for some soccer; others worked with some of the boys on their homework, and Kevin and Bridget got to see their sponsor son, Boom-Boom (aka Brian). Normally they would get to see him at Jerusalem!--where we worked yesterday--but Boom-Boom was at the doctor's all day. It's always nice to see their reunions because all three seem at their happiest when together.
Cesco and I bonded with Sheldon, one of the older boys who comes to help with the children. Sheldon captains his high school rugby team from the scrum-half position, so we talked rugby, football, and similar things. Cesco gave him his football, and I gave him my aviators. Before leaving, he taught all the girls how to Dougie (if you do not know this craze, you can search for many videos of it on YouTube). It always takes a good 10-15 minutes to leave Matthew 25:40 as neither we nor the boys want to part ways.
We returned to Sophie's Place, and before dinner got to play with and feed the children there. It was particularly special to see the progress Donovan has made: this time last year he was about six years old and constantly hitting and headbutting the other children; this time around he was polite, except to his dinner which he scarfed down very aggressively!
We ate a light dinner of fish (heads removed) and rice before our reflection. Just prior to that, though, we learned that one of our favorite children from Sophie's Place, Stephan, had recently died. There are a number of current and past team members who bonded with him. Stephan never spoke, but he was quite good at fist-bumping and motioning his arms to say "Come here." Smidgen summarized the latter with a picture she took of Stephan two years ago when she first met him: he had both arms outstretched on the day we left for the airport, and Smidgen has kept that picture at her desk as a reminder of why and for whom she is annually beckoned by to come back to Jamaica. We reflected on why we continue to come back year after year, knowing that most of the children we see do not have a comparatively long time in this life. To sum everyone's thoughts, we keep coming back precisely because these children do not have a lot of time, and part of our mission with these trips is to help enrich their day, week, and life for having met them--just as they do to us.
Now it's time to rest up for one final day of good, hard labor at St. Anthony's in downtown Kingston, the newly-acquired Apostolate that is focusing primarily on educating young women who otherwise could not afford a quality education.
Such are the bittersweet moments of a trip like this:
- it can feel weird taking a few hours to enjoy the beach, but it's a healthy pause amidst the long hours we have and will put in with construction projects and time with the children;
- it is sad to say goodbye to children you know you will not see for about a year, but it means you and they have formed a bond that something like a year cannot disintegrate;
- it can feel a little odd spending a few hours playing basketball, soccer, and football with the HIV/AIDS children, but serving them is not just building and repairing their homes, but also building up a positive outlook on life so they grow to positively influence everyone around them;
- it is sad to hear that one of the children you know has died, but you keep working because there are hundreds (within Mustard Seed) who are counting on your continued efforts.
This is the struggle we all go through in life with just about anything worthwhile: most of that which is worth attaining must be fought for--and if won, must be daily fought to protect.
A bittersweet day for a group of 13 young professionals from Hoboken, NJ--but it's a serving of life that probably cannot be prepared any other way.
To all of our family, friends, and strangers reading along this week--THANK YOU (and not just because it is still Thursday) to all of you for your thoughts, prayers, and everything you do for those of us you know and love and those of us you've never met. We are a day of labor and one flight away from being back home, ready to continue this work and share it with all of you.
God Bless,
Andrew Sweetie Mon Casper (Five Year Veteran)
P.S. Chris and Wendy, I hope my nephew has arrived safely. I cannot wait to meet him! Love you all.
Here is a recap of what we got to experience today:
Our day began at 2:45am--yes, as in morning (or still night, depending on your perspective). We had some coffee and breakfast snack and were out the door by 3:30am so we could make it to My Father's House by 4:00am for morning devotion and mass. It was a quiet ride down the mountain and through Kingston. This year, as with every other, there was loud reggae club music playing as there is a "street club" on the same block as My Father's House (Mustard Seed's headquarters). We sang, prayed, and celebrated mass before the sun was up. In today's homily, Father Garvin shared a story about his time in Zimbabwe: there is a program where 500 children are fed daily. They all line up to receive their meal and then sit down--and without fail, they all wait until the last child is served before they begin eating. Father used this as an example of how we should be--that is, celebrating your day with your brothers and sisters, ensuring everyone has what they need before celebrating. After mass we prayed the rosary, which is always special because it is led by the children. Some are barely audible, but the children wait very patiently as those children make their way through their Our Father's and Hail Mary's--it never ceases to touch your heart in a unique way.
After mass we were treated to a wonderful breakfast prepared by our security guard for the week, Kevin, and our trip coordinator, Leroy. They made us eggs, aki and salt fish (the Jamaican national dish), banana fritters, breadfruit, fried plantains, and various boiled greens--after 3 1/2 days of hard outdoor work, this was a pleasant meal. I got to sit with Mike, Carla, and Father Garvin; Father talked about the direction of Mustard Seed, and told us many stories of life in Zimbabwe (where he's been for many years).
After breakfast we went back to the chapel for morning prayer, and were treated to a surprise song performed by the little first graders (very cute). We then perused the Mustard Seed pottery shop (they make everything at My Father's House--an impressive operation) and then got to visit with the children who live at My Father's House, most of whom are severely disabled and wheelchair-bound. Suzanne, Karin, and Gretchen helped feed some children their breakfast; Teri played with one rambunctious boy who was particular infatuated with her camera; Meaghan, Bridget, Smidgen (aka Jordan) made their way around to various children and sat with them one by one; Kevin stopped in the office to see what computer help they needed; Mike and Carla briefly attended Mustard Seed's monthly management meeting; and I, assuming my role as Sweetie Mon, brought out some sweeties for the children who could take solid food. One of our favorites is Dwight, a guy in his 20's who is always smiling and with whom Kevin has a special bond. Cesco and I played catch with one of the girls, teaching her many end zone dances (shake your legs; the Heisman stance; spin the ball and warm your hands over the fire; etc.)--she was having a blast!
We left My Father's House and headed to pick up our lunch on the way to the beach for a few hours. We made a quick roadside stop for coconut juice (stick a straw straight into a fresh coconut) and some sugar cane. With Island Grill food loaded in our industrial-sized cooler, we drove 20 minutes to Fort Clarence Beach, a private beach on the south side of Kingston. We were just about the only people there, so we had ample opportunity to relax on the sand or in the water, and let our muscles unwind. We broke for lunch and enjoyed jerk fish, jerk chicken, barbecue chicken, festivals, pumpkin rice, and calalloo rice. It was one of our quietest moments all week as we all feasted and enjoyed the sounds of the ocean. I won "palest missionary" for the fifth consecutive year (my skin thanks me).
After relaxing for three hours, it was back to work. But this work did not require shovels, gloves, or paint brushes. We headed to Matthew 25:40, the home for the pre-teen and teenage boys with HIV/AIDS. A number of these boys are close to every member of our team, as those of us who've been coming for 3+ year have gotten to see these boys grow into young men.The newest addition to the boys home was a basketball hoop (really, a plastic crate with the bottom cut out). But it worked well! I played basketball with Cesco and two of the boys (Ramon and Shane), followed by me winning the inaugural game of H-O-R-S-E. That quickly devolved into Mike pretending to be Shaq, rejecting every shot the 4'6" boys would put up.
Gretchen and Karin found plenty of takers for some soccer; others worked with some of the boys on their homework, and Kevin and Bridget got to see their sponsor son, Boom-Boom (aka Brian). Normally they would get to see him at Jerusalem!--where we worked yesterday--but Boom-Boom was at the doctor's all day. It's always nice to see their reunions because all three seem at their happiest when together.
Cesco and I bonded with Sheldon, one of the older boys who comes to help with the children. Sheldon captains his high school rugby team from the scrum-half position, so we talked rugby, football, and similar things. Cesco gave him his football, and I gave him my aviators. Before leaving, he taught all the girls how to Dougie (if you do not know this craze, you can search for many videos of it on YouTube). It always takes a good 10-15 minutes to leave Matthew 25:40 as neither we nor the boys want to part ways.
We returned to Sophie's Place, and before dinner got to play with and feed the children there. It was particularly special to see the progress Donovan has made: this time last year he was about six years old and constantly hitting and headbutting the other children; this time around he was polite, except to his dinner which he scarfed down very aggressively!
We ate a light dinner of fish (heads removed) and rice before our reflection. Just prior to that, though, we learned that one of our favorite children from Sophie's Place, Stephan, had recently died. There are a number of current and past team members who bonded with him. Stephan never spoke, but he was quite good at fist-bumping and motioning his arms to say "Come here." Smidgen summarized the latter with a picture she took of Stephan two years ago when she first met him: he had both arms outstretched on the day we left for the airport, and Smidgen has kept that picture at her desk as a reminder of why and for whom she is annually beckoned by to come back to Jamaica. We reflected on why we continue to come back year after year, knowing that most of the children we see do not have a comparatively long time in this life. To sum everyone's thoughts, we keep coming back precisely because these children do not have a lot of time, and part of our mission with these trips is to help enrich their day, week, and life for having met them--just as they do to us.
Now it's time to rest up for one final day of good, hard labor at St. Anthony's in downtown Kingston, the newly-acquired Apostolate that is focusing primarily on educating young women who otherwise could not afford a quality education.
Such are the bittersweet moments of a trip like this:
- it can feel weird taking a few hours to enjoy the beach, but it's a healthy pause amidst the long hours we have and will put in with construction projects and time with the children;
- it is sad to say goodbye to children you know you will not see for about a year, but it means you and they have formed a bond that something like a year cannot disintegrate;
- it can feel a little odd spending a few hours playing basketball, soccer, and football with the HIV/AIDS children, but serving them is not just building and repairing their homes, but also building up a positive outlook on life so they grow to positively influence everyone around them;
- it is sad to hear that one of the children you know has died, but you keep working because there are hundreds (within Mustard Seed) who are counting on your continued efforts.
This is the struggle we all go through in life with just about anything worthwhile: most of that which is worth attaining must be fought for--and if won, must be daily fought to protect.
A bittersweet day for a group of 13 young professionals from Hoboken, NJ--but it's a serving of life that probably cannot be prepared any other way.
To all of our family, friends, and strangers reading along this week--THANK YOU (and not just because it is still Thursday) to all of you for your thoughts, prayers, and everything you do for those of us you know and love and those of us you've never met. We are a day of labor and one flight away from being back home, ready to continue this work and share it with all of you.
God Bless,
Andrew Sweetie Mon Casper (Five Year Veteran)
P.S. Chris and Wendy, I hope my nephew has arrived safely. I cannot wait to meet him! Love you all.
Wednesday, November 2, 2011
Progress
Today we worked at Jerusalem, a large Apostalate located in downtown Kingston.
After 4 days at Jacob's Ladder, getting to know the rural grounds and older residents at this place we have only briefly visited on past trips, pulling into Jerusalem was very much like coming home. Familiar places where we've worked in the past, smiling little faces that keep us coming back each year... Being there just felt right.
It's always fun to revisit the projects that our Hoboken Cares team has finished over the years. This is my 4th trip, and with this group I've knocked down damaged buildings and cleared debris from areas where new buildings now stand, spread tons of top soil so the kids now have grass to play on, painted buildings and created sidewalks and did lots of other little and big projects that simply needed to be done. The work is hard, and we love it. We love knowing we are making a difference in the kids' daily lives. We love that the caregivers and administrators consistently tell us that we are the best team, that they say they saved their most difficult projects for us, and that they always seem amazed when we finish the work ahead of schedule and ask for more. The praise is not necessary, but it is welcome after a hard day of physical labor.
What struck me today, as we visited the various areas of the Jerusalem Apostalate, was the progress that has been made by Mustard Seed over the past year, without us. There's a new "Play Room" there for the mentally and physically disabled children, complete with rubber flooring, educational toys, and lots of clean space to play. The youngest HIV Positive children have moved into the new Martha's House area, and seem happy and settled. The addition of an Early Childhood Center means that the children start organized learning earlier. There's a thriving vegetable garden where there was previously just an open field. Even the 900 chickens that are maintained for eggs and meat seemed heartier and healthier in their large chicken coup. And that's not to mention the progress and projects in the works at Jacob's Ladder and the other Apostalates.
The truth is that as hard as our team works while we are here in Jamaica, there are hundreds of Mustard Seed Communities' employees who work even harder when we are not. Their vision is one of self-sustainability, growth, premium care, and everlasting love, and watching that vision come to life is awe inspiring. Being part of that vision is a blessing that I will continue to thank God for it during the rest of the week, and every day until I can come back again.
Teri (Four Year Veteran)
After 4 days at Jacob's Ladder, getting to know the rural grounds and older residents at this place we have only briefly visited on past trips, pulling into Jerusalem was very much like coming home. Familiar places where we've worked in the past, smiling little faces that keep us coming back each year... Being there just felt right.
It's always fun to revisit the projects that our Hoboken Cares team has finished over the years. This is my 4th trip, and with this group I've knocked down damaged buildings and cleared debris from areas where new buildings now stand, spread tons of top soil so the kids now have grass to play on, painted buildings and created sidewalks and did lots of other little and big projects that simply needed to be done. The work is hard, and we love it. We love knowing we are making a difference in the kids' daily lives. We love that the caregivers and administrators consistently tell us that we are the best team, that they say they saved their most difficult projects for us, and that they always seem amazed when we finish the work ahead of schedule and ask for more. The praise is not necessary, but it is welcome after a hard day of physical labor.
What struck me today, as we visited the various areas of the Jerusalem Apostalate, was the progress that has been made by Mustard Seed over the past year, without us. There's a new "Play Room" there for the mentally and physically disabled children, complete with rubber flooring, educational toys, and lots of clean space to play. The youngest HIV Positive children have moved into the new Martha's House area, and seem happy and settled. The addition of an Early Childhood Center means that the children start organized learning earlier. There's a thriving vegetable garden where there was previously just an open field. Even the 900 chickens that are maintained for eggs and meat seemed heartier and healthier in their large chicken coup. And that's not to mention the progress and projects in the works at Jacob's Ladder and the other Apostalates.
The truth is that as hard as our team works while we are here in Jamaica, there are hundreds of Mustard Seed Communities' employees who work even harder when we are not. Their vision is one of self-sustainability, growth, premium care, and everlasting love, and watching that vision come to life is awe inspiring. Being part of that vision is a blessing that I will continue to thank God for it during the rest of the week, and every day until I can come back again.
Teri (Four Year Veteran)
Tuesday, November 1, 2011
The Big Question
Happy birthday Max! (from Andrew)
Now on to today's blog...
This is my sixth trip to Jamaica with Mustard Seed and I have never met anyone like Sandy. As you probably already know, Jacob's Ladder is a home for adults with severe disabilities who have nowhere else to go. Often the hardest part of being here is learning to see past the disabilities as they appear in adults -- the physical deformities, limited communication, ticks, drooling, screaming, and all the other things that come along with these disabilities -- and see that each of these is a child of God with a soul. It is much easier to see this with the kids we usually work with, but there are no kids at Jacob's Ladder.
Sandy is different from all of the other residents here at Jacob's. She wears a wide smile and is ready to talk to you about any topic at hand -- what she prefers to eat, her friends, her past, her dreams, and her ambitions. In terms of her mental capacity, she is no different from you and me. Like any other 22-year-woman, she is interested in dating and thinks about her place in the world around her. She is lonely, though, because she is the only resident here who can communicate these thoughts.
Sandy came here in March and she told me it is very hard for her because she doesn't have anyone to talk to. Her mother abandoned her when she was six because of her cerebral palsy (a relatively minor case) and she has been in homes since then. She started to cry as she told me this from her wheelchair, which is a plastic patio chair screwed onto a base with wheels. I cannot imagine the faith and strength it takes to face each day in Sandy's world.
Michael and I decided to see what her reading levels were like and we administered an assessment my teachers use in New York. Sandy scored on a third grade level, which may seem low, but we were both blown away. We think there may be a better place for her at Mustard Seed where she can use her talents to help others and to grow herself.
Sandy makes me think about my calling as a follower of Jesus. I have been very blessed in my life in every way a person can be blessed. I can use these blessings to make the world better, if I choose to. So the big question is... Am I doing my best to use my talents and blessings to help others everyday? And the bigger question... Are you?
~ Carla (Four Year Veteran)
Now on to today's blog...
This is my sixth trip to Jamaica with Mustard Seed and I have never met anyone like Sandy. As you probably already know, Jacob's Ladder is a home for adults with severe disabilities who have nowhere else to go. Often the hardest part of being here is learning to see past the disabilities as they appear in adults -- the physical deformities, limited communication, ticks, drooling, screaming, and all the other things that come along with these disabilities -- and see that each of these is a child of God with a soul. It is much easier to see this with the kids we usually work with, but there are no kids at Jacob's Ladder.
Sandy is different from all of the other residents here at Jacob's. She wears a wide smile and is ready to talk to you about any topic at hand -- what she prefers to eat, her friends, her past, her dreams, and her ambitions. In terms of her mental capacity, she is no different from you and me. Like any other 22-year-woman, she is interested in dating and thinks about her place in the world around her. She is lonely, though, because she is the only resident here who can communicate these thoughts.
Sandy came here in March and she told me it is very hard for her because she doesn't have anyone to talk to. Her mother abandoned her when she was six because of her cerebral palsy (a relatively minor case) and she has been in homes since then. She started to cry as she told me this from her wheelchair, which is a plastic patio chair screwed onto a base with wheels. I cannot imagine the faith and strength it takes to face each day in Sandy's world.
Michael and I decided to see what her reading levels were like and we administered an assessment my teachers use in New York. Sandy scored on a third grade level, which may seem low, but we were both blown away. We think there may be a better place for her at Mustard Seed where she can use her talents to help others and to grow herself.
Sandy makes me think about my calling as a follower of Jesus. I have been very blessed in my life in every way a person can be blessed. I can use these blessings to make the world better, if I choose to. So the big question is... Am I doing my best to use my talents and blessings to help others everyday? And the bigger question... Are you?
~ Carla (Four Year Veteran)
Monday, October 31, 2011
A special relationship
Happy Halloween from Jamaica!
Christina: After a great breakfast of pancakes & fresh scrambled eggs we had morning prayers with the residence of Jacobs Ladder (JL). Morning prayers at JL is unlike anywhere else at MSC. The residence here are older than what we are used to and they are severely mentally and physically disabled.
Francesco: Michael is one of the residents who can actually communicate with me (somewhat). He rubs his belly and will say "full" to let you know he just ate. His voice is deep, yet friendly. Michael likes to watch us work and help out. He seems happy to have us here and isn't shy to jump in and help out.
Christina: I first met Michael at My Father's House 5 years ago, on my first service trip. He is very affectionate and loves to sing praise to God. He loves to give hugs and always wants me near him. If I try to say hello to another resident he'll quickly pull me back to stay with him. He blows air kisses to me too.
Francesco: Michael even tries to kiss me!!! He'll pucker his lips up real strong and tight and blow me an air kiss. Man, if that happened back home I don't know what I would do!!!...but here I play along and blow a kiss back because these kids are coming from a fun loving place. They are so innocent. They don't have as much as us but they are so happy.
Christina: Spending more time with the people at JL makes me think of my sister who is a special education teacher. She tells me stories of her students and the difficulties she has during her workday. I commend the caregivers here who work so hard to take care of these residents. They feed them, bath them, praise with them, chase after them and so much more. Most of all they show them love and patience. What a lesson that is to me!
Francesco: While mixing concrete with Andrew, Michael came alongside me with an empty wheelchair and motioned for me to get in. He took me for a ride to the area where we were mixing concrete and I began to work. When I looked back I saw him sleeping in the chair like he just had a long night of partying. It was pretty cool that he wanted to push me around before taking his afternoon nap. He doesn't have anything to give me like food or a cup of coffee like a friend back home would offer me if I was at their home...so instead, he offered me a ride in a wheelchair to show me love. He's a really cool guy.
Christina: JL wasn't the first place I would have chosen to come to but now that I'm here I don't want to be anywhere else. JL is magical and lots of things are going on here. After a long day of the team working on painting the missions house, cleaning the area around the well and making new stairs, a rainbow appeared over the mountains. I think that was God's way of saying He is pleased with what we are doing here. I'm happy and so very proud to say we are a part of the JL team.
Christina: After a great breakfast of pancakes & fresh scrambled eggs we had morning prayers with the residence of Jacobs Ladder (JL). Morning prayers at JL is unlike anywhere else at MSC. The residence here are older than what we are used to and they are severely mentally and physically disabled.
Francesco: Michael is one of the residents who can actually communicate with me (somewhat). He rubs his belly and will say "full" to let you know he just ate. His voice is deep, yet friendly. Michael likes to watch us work and help out. He seems happy to have us here and isn't shy to jump in and help out.
Christina: I first met Michael at My Father's House 5 years ago, on my first service trip. He is very affectionate and loves to sing praise to God. He loves to give hugs and always wants me near him. If I try to say hello to another resident he'll quickly pull me back to stay with him. He blows air kisses to me too.
Francesco: Michael even tries to kiss me!!! He'll pucker his lips up real strong and tight and blow me an air kiss. Man, if that happened back home I don't know what I would do!!!...but here I play along and blow a kiss back because these kids are coming from a fun loving place. They are so innocent. They don't have as much as us but they are so happy.
Christina: Spending more time with the people at JL makes me think of my sister who is a special education teacher. She tells me stories of her students and the difficulties she has during her workday. I commend the caregivers here who work so hard to take care of these residents. They feed them, bath them, praise with them, chase after them and so much more. Most of all they show them love and patience. What a lesson that is to me!
Francesco: While mixing concrete with Andrew, Michael came alongside me with an empty wheelchair and motioned for me to get in. He took me for a ride to the area where we were mixing concrete and I began to work. When I looked back I saw him sleeping in the chair like he just had a long night of partying. It was pretty cool that he wanted to push me around before taking his afternoon nap. He doesn't have anything to give me like food or a cup of coffee like a friend back home would offer me if I was at their home...so instead, he offered me a ride in a wheelchair to show me love. He's a really cool guy.
Christina: JL wasn't the first place I would have chosen to come to but now that I'm here I don't want to be anywhere else. JL is magical and lots of things are going on here. After a long day of the team working on painting the missions house, cleaning the area around the well and making new stairs, a rainbow appeared over the mountains. I think that was God's way of saying He is pleased with what we are doing here. I'm happy and so very proud to say we are a part of the JL team.
Sunday, October 30, 2011
Just Be
So.... during last night's reflection, we discussed our consolations, desolations, and hopes for the upcoming week. There seemed to be a common theme amongst all of us, one by one, as we circled around the room. The theme was how hard it is to leave our lives at home behind - whether it be our hectic work schedules, our families or our everyday comforts & routines - and embrace the simplicity of "just being".
Today we were trying to just be... by waking up and enjoying the gorgeous Jamaican mountainside and wonderful coffee. By joining the local community for mass and being welcomed with open arms and song. By taking in the natural smells of the farm such as cow manure, dead frogs and headless chickens. By jumping into our first task of cleaning debris and grading land around the new well (and boy were we happy to find out that is not where our drinking water was currently coming from). By not worrying what time it was or how dirty we were getting. By working as a team and appreciating each and every person that is here....
We aim to let go of our stresses back home so we can love the children of Mustard Seed with open hearts, provide the support the caregivers need, work physically as hard as we ever have, and completely embrace the opportunity to give of ourselves to others.
~ Gretchen and Suzanne (Three Year Veterans)
Today we were trying to just be... by waking up and enjoying the gorgeous Jamaican mountainside and wonderful coffee. By joining the local community for mass and being welcomed with open arms and song. By taking in the natural smells of the farm such as cow manure, dead frogs and headless chickens. By jumping into our first task of cleaning debris and grading land around the new well (and boy were we happy to find out that is not where our drinking water was currently coming from). By not worrying what time it was or how dirty we were getting. By working as a team and appreciating each and every person that is here....
We aim to let go of our stresses back home so we can love the children of Mustard Seed with open hearts, provide the support the caregivers need, work physically as hard as we ever have, and completely embrace the opportunity to give of ourselves to others.
~ Gretchen and Suzanne (Three Year Veterans)
This Year Is Different
Every year when the team leaves on the trip it rains. This year was different though - we escaped just in time to miss the snow. It was different and set the tone for this trip being different than any other.
After an early morning, quick trip to the airport, seamless check in and an overall uneventful flight, we arrived in Kingston. We piled 13 bags, plus 2 carry ons each, into the familiar white Mustard Seed van and set off on our journey, stopping only once for some delicious chicken and beef patties. Normally we'd be en route to Sophie's Place, but this year was different.
Up through the windy roads and down a long dirt path, we arrived at Jacob's Ladder. All veterans of this trip, we all have had the opportunity to see this community, which houses adults over 18 with disabilities, come further into being each year and have been nothing but impressed with it's progress.
After we settled into our beautiful new residences for the next few days, we exchanged pants for shorts and went on a tour of this truly majestic community. The chapel is taking shape - the two stories are getting built up, the tile is being laid on the floor, and we all paused a moment to feel the presence of God, while taking in the scenery of rolling hills that surround us. Next we moved on to tour the farm, picking up a few residents who were excited to join us on the tour. Chickens, pigs, cows and rabbits. The expansion plan to make this community self-sustaining is impressive. We walked over to the pond, past the huge greenhouses, all the while taking in the beautiful land around us.
After a long day we returned to our residences, to catch up, relax and journal. In the evening we reflected on our highs and lows of the day and also our hope for the trip. Mine was to be here, live here, experience life here, be open to the different and new experiences of this trip and simply live in the present.
While we have all been on this trip before we are challenged to live, not in the shadow of trips before or what awaits us back home, but to create new experiences here, to serve and be open to the challenges of this week.
~ Karin (Two Year Veteran)
After an early morning, quick trip to the airport, seamless check in and an overall uneventful flight, we arrived in Kingston. We piled 13 bags, plus 2 carry ons each, into the familiar white Mustard Seed van and set off on our journey, stopping only once for some delicious chicken and beef patties. Normally we'd be en route to Sophie's Place, but this year was different.
Up through the windy roads and down a long dirt path, we arrived at Jacob's Ladder. All veterans of this trip, we all have had the opportunity to see this community, which houses adults over 18 with disabilities, come further into being each year and have been nothing but impressed with it's progress.
After we settled into our beautiful new residences for the next few days, we exchanged pants for shorts and went on a tour of this truly majestic community. The chapel is taking shape - the two stories are getting built up, the tile is being laid on the floor, and we all paused a moment to feel the presence of God, while taking in the scenery of rolling hills that surround us. Next we moved on to tour the farm, picking up a few residents who were excited to join us on the tour. Chickens, pigs, cows and rabbits. The expansion plan to make this community self-sustaining is impressive. We walked over to the pond, past the huge greenhouses, all the while taking in the beautiful land around us.
After a long day we returned to our residences, to catch up, relax and journal. In the evening we reflected on our highs and lows of the day and also our hope for the trip. Mine was to be here, live here, experience life here, be open to the different and new experiences of this trip and simply live in the present.
While we have all been on this trip before we are challenged to live, not in the shadow of trips before or what awaits us back home, but to create new experiences here, to serve and be open to the challenges of this week.
~ Karin (Two Year Veteran)
Friday, October 28, 2011
"We must be willing to let go of the life we have planned,so as to accept the life that is waiting for us." - Joseph Campbell
In preparation for our trip we have talked a lot about what we are looking forward to as well as what we are challenged by facing this year's trip. Many of us, myself included, have trouble "letting go" without knowing what is around the next corner. By nature I am a planner; to the point where among my friends it has become a joke that I say "tomorrow is my only free day".
The focus for the entire team this year is to "just be" while we are in Jamaica and live in the moment. Each of us has experienced Jamaica in the past but we've never experienced it in 2011 as a part of this team. The past 2 years I have even slept in the same exact bed at Sophie's Place (I think something along with that planning nature also makes me a creature of habit). But as I face this trip to begin in just over 12 hours I know a brand new adventure awaits. While some of the kids will be the same, some will have made drastic changes for the better or sadly taken a turn for the worse. There may be new children changing the entire dynamic of a home. There will be new laughs, new tears, new songs and new jokes because it's a brand new trip. Now it's time for the whole team to let go of our worries, our cares and our schedules and embrace the adventure of Jamaica 2011.
I may have planned on going to mass one evening back in the beginning of 2009 when I first learned about Hoboken Cares but I could never have planned how this trip has changed my life.
The focus for the entire team this year is to "just be" while we are in Jamaica and live in the moment. Each of us has experienced Jamaica in the past but we've never experienced it in 2011 as a part of this team. The past 2 years I have even slept in the same exact bed at Sophie's Place (I think something along with that planning nature also makes me a creature of habit). But as I face this trip to begin in just over 12 hours I know a brand new adventure awaits. While some of the kids will be the same, some will have made drastic changes for the better or sadly taken a turn for the worse. There may be new children changing the entire dynamic of a home. There will be new laughs, new tears, new songs and new jokes because it's a brand new trip. Now it's time for the whole team to let go of our worries, our cares and our schedules and embrace the adventure of Jamaica 2011.
I may have planned on going to mass one evening back in the beginning of 2009 when I first learned about Hoboken Cares but I could never have planned how this trip has changed my life.
Thursday, October 27, 2011
Ready to Change
Have you ever wondered what your life is all about? Have you wondered why you go to work every day and why it's so important that you show up before your boss and leave after him? Have you ever wondered why you HAVE to have those adorable shoes or that tv bigger than a small car? Have you ever wondered what would happen if you just stopped doing the same thing every single day?
Thirteen men and women have wondered. Thirteen men and women have found that after a very scary leap there is an incredible world out there that looks nothing like they thought. Thirteen men and women have answered the call and gone to Jamaica to live without luxury, to do hard labor, and to have the best vacation of their lives.
Those thirteen men and women are changing our world because God, working through Mustard Seed Communities, changed their hearts.
They are doing amazing things in this world from reading books to kids to working at soup kitchens to being board members for non-profit organizations.
This year we ask you, our friends and family, to join us in changing our hearts to change the world. Are you ready to have God change your heart? Are you ready to change the world? Join us not only on this journey for this week but for the journey of our lives that is taking a drastic turn starting today.
Thirteen men and women have wondered. Thirteen men and women have found that after a very scary leap there is an incredible world out there that looks nothing like they thought. Thirteen men and women have answered the call and gone to Jamaica to live without luxury, to do hard labor, and to have the best vacation of their lives.
Those thirteen men and women are changing our world because God, working through Mustard Seed Communities, changed their hearts.
They are doing amazing things in this world from reading books to kids to working at soup kitchens to being board members for non-profit organizations.
This year we ask you, our friends and family, to join us in changing our hearts to change the world. Are you ready to have God change your heart? Are you ready to change the world? Join us not only on this journey for this week but for the journey of our lives that is taking a drastic turn starting today.
Tuesday, October 18, 2011
Trading Suits for Shovels
For most people, when summer ends and the leaves begin to fall, thoughts turn to pumpkin-picking, halloween, and cozy sweaters. But for those of us on the HobokenCares team, autumn means preparing to head down to Kingston for our annual trip to work with Mustard Seed Communities (MSC). This will be the 7th trip for the HobokenCares team, and it will be the first time that the group consists entirely of veterans. And while it might seem that the ritual of one week in Jamaica has become familiar, each trip is always very different, and always has a profound effect on our lives in so many ways.... we hope you will share the journey with us again through this blog.
We head to Jamaica on October 29. Please keep us, and the children and caregivers at Mustard Seed, in your prayers as we finish our preparations this week.
http://hudsonreporter.com/view/full_story/16055371/article-Trading-suits
We head to Jamaica on October 29. Please keep us, and the children and caregivers at Mustard Seed, in your prayers as we finish our preparations this week.
http://hudsonreporter.com/view/full_story/16055371/article-Trading-suits
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