The House You Build

I'll start with a story I shared one evening with the team as we reflected on the day's work at Jacob's Ladder in Ocho Rios, Jamaica:

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An elderly carpenter was ready to retire.  He told his employer-contractor of his plans to leave the house-building business and live a more leisurely life with his wife enjoying his extended family.  He would miss the paycheck, but he needed to retire. They could get by.  The contractor was sorry to see his good worker go and asked if he could build just one more house as a personal favor.

The carpenter said yes, but in time it was easy to see that his heart was not in his work.  He resorted to shoddy workmanship and used inferior materials. It was an unfortunate way to end a dedicated career.

When the carpenter finished his work, the employer came to inspect the house.  He handed the front-door key to the carpenter. “This is your house,” he said, “my gift to you.”  The carpenter was shocked!  What a shame!  If he had only known he was building his own house, he would have done it all so differently.

So it is with us.  We build our lives, a day at a time, often putting less than our best into the building.  Then with a shock we realize we have to live in the house we have built.  If we could do it over, we’d do it much differently.  But we cannot go back.

You are the carpenter.  Each day you hammer a nail, place a board, or erect a wall.  Life is a do-it-yourself -project: your attitudes and the choices you make today build the “house” you live in tomorrow.

Build wisely!
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These children and this organization provide me the right material to build a house that I'm proud to also call a home.  Thank you for following us this week, your support in all of its forms, and the prayers and good thoughts you've sent our way.

Mustard Seed celebrates Thank You Thursday every week.  Even though it's a Sunday, as we head into Thanksgiving I'm thankful to each and every one of you (even though we may have never met)--as well as all of my teammates this year.  May God bless you and keep you all the days of your life.

Andrew aka Sweetie Mon (8th Year)

Expectations Surpassed

One of our great expectations for this week was to see the change and progress at Jacob's Ladder. After departing Sophie's early this morning to make the hour and a half drive, we were not disappointed when we arrived. Pulling into the driveway we were immediately met with the sight of four new cottages which we later learned were constructed with the blocks made from their very own block-making machine.

After morning devotions with the residents, we went for a tour of the 152 acres of property.  Our first stop was to visit the rabbits, pigs, goats, and sheep and the open-field gardens where they grow pumpkins, callaloo, and sweet potatoes to serve as a food source for the residents of Jacob's Ladder and the other apostolates in Kingston.  As we made our way up the property, we saw the aquaponics which were a new addition since our last visit in 2011.  There is a tank of breeder fish and other tanks of farmable talapia.  The water from the tanks is also used to grow kale, corn, and scallions.

We walked past the improved water catchment that we had heard so much about the plans for on previous trips. It was exciting to actually see the finished result, which was even more impressive than we ever imagined.  Then we moved on to the greenhouses which had doubled in number since the last time we were here when some of the greenhouses had been destroyed by hurricanes.  We saw the newly planted tomatoes and walked through the rows of sweet peppers.

The final stop on our tour was the new Care Plus Center of Excellence where the residents go for different activities throughout the day.  There is an arts and crafts room, a sewing room, a kitchen for home ec projects like baking, and a computer room. Every day the residents get to choose which activities they want to do.  There is a large stage at the front of the Care Plus Center for dance rehearsals. After afternoon devotion, we were treated to a dance show from Jason and Camille who were quick to learn some new moves from Kristina.  It was hard tell who was having more fun, but we're pretty sure it was Kristina.

For our work project, we split off into three teams to paint three different rooms. We quickly learned how difficult it is to paint ceilings.  Mark's face held the evidence.

After concluding our work day, we joined the residents in the Care Plus Center for movie night and makeovers. While some settled in to watch Smallville, the girls on our team set up with makeup and nail polish for makeovers for the ladies of Jacob's Ladder.  The ladies' faces lit up as they put on their polish, eye shadow, and lipstick of choice.

Every year it always so great to see the progress that Mustard Seed has made since we had been there last.  The growth of the organization from year to year is always impressive, but this year especially there has been an increase in the structure of the day-to-day activities of the residents that highlights the direction that the organization is taking to meet the specific needs of each of the children that Mustard Seed cares for.

We can't wait to see what the future holds and to be a "rookie" again next year!

Jordan (6th Year) and Meaghan (5th Year)

Work Hard Play Hard

While I've never been a morning person, rising with the sun and enjoying the groggy company of the other members has been something to look forward to.  After a simple breakfast, the bus rides seem to be a perfect lullaby for many of the group members **cough cough Mark, Kristina, and Lisa**. I know in the past I've certainly identified with being a so-called "bus-sleeper"; however, the past couple days have been different.  Part of it has almost certainly come with the mentality that I've come to realize here with the group--the concept of savoring as many moments in life as possible, the ideal of being more present, the ability to detach myself from technology.  These are all things that are easy to forget when I get caught in my comfortable routine and forget to turn off autopilot.

For me, the past couple days have been the quintessential example of work hard, play hard.  Spending two full days at Jerusalem! has been a wonderful, albeit somewhat exhausting, treat.  I'm still amazed at how welcoming each person is there, even from the first seconds of arriving.  At home I'm usually not the type to strike up conversations with people I don't know and I tend to shy away from unfamiliar situations, but here the smiles, waves, and hugs are contagious.  Many of the kids come up to you as if you were their best friends and the instant bond is there for good.  Hearing "Hey! Uncle Mike!" and turning to see an excited wave and a genuine smile is an instant morale booster when you're balancing your 25th mound of dirt in the wheelbarrow to the nearby field.

The heat and the hard work can be draining, but the time spent playing and goofing around the kids is irreplaceable. It's amazing to see how much the kids remember about Jordan, Meaghan, and Andrew, the group's three veterans, whether it's a game that they played with them once, or a story that they told, or a silly joke.  I can't help but wonder how much my short time here will stick with them.

Realizing that it's already Wednesday night is almost surreal.  It feels like just yesterday we were lugging our suitcases and backpacks from the airport, yet at the same time I can't help but feel as though we have been here together for weeks. Each day is packed with so many unforgettable experiences, conversations, jokes, and good eats. It might be tough to leave all this soon, but that's not going to stop me from cherishing, enjoying, and savoring each and every one of the next days.

Mike (newbie)

An Amazing Experience!

Jamaica is the place where you can find peace and (if you are lucky) yourself!

Three days ago we arrived to Jamaica and to be honest with you I didn't know what to expect!  So far, it was a great experience with the children and the team!  This trip is truly wonderful and totally different from anything else I have ever done in my life!

I remember the first day when we all got together in Newark airport and even at that point we acted like a team!  The highlights of the  trip are: children in Sophie's place, Matthew 25:40, My Father's House, and Jerusalem!.

When I saw disabled children for the first time--it was a heartbreaking experience.  I wasn't sure how to act and what would be appropriate to do at that place!  I kept asking myself: what should I do? Then I looked at Andrew, Meghan, and Jordan, and they were talking to the kids, touching them (most of the children can't move!) and they just smiled at them!  I was amazed how easy they interacted. It was some sort of miracle for me!

One day later I've realized that interaction with the children is not that difficult!  Kids love attention and kindness and it was a key to communicate with them even though most of the time it was non-verbal communication.

Today we have visited Jerusalem and I fed one of the children and those 15 minutes made my day! Then I saw Matt taking pictures with 10 children around him, Mike running around with a kid on his back and two other kids were following him. In the same time Mark was playing the slaps game with the child sitting on his lap and there was one more cute kid that couldn't wait to join!

However, I want to salute to Lisa and Kristina for their contribution to today's project!  They, like true Heroines, were on top of our Jerusalem! duty till the end!  Also, I should probably have mentioned Andrew Romano and his dedication to Mustard Seed Communities!  He always gets everything done on time and he has an exceptional ability to deal with different people and their "challenging" characters.  It seems like children just love Sweetie Mon and aunties remember Andrew for years!  I felt lucky, fortunate, and special by MSC personnel treatment in Jamaica!  I wish I have more of that treatment in NYC!  Hm!  I guess that Jamaicans would take first place in the world for their warmness and hospitality!

In the end, I'm so privileged to be here right now! The trip is a journey that has already brought us to the children, to the radio (yes! we were on air!), and also to a wonderful Jamaican weather and delicious food!

Best,
Iryna (newbie)

Shifted Perspective

Where do I begin?  There's so much to tell but I'll simply start with: there's no experience like the one I'm having this week.

You might think that these are just words, but I do have a good reference.

I grew up in a pretty rough part of town where the local churches would organize trips for many of the less fortunate kids in the neighborhood.  After finally being able to go on one of the trips, I realized that I'd rather volunteer and help than just be a participant.  That was when I was 15 years old.  Over 20 years later, I still volunteer in youth programs...but, I repeat, there's no experience like the one I'm having this week.

I met Andrew via a networking group a couple years ago and heard him boast of this amazing trip to Jamaica to help the kids of Kingston.  At first. I thought it was just a trip to do some construction work to help build communities of those whose don't have the funds to.  I later found it to be much more.  Andrew collected this group of volunteers that pretty much didn't know each other, updated us and prepared us for what was in store.  He mentioned that we'd be connecting with disabled kids, kids with AIDS, and helping with various labor tasks... but what he couldn't tell us is exactly what the entire experience would be to us.

Each day, so far, has been an emotional roller coaster. From the first connection I made with local resident, Donovan, to the kids I found difficult to make connections with but really want to.  I've been filled with joy to be a part of their day, yet sad that the help I can give is limited. These connections and missed connections have been teaching me quite a bit about myself and my perspective of life has shifted.  If all I can do right now is help build a place for them to gain comfort and be present, then I'm more than glad to be here.

...and a HUGE bonus on this trip is the "Awesome" group of like-hearted individuals I'm doing this with.  Through our experience and reflection sessions, I'm learning a lot about them and hope to learn more down the line.  I'm looking forward to what the rest of this trip has in store as it's been nothing but a gift.

~matt (newbie)

Great Expectations

Whether it's your first year or your eighth, everyone comes into the trip with some sort of expectations. This being our sixth and fifth times coming to Jamaica with Mustard Seed, we figured we knew how most things would go this week. Some things are the same like the running hugs from Chrissagaye and Donovan. Many things about Sophie's Place, our home for the week, are the same, but others have changed, more than just the added water pressure in the girls' showers. As seasoned veterans eager to greet the familiar faces we have come to know so well, we were quite surprised yesterday to learn that many of the residents have been moved around to different homes. While we were disappointed not to be greeted by our old friends at Sophie's, we quickly realized that these changes reflect the growth and improvements at Mustard Seed.

Another familiar part of our routine is attending mass with the residents at the church up the street. While the church, preacher, and choir were the same, our company was different. Lucky for us, this included adorable two-year old Rasheem. The two of us oh so selflessly offered to hold Rasheem throughout the mass. He rewarded us with at least two bottles of spit up, despite not even finishing one (seriously, where did it all come from?!) Even with a soaked spit up rag we wouldn't give him to the caregivers.

There are still some familiar faces at Sophie's like Duran, Tyrese, and Moses and we are quickly getting to know and love the new residents there and are excited to see our old friends when we visit the other homes later in the week.

Another much anticipated visit for the veterans is going to see the boys at Matthew 25:40. Last year, we had a very relaxed visit where we spent a lot of time inside watching WWE. This year, smiling faces greeted us at the gate as the bus pulled up. We wasted no time and let the fun begin. Lisa and Kristina read Captain Underpants to several of the boys, while Andrew, Mark, Mike, and Iryna played football, both Jamaican and American, with the boys. The afternoon passed quickly with sweeties, laughs, high fives (or ones in some cases), and hugs.

All of our expectations being met with surprises proves that every year you really are still a rookie.

Jordan (6th Year) & Meaghan (5th Year)

We Have Arrived

So here we are, a group of 9 professionals, from different walks of life, joined together for a week of trying to make a difference in the lives of children who never had the advantages that we had. It was sorta magical getting here. Matt and I met with Andrew in Hoboken for some dinner and drinks, and got a ride from a former Mustard Seed volunteer, Kevin. Instantly, the sense of camaraderie and communal support helped get the show off on the right foot. Seamlessly, Kristina, Lisa, Mike, Iryna, Smidgen (aka Jordan), and Meghan met at the airport and the team was assembled ready for the mission ahead. Fast forward two flights, 10 hours later, and after some beef and chicken patties were already eaten, we arrived at Sophie's Place, the orphanage we were staying at.

Ready to make a difference...sounds great in your mind, but heading in, I didn't really know what to expect.  After just 20 minutes, things got pretty real pretty quickly. We took a tour of the children's cottages, and met a group of adorable kids, with all sorts of mental and physical disabilities.  What I also didn't expect was that they ranged in age from about 2 years old to 28 years old (what?). The first thing that came to mind was a great sense of appreciation for the nurses and staff that are here all year round, and the empathy, energy, and support they give every single day - often thanklessly.

Matt, our resident photographer (and fellow team member) and I then went walking the grounds to take some photos of the scenic blue mountains surrounding us, and gave an impromptu photography lesson to one of the kids here.  Amazing how quickly he was picking things up, and how we were able to communicate without really being communicate. Then it hit me, it's the little things that we're here to do. Give a litte support to the staff that is here all the time and give these kids some sort of diversion from the norm, even if it's for 20 minutes at a time. So there we are 6 more days of trying to do whatever we can to help, be it small or big, play a role and try to make each kid's day better one smile at a time.  We are ready for this mission.

Mark (newbie)

Jamaican Me Happy

Firstly, I want to thank my friends who have been so supportive and cheering me on through Facebook, text messages, and emails.  Your support via donations and showing up to our fundraising events is just plain awesome!  Special shout out to my sister Serlina who helped me raised donations on her 25th birthday, and my friend David who I haven’t seen in four years shows up to two of our fundraising events.  You guys are just supercalifragilisticexpialidocious!!!!  Okay, too many exclamations.

Instead of writing about pre-trip jitters and expectations, I would like to share the reason why I decided to join the Hoboken Cares team for this volunteer trip.

When I first read about the Jamaica volunteer trip, I was instantly drawn in about doing volunteering work in a country that I’ve never been to before.  Upon sending the email request to our team leader, Andrew, I had my doubts--I thought it would be weeks before I would get an answer or just some sort of generated response email with a "thank you for your interest."  Instead to my surprise, I got a speedy reply and an almost eager email of "what would you like to know?" and “come to our next team meeting."  So I did.

Upon walking into Andrew’s art deco Broadway office building down in the Financial District, I felt a bit under-dressed and confused…Jamaica and finance don’t exactly mingle.  Cool, fourth to arrive to the meeting.  Andrew tells me about Mustard Seed and I start to learn and understand the mission and the trip--it's about spending time with the children.  After introductions, we jumped right into sharing our Consolations and Desolations.  This was something new for me, sharing our ups and downs of the week with people I just met. I shared that I started a new job as my consolation.  For my desolation I shared that I am not religious and wondered if there would if it was okay since this is a mission volunteer trip.  Jordan, Meaghan, and Andrew instantly assured me that it this group is welcomes  all religious and non-religious to join.  I was undecided then; however, I do remember after the meeting I had feelings of fresh excitement and determination.

Fast forward to two months later (November 7, 2014):  our group and the people who volunteer for Mustard Seed are awesome.  How do I know this?  People volunteer their personal time and money to make these week long trips happen--from getting our group together and creating fundraising events to coming together for team meetings.  All this is what I admire most.  It’s been a long process; so glad to be going on this trip with a good bunch.  Not dreading that 6 am flight :)

Love,

Lisa (newbie)