I feel nothing, I know nothing, I am nothing – Myanmar mission

Organizing small Christian communities open doors to reach out to people who are needy, neglected and unschooled living in extreme poverty. In the process of journeying with the people, I get to know them more and discover how silence and submissiveness is deeply embedded in their culture. Passivity is very evident they do not bother to ask questions or to inquire about things. They are dependent on authority figure. They live in fear for so long. Risk –taking and dreaming for the future seemed not part of their life.

Because of this reality, I feel nothing, I know nothing, I am nothing. So I cling on God’s hand. I am dependent on him; I cannot do anything without him. Prayer meditation in silence become the source of energy and inspiration for me. This led me to be more flexible and put down my expectations. I am only His instrument. The more I cling to God the more I understand their struggles. I become one with them.

In the process of empowering people to take leadership roles in the community, education formation, skills training, faith-life sharing is important. It is basic for people to be aware of their role in community building and in shaping their future. Building small Christian communities in pre-dominantly Buddhist villages is a challenge. It takes time before people could see and realize their part in a community. This has taught me patience, perseverance and dependence on God.

Seeing a group of 35 families who took the risk to start income generating project and gained profits is inspiring to others and gives hope that change can happen. This has helped them build self-confidence and also become example to others. Little by little they are now learning to express themselves in meetings.  More and more youngsters wanted to go to school and this is also a positive sign for these communities to grow. In His time, God will make it happen.-Emily Valdez 8/30/2018