Growing up I saw missionaries come and go in my local church. My eyes twinkled with excitement of the stories they had to tell about how they were helping in far off lands where people were hungry and hurting. At the time I had no idea what issues people really faced or that I could walk to the next street and find the same pain and sorrow as they found in their travels.
I had the opportunity to get an education and learn about social injustices. Many times I have felt overwhelmed by the great need in the world and subsequently I have ignored the need all together. Throughout life I have been inspired by the work of other individuals, books that I have read, and the arts, but Edward Everett Hale sums up what I am trying to act out now, “I am only one, but I am one. I cannot do everything but I can do something. And I will not let what I cannot do interfere with what I can do.”
I am at a place in my life where I want to be an active participant in pursuing my passions. Fortunately, God is always working in our lives and provided the opportunity for me to me to be introduced to Purchased at the time I was ready. Human Trafficking has always been something that I am both astounded by and passionate about. I recently read the book Not For Sale, by David Batstone, and was very impressed by the work being done. I was also left overwhelmed by how much work there still is to do. I have joined Purchased to do what I am able to; educate people on what I have learned, serve as an advocate, and be a voice for those who are not being heard.
Alone I cannot end Human Trafficking. But with Purchased and faith I am hoping our efforts will have a greater impact than we can imagine. This month has been declared National Slavery and Human Trafficking Prevention Month (http://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2011/12/30/presidential-proclamation-national-slavery-and-human-trafficking-prevent). How will you choose to get involved?
- Chelsea
