Next month, I’m going to Liberia!
I have never been to Africa, and it’s been decades since I’ve gone on any kind of trip that could be considered humanitarian or service oriented. Mostly, I have felt that I can respond to the suffering of the world by hearing stories, giving, and supporting others. But after years of friendship with Jackie (Executive Director) and reading The Hope Project’s newsletters, it’s time to go see this amazing school for myself.
In Liberia, one of the world’s poorest nations, only 60% of children have access to education due to the prohibitive cost of education. The Hope Project serves almost 1500 Pre-K-12th grade students, employs 70 Liberian teachers and staff, and offers vocational training, night school for adult community members, and a campus medical clinic.
Recently, I heard the story of 17-year-old Morris. Both of Morris’s parents are deceased and he has a small room in a home he shares with his older brother and sister and 10 other extended family members. While everyone else in the home is still sleeping, Morris wakes at 4am and studies until 6am. He then does an hour of chores before he walks the 45 minutes to school where he is captain of the quiz team. He eats just one meal a day, in the evening, and manages to be cheerful and hardworking all day long despite only drinking water. What keeps Morris happy and motivated is the chance to go to school.
Though I’m a pretty sunny person, I do my fair share of complaining. I complain about our crumbling democracy, the high cost of food, and my long commute in the rain. I complain about how hard it is to win all my own work. I sometimes have waves of self-doubt or victimhood and envy people who make more money than me or seem to move through the world with more ease.
Morris’ story makes me stop in my tracks. I can’t wait to meet him and so many others, and to be changed forever. I am sure that will happen.
Jackie asked if I could bring art supplies with me. The school works hard to provide the basics, and so far, that hasn’t included art supplies. Creating things just for the joy of it is a luxury. But I also think it’s what makes us most human, and it’s been a big part of my journey the last few years. Will you help me share the joy of creativity with these amazing students? You can Venmo me @Sarah-Murphy-Kangas or reply to this email if you’d like to donate another way. If you donate, I’ll share with you some stories and photos about giving your gifts. Whether you donate or not, I will carry all of you with me in my heart.
The Dalai Lama reminds us that altruism is actually selfish. When we give, it makes us happier. That has been my experience, over and over, and thank you for allowing me to invite you into this experience with me.
Whatever your holidays hold—scarcity or abundance, community or solitude, snow or rain, sadness or joy—may you experience love and peace. May you be safe, may you be happy, may you be healthy, may you live with ease. Thank you for being here with me.