I Wanted to Serve
Real change occurs when you engage beyond the transaction of giving, and focus on the larger experience.
In University, I worked with Volunteers of America for a year. I was assigned to two homes where I worked with people living with Mental Retardation and Developmental Disabilities (MRDD)….these were people who had no boundaries, in some cases no retentive memory, and couldn’t take care of themselves. One of the guys would be happy with me one minute, and curse at me the next minute screaming profane words. Another guy once picked up a knife, and threatened to stab me. I’d spend the night at their house, studying and listening to music all night, because I couldn’t sleep while on duty. At 5am I would administer their medication and drive them to workshop before heading to my classes. I did this every single day for one full year….These guys needed me for almost everything. They tested my patience, and my temperament, and they grew my heart.
…There were mornings that I struggled to keep my eyes open in class because I had been awake all night working. I didn’t complain to my friends, neither did I take out my frustrations on the guys in the house. Instead, I channeled my feelings into showing more love. It was during those long nights that I spent time harnessing my gifts, developing ideas, mapping out strategy, reading, researching. It was on those long nights that I prayed for my future….I cried many times, I grew frustrated, but I persevered. I didn’t have to do it, but I did because I knew it was going to teach me something priceless. I wanted to give myself and my time to people who didn’t really feel love the way I knew it.
I wanted to serve.
‘This Thing Called Purpose,’ excerpted from pages 141-142
When I wrote #ThisThingCalledPurpose, I was certain that it was the book that I needed to read. I wasn't just writing for others alone, I was writing for myself. I knew that it would be a super impactful book, but what I wasn't prepared for was the depth of the stories and messages I would receive from each person who picked up the book. It has been such a beautiful journey. It is a reference book, and I go back to read a part at least twice a month. I talked about going through a divorce, health challenges, business challenges...the things I learned on my journey towards finding the rhythm and alignment that God intended for me on life's journey.
So in the name of Love & Community sharing, If you want a copy of my book, "This Thing Called Purpose,” but can't afford one at the moment, visit my instagram post I put up yesterday. It’s your chance to get a copy! If you are able to help out someone by gifting someone in need of a copy of this book, follow the directions on the post, and write “I got you,” in the comments. The offer is only up till tomorrow night, so get on it now! Thank you to all those who have responded on the post so far, it has been amazing to watch the support, love, and generosity out there.
If you wish to do a bulk book purchase, please drop me a line here, and we’ll make sure we send it out to those who can’t manage it right now. It’s been tough times lately, and your support means the world. Thank you for being a Light to others.
God Bless You!
xx
Adaora ‘Lumina’ Mbelu
p.s. “Success Is…” will be back tomorrow! Make sure you check your inbox for Day 10 tomorrow!