"One of the main reasons that we lose our enthusiasm in life is because we become ungrateful..we let what was once a miracle become common to us. We get so accustomed to His goodness it becomes a routine.."-Olsteen

My teamate Sam & I in Bethel, playing with some of the girls:)

 This past week been such an eye opener. It was through God that my eyes were opened to some of the reality here in Nicaragua.This week as my friends Nash, Christy & I were walking around the small village of Bethel, we came across a back road that none of us had ever been on. Skeptical- we started walking. We then saw a house and introduced ourselves to the two men living there. We asked them if they needed prayer, however they ended up telling us about a sick man that lived fairly close. This small girl lead the way to the sick mans house, and we followed.Upon arriving there was a man in his mid 40's sitting on a chair, reading the bible. He had joy exuding through his pores.He was delighted to see us there, and I was excited to talk to this man that had so much radiance; his smile is one of those that could make anyone  smile even on their worst of days. We then sat down and I started talking with this man; Felix is his name. Basically he told us how he is going to die in two months from this disease so many of the men down here in Nicaragua have. (It infects their kidneys) Men get this disease after working in the sugar cane fields, and it leads to death. .The cause is unknown, and it's

a very sad epidemic here. I believe there's a type of treatment, however most people can not afford such a big expense..I've been back everytime I go to the village to visit Felix & his family. Who are all so precious, I wish you could all meet them:) We bring him so much joy just being there, but what he doesn't know is He brings me so much more. 

This man is dying. Yet he doesn't complain. He is not bitter or for having this disease. He doesn't complain that that he lives in one of the poorest countries, with a shack for a house in the barrios. He doesn't complain that he doesn't have the means to get treatment. Or that that he can't watch his daughters grow up. He doesn't complain to so many things, that I take for granted every single day of my life, that would be miserable to live without.-- Food for every meal. Clothing. Shoes. If I'm sick I can get myself to the  doctor. I have a roof over my head.& even things like When I'm bored I have so many means for entertainment, yet so many times I find myself complaining about something in life. It's my selfish Human nature that I have become so oblivious to. 

However, when Felix speaks..it's words of praise to The Lord. That He is being comforted because He knows where He is going. He knows that the pains and sufferings on this Earth are only temporary. He is just filled with Faith, and is a light in a dark place.

FELIX!

Being with Him and the people here has caused my realization of all these blessings I have in my life is beyond increasing and overwhelming. Every morning I like to wake up and count my blessings (well counting would be impossible because I have TOO many to count:) however just being in that kind of mindset. & I pray for our hearts to be hearts of thankfulness.

"Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with eaachother and forgive whatever grievance you may have against one another. Forgive as The Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity. Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. AND BE THANKFUL." Colossians 3:12-15