Even though the store is out of sight this week while we are travelling, I’m still thinking about it and our purposes. I know the economy is tight and a lot is up in the air right now. This has reflected in the store and what we have been able to give in the last couple of months. “Just barely breaking even” is part of my weekly vocab. But then I read stories that break my heart and know that if the store gives, and tries to be faithful to fulfill one of our purposes and hope it will work out ok. (Last time the store took that leap, it came back to us the next day!) I hope this touches your heart as well…
Yesterday I was reading the blogs I frequent. One of my favs on my Google Reader is My Marrakesh written by a lovely woman named Maryam. I’m always loving the Moroccan inspiration that she gives. Currently she is visiting Rwanda and sharing some stories on her blog about what she is learning. Please read her last few posts here and here and consider giving what you might be able to. Her words ring true, “In a different dark life, in a different dark space, it could have been you, in Vestine’s place. It could have been mein Vestine’s place.” Your donation would go to AVEGA, which is a Rwandan NGO dedicated to widows of the genocide. If you would like to give, you can do a PayPal transfer to Tammy.Cody@gmail.com, or if you would like to send a check, email me directly Tammy@dignityregained.org and I’ll let you know where you can send it, (checks can be written to “Dignity Regained”.) Or if you are a Peoria local, stop by the shop next week and see me about giving to AVEGA. Dignity Regained is going to start it off by giving $100. If you’d like to send Maryam a note you can reach her at maryam@mtds.com.
*Within the first hour we have already gotten the first donation!
Thank you so much! You are making a real difference:)