Heading Back

I am currently in the states visiting my family and being a part of two of my best friends’ weddings (in two different states). I will be going back to the Philippines on June 14th, tomorrow, where I have committed to teaching another year at the tutorial center. I will also be working on starting a missions organization at their local church in the city, plan to work more in the provinces, which are far poorer than the city, and continue to join feeding ministries around the city.

One thing I’ve learned about missions is that it’s not something you can just do once and be done. It’s work. Constant work. Daily work. It’s more than a two week adventure on the other side of the world. More than a one month trip to help those less fortunate than you. It is a life decision. A choice, if you will, to make a difference. And it is not easy. It’s not always easy to love a culture you don’t fully understand. It’s not easy to completely change your lifestyle, from how you sleep, to where you sleep, to the climate, to the food, to the availability of what you are use to, and traveling different, where you don’t speak the language, and are the only “foreigner” around…
It is hard to get the job of your dreams but make like a 10th of what you would in a different location. It’s a struggle every day knowing how “easy” I could have it with the luxuries of the American life. But I chose to stay in the third world countries. Because life is not about what I can achieve for myself. I may never be rich as far as money is concerned. But I do know that I have far more treasures than money could ever buy.

Being in the Philippines is both wonderful and a challenge. Adjusting to the culture took a little longer than expected but with grace and patience I have fallen in love with it. Teaching has its own challenges as every student has different strengths, behavior, and needs; but I have learned much so much from my students and the people around me.

I cannot tell you what is really in store for me after next year, or even everything that will happen this year. But one thing is certain…I love what I do! And I do not plan to stop anytime soon. The Philippines is just the start.

I am looking for people to partner with me each month to help with ministry expenses. Our tutorial center charges minimal rates to reach those who really need help. We are also wanting to add to our feeding ministry and provide food for not just the children but their families as well. If you would like to invest into the lives of the Filipinos I am working with each month, I am looking for at least 10 people to donate $5 or $10 a month. Anything helps change these children’s lives. With more we can do more. To set this up, or send a one-time donation, visit https://globalinfusion.org/melanie/support-melanie/ (All donations are tax deductible, go directly to me, and monthly support can be stopped at any time).

Much love!