Have you ever seen something in your mind? Something that you can only describe to others until the day it becomes reality?
This has happened so much in my life. I can see something as it can be, just taste it…describe it to others…tell them what it will take to get there…and then, well, then I wait for a response. Some of the things I’ve heard: “How are you gonna do THAT?” “You can’t help everybody.” “You’re being reactive.” But I’ve also heard responses like, “Sure, we can do that!” “What is the budget we need?” “Put it into a plan, and let’s make it happen!” “Of course!”
I’m living in a space right now where not just my dream, but a shared dream is becoming reality. A year ago, I volunteered to co-lead an initiative (with Rev. Bill Lovell) that requires $350,000 to build a women’s center in East Congo. I’m passionate about this because of who the center will serve: women who are survivors of brutal sexual assaults, who’ve been ostracized by family and community because of the assault they survived. I joined other dreamers – Bishop Gabriel Unda Yemba, United Methodist Women of East Congo, and Bishop Bill McAlilly and Bishop Grant Hagiya – who believe this can and should become reality.
We stand now at $212,000 due to the gifts of United Methodists who are part of the Tennessee, Memphis and California-Pacific Annual Conferences. Money has been released to the East Congo UMC, who has begun building the center. Just see for yourself!
The gift I bring is media, messaging and mobile solutions to raise awareness and funds. Together with Rev. David C. Lewis, Disciple Design, Amy Hurd, Lane Gardner Camp, James Kang, and Jerome Mercado through Harper Hill Global, effective messages for the center have been crafted in English, French and Swahili.
The communications that we’ve pursued still further is combating stigma due to rape. Together with incredibly brilliant minds (who I will name later), I’ve been working with Director of Communications for East Congo UMC Judith Yanga on a plan for communications in the East Congo Episcopal Area. Watch for new media and reports to come soon.
Dreams can become reality. Think about who you share your dreams with – you need people who can help you take it to the next level. If your dream is not accepted, again, think about with whom and how you share it. Something else to consider…are you dreaming big enough? Rev. Cayce Stapp says, “Dream big enough that it can only be achieved with God.” A God-sized dream can be realized. Don’t give up!
By Grace,
Neelley
