Tuesday I was driving down the road and
I recognized it - a McDonald's uniform. When you have children who love happy
meals, you learn to recognize a McDonalds uniform quickly. I pulled over and asked the
woman if she would like a ride, I was on East Court Street, and the nearest
McDonalds was at least 2+ miles away. When she got in the car she was so
appreciative, but she told me that she worked at the McDonalds next to the Food
Lion in Marion. That's right, she leaves 2 1/2 hours early to make it to work
on time. She walks 5 miles, twice a day, to work anywhere from 4 to 8 hours,
making $7.85 an hour.
We made small talk, I asked why she didn't have a vehicle, she explained
that the money from her tax return she was going to use to purchase a vehicle
had to go to a doctor bill. But that next year they would get a car with their
tax return. Next year. It rung in my ear. 11 more months, and she would get a
car. She said it as easily and with a smile, the same way I would order an iced
coffee from her window.
I left that morning, telling her that if I ever saw her walking again I'd
scoop her into the car. God did not leave me alone. Tears come to my eyes now
as I think of the blessings I take for granted on a daily basis. Running to the
grocery store in my car when I'm out of milk. Driving my children to the park.
Taking my son out for his birthday in Asheville. Her entire life revolves in
the world that she can walk to.
Since that day I have met up with April on a daily basis. Our church and a group of incredible people are taking the steps to find her a car. I am so humbled to be able to witness God's people helping a stranger in need. I know that God orchestrated the details to have me running late in order to meet her at the exact moment I did. This week through my talks with April I have learned so much. In fact she has taught me more than anything that I could ever do to help her. Each time I have picked her up or dropped her off, she is happy. Appreciative. Not one negative word has escaped her lips. And as a sometimes judgemental, always a sinner (being a little transparent here), I can see things that if I were her, I would be complaing about.
April is a mom, a wife, a Christian. She has been through some very difficult times in her life. And hopefully, receiving this vehicle will be a step in making her life a little better.
I've learned that I should not complain. Ever. Ever. Ever. I am blessed beyond measure in my little life in Marion. I have more than enough. Breaking up fights between my kiddos, meeting their needs, witnessing their rolling on the floor laughter, cooking for them, washing clothes that we have been able to purchase for them, taking them out for a Happy Meal on occasion...those are a priveledge.
This same week I read two posts on an awesome blog http://jenhatmaker.com/blog.htm that rocked my world. Please go and read her two posts about The Easter Conundrum.
And finally, keep your eyes open to the April's in your life. You might be able to help someone in your over abundance of earthly treasure. Just be prepared for God to use it to teach you something.
Thanks for listening! And if you want to know more about April, she has given me permission to share her story - email me at sarahsiak@yahoo.com.
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