The Source of Meaningful Change

My fifth trip with Project Hope draws to a close. As usual, the physical labor and time away from the usual busyness of my life have helped me to relax and refocus on those people and principles that add value and meaning to my life. This refreshed perspective restores me in so many ways.
We face enormous challenges in the United States and around the globe. Yet I see hope for a better future through meaningful change as exemplified in the lives of Lowell and Christian.
Lowell is a young man in his late 60s. He is quiet, physically strong and has a great heart. This is the third trip I have made with Lowell. He is a key leader on our projects, for he is in charge of the framing necessary for us to roof, put up wood siding above the block walls and finish out the homes with doors. On every trip he has to train a new crew from his fellow volunteers, men from different backgrounds, ages and churches. He always manages in his quiet, patient way to forge these men into formidable framers and siders.
Lowell, as do the other volunteers, comes to Nicaragua each year due to his compassion for people and in obedience to what he believes God is directing him to do. He pays his own way (airfare, meals, lodging), brings his own tools and raises money for the homes that need to be built. He does this to help Nicaraguans help themselves in building a better, more meaningful life.
Christian is a 21 year old Nicaraguan. He is married, has a three year old son and is a Christian. Three years ago Christian was living in a small plastic covered shelter, struggling to find work, a decent home for his family and meaning in life. A Project Hope crew arrived in his village. Even though he was not scheduled to receive a new home, Christian joined the American crew and other Nicas in building the homes. He prayed nightly for a home. Miraculously, enough extra blocks, wood and zinc were found to build him a home.
Now, Christian joins our group every year to help build homes for other Nicas. His testimony to his fellow countrymen is powerful-he has a job, a good home and family because he had the desire to improve his life.
The Nicas are amazed when they learn that none of the labor, materials or other expenses are paid from any government funds. Everything is from ordinary people such as themselves.
Lowell, Christian and the other Nicas and Americans I work with remind me that the real source of meaningful change lies in the millions of other people who possess the same hopes, dreams, values and desire for full and meaningful lives for themselves and their children.
The true source of meaningful change does not arise from political leaders nor governments. Meaningful change will come from people like Lowell and Christian who exemplify the character, values and virtues of people who are willing to help others help themselves in finding value and meaning in life.