Words are powerful. According to Proverbs 18:21..."the tongue has the power of life and death." For those of you who regularly read my blog, you know that I write straight from my heart...that I choose my words thoughtfully...that I am passionate and authentic...that I care deeply. You also know that I am not afraid to confront the difficult issues...that I am committed to seeking and speaking truth...that I will NOT hide behind ‘political correctness'. I seek neither recognition nor affirmation...I just want to be 'REAL'.
In my lifetime, I've had three seemingly unrelated careers...I've been a comedy club manager/emcee, an interior designer/mural artist and a REALTOR®. Although it appears that these three careers have absolutely nothing in common, there is a single thread that interconnects one to the other...I followed my heart and passionately pursued my dreams.
In 2000, my neatly woven life unraveled. After fifteen years of marriage to my junior high school sweetheart, I was single...something I NEVER imagined would happen to me. I was devastated and lost... trying desperately to find my way through the storm that threatened to destroy me. At times, I was tempted to give in and give up...as I felt powerless to fight. In those moments, I did the only thing I knew...I reached out to God for strength and courage...for peace in the midst of my storm. He was always there...always faithful...even when I was not.
Resolute that I would not allow the unfortunate circumstances of my life to determine the outcome of my life, I volunteered to teach an adult education class at a local church. Within a few weeks, I was in love again...with life and with my wonderful students. The fire of my spirit was reignited...the clouds had drifted away...the sun was shining again.
After several months, I developed many close and special relationships with my students. Often, I received invitations to attend birthday parties and other family celebrations...an honor I cherished. I loved visiting their homes and having the opportunity to get to know them personally. They were always so gracious and kind to me...going to great lengths to express their gratitude for my volunteering to teach their class.
One beautiful Sunday afternoon, I drove out to the country to attend a student's cookout. Following the directions, I pulled my car into a driveway...situated between two dilapidated mobile homes. The numbers above the crooked door on the left indicated that I was indeed at the right home, but I could not exit my car. My eyes were locked on the scene taking place at the other mobile home...two small children laughing and playing in the front yard...kicking a ball back and forth to one another. That is what children do, right? I'm not finished with the story. The stench was unmistakable...the children were splashing around in raw sewage. The yard was flooded.
Sitting in my car, I considered my options. I could get out of my car and enjoy the party...OR...I could attempt to help that family and THOSE precious children. As I walked toward their front door, avoiding the deepest puddles, I tried to find the ‘right words' to tell the parents that their front yard was not a safe place for their children to play...that the law requires landlords to maintain the home in a safe and habitable condition...and that I (a stranger) wanted to help them.
Before I made it across the yard, a man appeared on the front porch. His questioning look beckoned me to explain my presence...but I still had not found those words I sought. I said, "Hi sir, my name is Elizabeth. I noticed that you have a problem with some flooding in your front yard, and I want to help you." His expression did not change, and he did not speak. "You see, sir, if you rent...your landlord is required by law to fix this problem. Do you mind me asking...do you rent this home?" Shame washed across his face, and he said, "Yes...we have been renting this trailer for three years. We've always had a problem with the septic tank. The landlord tried to fix it a few times, but it did not work. We can't do anything about it."
Feeling fire rising up inside of me, I said "YES...you can do something about it! I will call your landlord right now and remind him of his legal obligation. He does not have any choice. Legally, he must repair the problem if he wants to continue collecting rent from you. You have rights. You don't have to take this anymore. There are people who will help you." I'll never forget his response..."Elizabeth, thank you for wanting to help me and my family. I appreciate it. But, you don't understand. I can't take that chance. What if he gets mad and kicks us out? Where will we go? I know this isn't much, but this is the only home we have. Please don't call him." He then explained to me that he paid $750 for that broken-down trailer...$150 per head. Having no choice but to honor his request, I shook his hand...and looking one last time at the children who were holding tightly onto his legs, I turned to go...a deep sadness following close behind me.
The next morning, arriving at the gorgeous home owned by my design client (a famous, professional athlete), I thought once again of those children. To myself, I asked the question "Why do some have so much and others so little?" As I painted the giant mural on the ceiling of his home theater, I saw their faces in my mind's eye...and it always led me back to the image of them playing in that cesspool of human waste. At one point, I thought..."This guy does not need me. He can buy anybody or anything he wants. Those children...they need me. Who do they have on their side?"
For days...weeks...I could not escape the images of those children. I thought of them during the day, and I dreamed of them at night. I questioned why God had allowed me to see them that Sunday afternoon...to know of their suffering...if I could not help them. So...I reasoned...I just had to find a way...I had to do SOMETHING.
On the following Monday morning, I began calling every organization of which I was aware to find assistance for that family. Every person with whom I spoke suggested that I call someone else...and I did. By the end of the day, I had called everyone...to no avail. Sitting at my desk...holding my face in my hands...feeling defeated and overwhelmed...I prayed...asking God for direction and answers. Somewhere in the depths of my soul...I heard my answer...in the form of a question..."what are YOU going to do?" "WHAT ARE YOU GOING TO DO?" "WHAT ARE YOU GOING TO DO?"
After a long, restless night...I finally made a decision to end my design career and become a real estate agent. I told my crew and my clients that same day. EVERYONE insisted that I was just ‘going through something'...that I should not make a rash decision. Too late...I had already made my decision. I finished the home in which I was working, immediately went to work in a small real estate office for $12/hour (to learn the business from the inside) and enrolled in real estate school. I had a dream...a vision...a goal...and I had the image of those children fueling my internal fire. Most of you know the end of the story.
But wait! In my title...I stated that my story would make some people angry.
IF you have read this far...I hope you are angry that a greedy landlord would take advantage of that family...and place those innocent children in danger. I hope that I successfully transferred the intensity of their suffering to you...and I hope you understand why I made the decision I made. I hope you feel the ugliness of the scene I witnessed...that it turns your stomach inside out. I hope you are asking yourself this question..."What would I have done?" I hope you feel what I felt...what I feel everyday!
As I shared my story, I intentionally left out a few details. I did that because I did not wish for these details to influence your reaction to the story. Even now...I hope that it will not change how you feel...although I respect your right to have and express your opinion.
•· The adult education class I taught...was ‘English as a Second Language'. I had 25 adult students from 12 different Spanish-speaking countries. When I first volunteered to teach that class, I only knew five words of Spanish. The ‘teacher' became the ‘student'.
•· Those children who I saw playing in the flooded front yard of the broken-down mobile home were Hispanic. Their father refused my help because he was not a legal US citizen...fearful and believing that EVEN THOUGH he paid his $750 rent...he had NO RIGHT to demand a safe home for his family. And what about those children? Those children were born in Raleigh, North Carolina. They are 100% legal US citizens...just like you and me.
•· The decision I made...My Goal...My Purpose: To dedicate my life to ‘even the playing field' for those whose rights have been abused. To assist families to obtain safe, affordable housing...a home in which to raise their children...fertile soil in which to plant their roots and grow into something beautiful. To be a voice for those who cannot speak for themselves because they don't speak English or don't know their legal rights. To invest in the lives of children today...to build their confidence and self esteem...so that they will become strong, independent adults tomorrow. To recognize and respect the sanctity and dignity of every life...to treat every person equally regardless of their social or legal status. To make a difference in this world...one life at a time.
At what point did the GREAT United States of America...the 'melting pot' of the world...become a place where we have to know someone's legal status before we will come to their aid? What about this?
Matthew 25: 31-45
"When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, he will sit on his throne in heavenly glory. All the nations will be gathered before him, and he will separate the people one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. He will put the sheep on his right and the goats on his left.
Then the King will say to those on his right, 'Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world. For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.'
Then the righteous will answer him, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?'
The King will reply, 'I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.'
Then he will say to those on his left, 'Depart from me, you who are cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels. For I was hungry and you gave me nothing to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me nothing to drink, I was a stranger and you did not invite me in, I needed clothes and you did not clothe me, I was sick and in prison and you did not look after me.'
They also will answer, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry or thirsty or a stranger or needing clothes or sick or in prison, and did not help you?'
He will reply, 'I tell you the truth, whatever you did not do for one of the least of these, you did not do for me.'"
God bless YOU!
To read this post in Spanish:
La VERDADERA razón por la que me convertí en REALTOR® (Agente de Bienes Raíces)
Written and Posted by:
Elizabeth Nieves - Broker, REALTOR® -- The Elizabeth Nieves Realty Group @ Keller Williams (A Bilingual Real Estate Team serving Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill NC and surrounding areas.)
Visit our website at http://www.elizabethnieves.com
Oh Elizabeth,
I understand how you felt and how you still feel. I have many friends who are illegal. I see their struggles every day as they try to live their lives and provide for their families, all the while taking abuse after abuse because they feel that they don't have a voice. The plain reality of the situation is that people look at them as criminals and, as such, they have no rights.
We have lost touch with the reality that these are human beings who came here because they were trying to escape the abuses they were receiving in their own countries. They work hard to scrape by because living in a place where their kids have to play in sewer water is so much better than the conditions they were living in in their own country.
I admire your bravery for writing this post and you can know that I am here to add to your voice, but you must also know that we are in the extreme minority in this country that was built upon the principle that "All men were created equal", unless you're illegal. If you're illegal, you are open game to be abused and are expected to take that abuse with gratitude because, after all, you aren't supposed to be here anyway. There are so many who say that illegals have no rights.
Yes, they do. It's called basic human rights. God Bless you and protect you.
Elizabeth,
By the way, my wife was illegal when we met. She's not illegal now, but she still gets the comments and questions as if she was. Hispanics are quickly becoming the main target of hate in this country. The question of legality is just a means of justifying the abuse that stems from that hate.
Sorry, but you climbed onto my soap box!!
Lisa: You ROCK! I truly appreciate your support. You are an amazing woman! GBY!
Andrew: What can I possibly say to you? I KNEW you would get it...get me. I'm just so tired of all the talk about 'illegals'...and whether they should be here. Who really belongs here? I'm Native American. My ancestors were here before anybody else. Still...I have not one ounce more of right than any other human being. We were all created by a loving God who made us equal. When will we stop hating? It breaks my heart!
There are so many things that people don't understand...and can't understand unless they want to understand. I suppose I'm enough of an idealist to believe that my sharing can actually make people want to understand. I hope and pray that it will.
Thank you for ALL of your support. It means more that I can ever say. Dios te bendiga!!!!
Whatever happened to this sentiment: "Give me your tired, your poor,/Your huddled masses yearning to breathe free"
Elizabeth,
You certainly have a "Big Why" and that is one reason you are a successful real estate agent... that along with your faith in God's plan for your life and your genuine love for people. If you get a chance to read one of my posts, What is your "Big Why?" (not going to link to it because I'm not trying to lead your readers away), then you'll know what I'm talking about. Just wanted to say that your couragous writings have inspired me to follow your example and write from my heart.
Elizabeth,
You are one of the few people that I know who in life have witnessed a "wrong" and instead of simply saying "what a shame" you have actually done something about it. You changed your career (which sounds like it was so much fun AND allowed you to be creative!) because you witnessed something that broke your heart and frustrated you with the lack of resolution.
For some reason I had a feeling while reading your story that the man and his family were illegal aliens. Why else would he have been frightened to do anything about the situation or ask you to help? My heart aches for them.
I've read your story twice, and forgive me if I missed it, but was help ever received for this family that you know of?
It's always nice to hear of another story of Realtors helping people. It is why I love the business so much. Great story!
Jan: Thank you, my dear friend. I will go there now and read it. IF I have inspired you to write from your heart...it is only because that was already inside of you. Passion inspires passion. We need one another. God bless you!
Kris: I think you know me too well. ;-) You always see through me...and that is great! I appreciate your continuous and genuine support. I can alway count on you. I hope you know that you can also count on me. You are one of the people that I KNOW would always have a shoulder for me. THANK YOU!
As far as that family...I did go back and talk to them...many times actually. I've helped them...but not as much as I wanted. They STILL live in the same trailer...although the owner eventually corrected the problem in the front yard and 'remodeled'. Things are better than they were, at least. GBY!!!
Maggie: From the first time I connected with you, I have felt a kinship. I may have told you...or you may just know. I believe that you do. I also believe that there is something that we can do together. Whatever that 'thing' is inside of you...KNOW that I will support you in any way I can. You are very special...there is greatness in you! I'm so glad you are my friend. God bless you!!!
Krista: THANKS so much! ME TOO!!! It is also great to have the opportunity to connect with like-minded and like-hearted people. Blessings!
Adam: YOUR comments are particularly special to me...perhaps because I sense that you truly do feel me. Your words pulsate with honesty and conviction. THANK YOU! You know...I KNOW that some people will be angry. I KNOW because I've experienced many attacks through the years. I've been the victim of so much hate mail and emails and verbal abuse...ALL because I am helping people...doesn't make sense ot me. I've been accused of being a bad American...a traitor...and some things I can't say here. Maybe...one day I'll write a post about that...probably! ;-)
Again...THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT!!! GBY!!
Elizabeth,
Great "Big Why". This story is another Thanksgiving blessing. We are living in Renton WA one of the most multicultural places I've ever seen. In fact the school system has 91 languages. Take care of others and we will be taken care of. Our place is to help our fellow man, not worry about jerks with hate mail or threats. God knows your heart and your motivation. Forge ahead.
www.RentonHomeFinder.com
Elizabeth,
One more thing. Not everyone agrees with this.... really controversial actually .... so here goes. I will be glad when we get 4 more generations down the road in our country and we are so mixed that no one can figure out how to answer on the box of what race we are. Then we can just be Americans and not this or that race. Should make it easier to take care of each other and not get stuck on who and where did you come from.
Blessings, Gary
Elizabeth,
God Bless you, the lord has lead you to the ministry he has chosen for you and you were obedient and accepted his call. Anyone who would get angry for you doing the Lords work just needs to be prayed for.
Elizabeth-What admiration I have for you and the amount of giving you have in your heart. It's amazing how blessed our lives become and how strong our souls become by giving. Often times when people are struggling in their lives and they are pulled down by horrible circumstances, divorce, loss of a loved one, loss of job, the list goes on and on, they turn to drugs and alcohol for their fix. What a gift God has given each of us to reach out and have a giving spirit. When we turn to giving, rather than consuming, we find ourselves feeling that sunshine again.
You did get into my soul with this story. Now I can only think of those children. What did you do? Is the answer in another post? My mind won't settle until I know. People are around us, just quietly yelling "I need your help". What an angel you are to listen and how grateful I am to say you are my friend. That is not by chance. God is using your voice to speak loudly to everybody who reads the beauty of what is within your soul.
Thank you Elizabeth!
Elizabeth, This is a beautiful story and I enjoyed reading it so much.....every word of it is a true reflection of the society we live in on so many levels. If you don't mind me asking, what became of the family in the story?
Jo
Oh Elizabeth. this does not surprise me of you. You are one terrific woman. God has given you great gifts and you have chosen not to hide them under a bushel basket. You have sited a story all true common, not the details. You did the right thing. You did the Godly thing. You are one of His sheep and you heard His voice. God bless you and thank you for the post.
Elizabeth
OK, I definitely ran into someone with great passion, as I wrote the other day! :)
You are a GREAT AMERICAN, and a marvelous person with a heart of gold. It is a pleasure to be in the company of your compassion and love.
Missy: You know...I never thought about it that way before...but YES...it was a Paul on the road to Damascus experience. Thank you for sharing that with me! God bless you!
Tom: I KNOW you spoke those words from your heart, because I feel your heart in them. THANK YOU! GBY!
Gary: What a voice of encouragement you are!!! I am so thankful to have YOU on my side. I'm not worried about the threats and accusations. There is ONLY one voice and one opinion that matters to me...and He'll let me know if I get out of hand.
And...I UNDERSTAND your second comment. I wonder if even now...most people realize how closesly they are related to someone who was 'illegal' when they entered this country. God bless you, my brother!
Hugh: Thank you, my brother, for your words of encouragement and support. It means so very much to me. It amazes me everyday how God brought me to AR...the friendship and support is an overwhelming blessing. GBY!
Dear Julie: I am honored and humbled by your words. I just want you to know that I KNOW that our paths crossing is not by mistake...is not circumstancial. I knew that the first time we connected. I see so much beauty in you, Julie. God uses you in ways you do not even know. Just let Him...and MAN...I can only imagine the lives you will touch with His love. Blessings, my sweet friend!
Oh Carol: You are always at the front of the line to give me your support. You are so dear to me. Thank you for being so faithful and encouraging. God bless you!
Jo: Thank you so much! The family is still in that trailer, but the landlord did correct the problem with the sewer. I've been in contact with the family through the years. Thanks for asking and caring! GBY!
Sweet Pat: Thank you, my friend, for your kind words. You are so loving...so giving...so tender. YOU BLESS ME!!! God bless you!!
Bill: You KNOW that when I read your post the other night...it triggered something deep inside of me. I could not rest until I wrote this. Like I said before...passion inspires passion. It is MY HONOR to know you and stand with YOU! God bless you!
Alecia: I don't know where to begin to respond to you...there are so many feelings that your comment touched in me. First of all...YOU ARE the woman God created you to be. HIS LOVE pours out of you. From the very first time I read your blog, I KNEW that we were spiritual sisters. You are a GIFT from GOD! There is fire in you, woman...and grace...and mercy. I am so blessed to know you.
As far as your daughter...I KNOW that she is gorgeous!!! (Just like her mommy!)
Jason: When I read your post about your friend, I had just finished writing this. I thought that maybe you would understand. There are so many things that people don't realize unless they have the opportunity to know someone who is dealing with the abuse and suffering that goes with being in this country illegally. Why would someone put themselves in that situation...is what we need to be asking. Why would someone leave their country...travel through difficult and dangerous circumstances to risk being in this country? Why would someone (like your friend) leave their family behind? Do we ask ourselves these questions before we judge? I don't think so. They do it because the danger...the risk...the separation and loneliness is a small price to pay to survive. People want to feed their children. What would you do if your children were hungry and you could not find work in your country? What would you do if your mother and father and children and wife and extended family were hungry? What about if the water in your village was contaminated? What about if you had to walk twenty miles to find a job that paid $40 a week for 13 hours of work per day? (And you still could not feed your family!) This is serious! This is not a political issue. This is a human issue.
God bless you, my friend!
I am speachless, Eliz..... I am featuring this...and I will come back and comment later!!
=-)
Elizabeth, thank you for this wonderful post. "As a man thinks in his heart, so is he..." from Proverbs, describes you. What a God honoring stance you took with this family. And the comments give me a new perspective on many Active Rain friends. Thanks again,
Mike in Tucson
p.s. Does your last name really mean ice cream? I grew up in South America, but the country was Suriname, so I speak Dutch, not Spanish. We had friends over for dinner last night, educators from El Salvador and Honduras. We've been a friendship family for both of them for nearly a year. They speak very little English, and we speak almost no Spanish. We have a blast passing the dictionary back and forth. We served ice cream, and Reyna (from Honduras) said "nieve." At least that's what I think she said. I've subscribed to your blog and added you as an associate.
Chris: I KNOW we CAN turn things around...with God's help and guidance. I'm so glad YOU are on my team. GBY!
Alex: Thank YOU, my friend! Blessings!!
Debra: I could write for days sharing my personal experiences with beautiful Hispanic families. We could learn so much from their culture...if we were not so busy finding reasons to reject and despise them. God help us! God bless you!!
Jason: My heart hurts for your friend. Would he mind if I knew his name? I would like to pray for him by name...for his wife and children. Where do they live in Mexico? As you know, my mother in law lives in Mexico. I am planning to go back in the next year. Maybe...I could take something to his family...as a gift for him. Just a thought.
YES...I received your message. Thanks so much for making that call for me. I am deeply saddened by this man's actions...but God is still in control. At least, now I know that he is acting intentionally...that he is not incapable of receiving my communications.
God bless you, my friend!!!
Curt: I am also thankful that you opened my blog...because I now know that I have another friend in my corner. It is not easy to stand against the injustices of this world...but stand we must. I've been fighting so hard for so many years now...mostly alone. This community is a gift from God to me...and I am so very thankful for the opportunity to be a part of such a wonderful group of people.
You know...I thought of something tonight. It seems appropriate to share it now. Here at AR...when we write and read and comment...we get to know one another much like blind men. In other words, because we are not distracted by the things that normally separate us from one another...we just look directly into one another's hearts. Isn't that the way it should be...just looking at another human being as a heart that is 'wrapped' in different packages? That would eliminate so much of the hatred and abuse we heap on one another in this world.
Thank you for your encouraging words. You blessed me more than I can say. God bless you!
Mike: Well...you are close. My last name actually means 'snow'. Many cultures use words that are similar to something else as a nickname. Since ice cream is frozen like snow...a nickname for ice cream is nieve. But...good job on picking up on that!
I'm thankful that we have connected. I've read several of your posts...and many of your comments on other posts. I KNEW that you were a man of conviction and integrity. Thank you for adding me as an associate. I am blessed to know you...as I am blessed by so many here at AR. God bless you, my friend.
Elizabeth...I can't think of a better reason for you to be doing what you do.
I find the "political" slant put on this issue so disturbing. I can honestly understand why people have economic concerns and expect that sentiment will increase as the economy worsens...but what I don't understand is the callousness and disregard for just plain humanity. They talk about people like statistics with no consideration for family...it is so very cruel...and all to try to get elected!
Elizabeth - It's obvious that this is a calling on your life. I've seen too much of what you've written about - in TX, NY, FL, MA - it's rampant and inexcusable. I'm betting there's an army of you out here.
Jackie
Elizabeth,
That was an amazing story and such a wonderful post. It is incredible how some people are so afraid that if they confront someone like their landlord that they will be kicked out. I know that being a landlord here in Michigan that tenants have lots of rights and we have learned the hard way that a landlord must do things accoeding to Michigan law or end up in court on the losing end of the deal. Great job! I am inspired!
Elizabeth..... I am so inspired by why you became a REALTOR®......
I became one because I want to give the gospel and teach about the Lord and His kingdom without cost to those who listen. I already do it everywhere i go and it is a joy to see peoples lives delivered from bondage's, hate and various sins in their lives.
The miracles God works are wonderful and I rejoice in those also!! I believe miracles are Gods way of advertising to LARGE amounts of people; who can stay quiet after being touched in their lives by our wonderful Creator??!!!??
Joan: You are so right. It is not only cruel...it is inhumane. There are so many layers to this issue...and regardless of which side you take...people are people...deserving respect and care. IF we cannot agree on the dignity and value of ALL human life...we have more problems in this country than any 'politics' can possible fix. God bless you!
Jason: I received your email with his info. Thanks for sending. I want to support him with prayers...and who knows what else God will do. He is blessed to have you in his corner. Blessings!
Jackie: I received your email...and I can't agree with you more. I am truly looking forward to talking to you. And...YES...there is so much of this same thing happening all over the country...this is the tip of the iceberg. People are being abused every single day...and we turn our faces away and pretend everything is okay. It is NOT okay. We have MUCH to talk about!! GBY, my friend!
Julianna: I care...and I know (from the response this post has received) that MANY people care also. We who care must join together and do something to make the world a better place...for EVERYONE. Lives are at stake... God bless you!
John and Lisa: Thanks so much for taking the time to read my post. I appreciate your sincere and encouraging feedback. You know...what you said is so true. The laws are in place to protect tenants from unscrupulous landlords...but people who don't speak English don't understand the law and have no idea how to go about getting help. Furthermore...if someone is illegal in this country...they are terrified of bringing any attention to themselves. Instead....they endure suffering and abuse. It is wrong. GBY!
Alex: You are such a wonderful example of our Lord Jesus Christ. I see Him in you...all the time! You have such a loving and giving heart. I'm so happy to know you and call you my friend. Keep serving...Blessings!!
Elizabeth, as always you prove yourself to be one the most loving ,caring & giving persons I have met on AR or anywhere else for that matter. There should be more people like you out there, maybe we wouldn't be in the state of events we are today. Never be ashamed or feel that someone could ever judge your feelings,your thoughts,your political views. who are we to judge.
Elizabeth, I knew when you were telling the story that this man was an Illegal and in fear of being found out. The landlord took advantage of his weakness, and put his children in jeopardy. The Lord had a "divine appointment" scheduled for you that day. A life changing experience was in store for you and you had no clue. Isn't it amazing how the Lord works!
You put a human face on what has too often become a statistic. I bekieve it I were born across the border I would try to cross and live in our great land. I thank God every day for being a citizen of the USA. I thqankg God for sisters like you who lay it all down for others. Well done, my friend.
Ginger
Awesome Post Elizabeth - Your heart is in the right place - we also feel that everyone deserves equal opportunities at housing! As a daughter of Immigrants I can tell you prejudice exists and angers me when seen in our profession! I share your belief statement "To recognize and respect the sanctity and dignity of every life...to treat every person equally regardless of their social or legal status. To make a difference in this world...one life at a time"
GBY
Grace
Ginger: It breaks my heart to see the abuse that happens every single day in this country. I KNOW that God allowed me to witness that abuse firsthand that Sunday afternoon so that I would do something about it. It was a divine appointment...I am certain. It definitely changed my life...and I'm thankful. Like you...I feel blessed to have been born in this country. I ask God daily to help me to never take my liberty for granted.
God bless you, my dear friend!
Gary: Thanks so much for your encouraging words. God bless you!
Christopher: Thank you! I do work hard for my clients, and I care. IF you ever buy a home in NC...I'd love to be your REALTOR!! Blessings!
Elizabeth: I am reading this post right after reading your post "Random Acts of BLINDNESS." Yes... you are quite correct... this post makes me very angry.
I am guessing that it could make people angry in two different ways, though. There are so many people what are just so crazily against the so-called "illegal immigrants" who come to the United States from Mexico... passing through Texas, New Mexico and Arizona. I recall a post from months ago when the immigration bill was four-square in the news... and there were many, many hateful posts written just scathingly blasting these people who came here... even though they were doing so "illegally"... simply to find a better life.
One of these "people" even said that if they had their way... they would post themselves with a rifle on the US side of the river... and actually shoot these people as they attempted to swim their way to our country. The anger was so vehement... but so wrongly placed.
The other way of getting angry after reading your two posts... is being once again reminded that people who choose to call themselves "christians" can be so filled with hate for their and our own brothers and sisters. Yes... this makes me very angry. I have always believed very much in my heart... that "whatever we do to the least of our brothers and sisters... that is what we do to God."
Once again, Elizabeth... thanks so much for sharing such a "powerful" post. Take care...
Elizabeth, I am "white" but I grew up in very poor circumstances. I was often invited to to sleepovers but I never invited anyone to my house. We didn't have a phone so I couldn't receive calls but one day a friend's mother drove my friend out to my house to invite me somewhere. I was so mortified by her seeing our house, the few pieces of cheap furniture in our small unpainted living room, and our old radio sitting on the table held together by purple string. My heart was beating fast hoping that she would not notice the outhouse. To this day, I am uncomfortable having anyone come into my home.
KAREN: I was away all day yesterday, so I'm just now getting back here to respond to your comment. First of all...thank you so much for sharing your heart like this. Your comment really touched me.
I've read posts like you have described...from people that absolutely hate anyone who is not here in this country legally. Let me tell you...I've been to other countries that are not as blessed as the USA...and I would escape them if I had a chance also. There are so many things that most people don't realize. It is almost impossible to come to this country legally if you are from Mexico especially. People line up at the embassies and wait for days to have an opportunity to apply for a visa. Less than 1 percent EVER make it through the door. I KNOW...I was there. I saw it with my own eyes. I know that many of the people who come to this country just want to feed their children. They don't want to leave their families...they don't want to walk hundreds of miles in the desert...they don't want to risk being captured or worse. They are desperate...and desperate people will do whatever they have to do.
As you can see, I feel very passionately about this issue. I'm sick and tired of the hatred. We, who were born here, are blessed. BUT...we could have been born anywhere in the world. We could have been born in Africa where war and disease has killed 20% of the population. We could have been born in Ecuador where some families are born in the banana fields where they work and live their whole lives...never even leaving to go to school. AND YES...we could have been born in Mexico...where there is just no work available...except in areas of heavy tourism and the big cities. How would we feel about this issue if we were on the other side of the border? Just a thought. GBU!!
BARBARA: I really want to give you a hug right now! I don't know you, but I KNOW you. I grew up very similarly. We were very poor, and I was ashamed for anyone to see my home. I think that is why I have such compassion for those who are less fortunate than I. I have been in their shoes, and I know what it feels like to want to be invisible because you feel so different than the other kids at school. I used to feel such shame when the school bus stopped in front of my house...because my house was not like the other kids' homes. I remember dreaming of living in a two story brick home, because that represented wealth to me.
From early in high school, I worked so hard so that I could have all of the things I did not have when I was a child. I achieved the world's version of the ultimate success. However, what I learned along the way is that who I am has nothing to do with how much money I have or how big a home I own. My value comes from the things deep in my heart...my ability to love others and my faithfulness to God. IF I were to lose everything today...I'd still be the same person. No one can ever take my dignity and self respect from me again. They cannot have it.
I pray for you that you will find your healing...that God will take away the pain and shame you experienced as a child and show you just how valuable and beautiful you are. GBU!!
We never know how lucky we are and who wealthy we are compared to some, God does look over the poor and weak and there place in Heaven will be Rich, never be ashamedof who you are or where you come form, God never makes mistakes, we never know why, but he does! My prayer is for us to Wake up and see what is around us and reach out and help those that need.
What a wonderful post! Thanks for sharing.
KATHY: Wonderful words, my friend...wonderful words. GBU!
ERICA: Thank you so much! Not everyone agrees with us...but that is okay. GBU!
You never fail to bring a smile to my face, with such wonderful writings
More than ever before, we need to focus on the eternal not the temporal, and on people not possesions. There are hurting people who need physical and spiritual hope all around us.
thanks for the "hug". The house we lived in before that house was even worse. I don't remember a lot about it since we lived there up until I was about 4. It was bleak; a small, weathered old one room shack that held two full beds, a treadle sewing machine, small dresser and a few straight back chairs pulled up to the fireplace. There was a small room at the back for a kitchen and table. There was no electricity, no running water, no plumbing, and the stove was a wood-burning stove. There was no refrigerator or any other electrical appliance. There was also a small side room that held a quilt box and shelves for storing vegetables canned by my grandmother and mother. Our lighting at night was achieved by a coal-oil lamp. There were no screens on either the doors or the windows and in the winter there were rags stuffed into the cracks. I have no idea how we did it but eight people lived there, my grandparents, parents, three siblings and me. I think the adults slept on the beds and the kids slept on the floor. Oh, and our water source was a well in the yard that water was drawn from and that our mother continually warned us from getting near. Thank God for the covered and shaded front porch with two rocking chairs in the summertime. The best thing was an abundant vegetable garden, fresh eggs, the amazing nighttime sky, beautiful scenery, beautiful flowers planted by my grandmother, and the beautiful people who lived there (with the exception of my abusive father). I had a lot of emotional problems, especially as a young adult, and life has been a struggle for me compared to most people I know. Becoming a mother is what got me focused in life.
PATTIE: I'm sooooooooo happy to see you! GBU, my sister!
DEANNE: Like you said...MORE THAN EVER! We are called to be salt and light. Salt is salty...and light is not hidden. I want to get to know you, my friend! GBU!
BARBARA: Your last few sentences say EVERYTHING. You were not in a wonderful place, and your life was difficult. Still...in the midst of that ...you found the gifts from God...the shady porch, the vegetables and fresh eggs, the beautiful sky and flowers...and most of all...your family. When you look at the problem...the problem is ALL you can see. When you focus on the BLESSINGS...it's a whole new world.
Whatever is going on in your life right now...today...JUST KNOW that you are special and loved more than you can ever know by your Heavenly Father. GBU!
Except for the grace of God, there go I...we just need to remember and not judge. Thanks for the thought provoking post.
Elizabeth, Thank you for your passion your vision and your determination. Someday I will explain why I became a REALTOR but for today thanks you for you LOVE of ALL people.
Elizabeth....WOW....what a moving story. You are a very special person. The world could use a whole lot more of people like you - thanks for sharing your passion with us.
Elizabeth ~ Wow! I love reading your posts and this one really touched my heart (you've got a way with words.) I cannot imagine anyone getting mad reading it (and if someone does, I suppose you'll really have to feel sorry for them.)
You're now officially one of my heros.
I would like to get to know you also. I have a feeling it would be great to spend some time with you. I posted my first blog this morning. I am excited to be a part of this group because of passionate people like you.
Elizabeth - what a very moving story and your reasons for becoming a Realtor. Good on you for helping people and for giving people a voice.
Elizabeth,
I tracked this post from it's inception, so I get the e-mails when new comments are made. I have been receiving quite a few e-mails lately, as this one has been rekindled in the forums. You already know how I feel about this subject. I think I've made my feelings known pretty well to those who read my own blog. I'm commenting here to keep this post out there for others to read.
Thanks for your spirit and I thank God for His wisdom in placing you in the path of all those you help. You are the right person for the job.
Liz,
I thank God for people like you . For you remind me that we have a higher calling. You remind me that it is ok to fight injustice. You remind me that when I get tired, there is much work to do. We must help the least of our brothers.
If not us.....then who?
If not now....then when?
God Bless You and your family and those precious children who started you on your journey
Leander
Elizabeth, you are blessed and a blessing! What a combination.
BeBlessed
John
Elizabeth,
This is truly a God story. Thanks for sharing! GBU
Elizabeth - Thank you for sharing that wonderful story! You are indeed an amazing person! An angel right here on Earth!
Right on Lady! You rock!
kk