The Heart In The Hustle

I have learned a lot of things this year. While my knowledge continues to expand, there is one thing that has been a constant roadblock. Misconception. When people hear the story, their initial reaction tends to be the same. It does not matter if the person is American or Nigerian for that matter…the questions begin.

Because we are human, we all have trust issues to some degree. Every one of us has been through situations that cause us to throw up walls.. guard ourselves…to see anything that sits outside of our understanding as untrustworthy. These perceptions are driven by hearsay…reputation created by the actions of a few at the expense of the whole.

I was never really aware of stories that involved Nigeria and the USA. I have never visited anyone from overseas. I was sequestered in a bubble of my own devising. I had trust issues. I had been hurt. I had suffered from trusting too much….so I had locked myself away.

I purposefully avoided messages. I was in my own little world..protected from the possibility of falling prey to what could devour me. I can never explain what caused me to shift. I can never describe what made me reply.

It happened in a split second. The next thing I knew I was transported…to a world that would change my life and my future. I was surrounded by warmth….dancing…smiles…and music. That feeling was infectious. I allowed myself to be open.. even when I had every reason not to be.

God knew my heart was not meant to be buried. He knew I struggled to trust….yet placed me in a situation where I had no choice. Not only did I have to trust but I had to convince others to trust me. It was an ultimate test of faith to follow blindly….and I had no idea what would come of it.

People always ask why I love Nigeria. Why it is so special to me. Why I make myself available. Why I do everything in my power to help….

The answer is simple…Nigeria is not just a country to me. It is in the people that I’ve found such love and admiration. I’ve met people that had lives more difficult…painful circumstances …shattered dreams…or an empty childhood…all the makings of what would break their spirit..but…INSTEAD..had an over abundance of Joy. I have experienced their laughter…peace…hope..love…determination..perseverance…strength…and the most powerful presence of God I have ever felt. The fact that where they came from made them who they are…with the hearts that they have….made me love Nigeria more.

It goes without saying that there is work to be done. If I can touch lives from here then surely I can change them. I want to help the people..no matter the choices they have had to make…or the doubts that cloud their minds. No matter how patient I have to be, my heart and intentions are worn like a badge of honor.

The journey has only just begun. God continues to point me to what needs to be done, He sits me next to those who want to help, and He has blessed me with someone I can trust.

More of the story will be revealed in time…but for now, I can tell you….the world does not define anyone…not them…not you…not me. You must look beyond the surface…you could miss out on the greatest people of your life because of a simple misconception.