Week 45: A Glimpse of a Different Culture and The Divine Worth of All Souls

A large percentage of the people we meet are very poor by American or global standards.  The consistently hot days and hot nights allow people to live almost outside.  A home does not really need to protect a person from the elements except rain and it is just part of life and the water quickly disappears in the many drains, ditches, and open sewers.  There is no need to buy much more than the shirt or dress on your “back” because winter, fall, or spring clothes are not needed. The climate is always hot and dry or hot and rainy. The hot weather every single afternoon promotes many middle aged people to sleep to avoid the heat and not have energy to do much.  The younger under 30 are working and the elderly are raising the grandchildren.   Many people do not have material things or conveniences but just enough to sustain their basic needs for existence.  Many work for just enough money to eat and have a simple place to sleep.  The basic food of rice that sustains many leads to diabetes, strokes, and a short life span.  

In comparison to this simplistic life I am describing, Robert and I are reminded about how we grew up, the homes in which we raised our children, the consistent pay checks from continuous professional employment, our many conveniences, beautiful cars,  furniture, houses, lands, flocks and herds.  We have been blessed to be self reliant.  We were able to receive a great education and have worked in the work place of our choice.  An individual's hard work here in Indonesia does not always bring self reliance, or bring to pass the “good life” we are all accustomed to in America.  

With great humility I share three photos of the sweetest 40 year old woman’s home who is a widow. Her husband passed away one year ago.  She has two children being raised by Muslim elderly grandparents in another location.  This is an example of many homes that we visit.  Her home she shares with another woman who works opposite 12 hour shifts 5-6 days each week.  We waited in the hallway before we entered as we sat and shared a wonderful message together.  

We are so thankful for everything we have. As a missionary we comfort the poor and the needy. We teach self reliance.  We minister to bring happiness to everyone and help all to receive all the joy Heavenly Father has to offer.  Many do find great  peace within The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The gift of salvation is for everyone.   We know that Heavenly Father recognizes that every soul of every culture rich or poor is of divine worth.