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Soaring – Bishop's Blog
Entrepreneurial Spirit
May 7, 2009
I was just reflecting on my trip to Liberia this February and recalled an interesting encounter with some young entrepreneurs.
We were on our way to visit the Ganta Medical Hospital, when we came across three boys who had placed a long pole across the road ... like a road block. As we approached I noticed the boys were all busy filling large pot holes in the road. I was told the holes were there since the wars and had not been repaired. We slowed down and the boys removed the pole so we could pass through. We then proceeded on to Ganta.
On the return trip the boys were still busy working on the road, and once again we encountered their homemade road block. But, by this time it dawned on me that these boys were working to repair the road -- not because they were compelled to do so but because they thought maybe someone would notice and reward them for their work. I told our driver to slow down. I reached in my pocket and took out the Liberian money I had and gave it to them. The boys jumped with joy and smiled while we took pictures of them.
As we drove on our way back to Gbarnga City, I realized that I had just witnessed young boys finding a way to bless those who traveled the road, and in doing so they were blessed, as well. These boys demonstrated a trait that many of us need to imitate. Look around and see what can be done that needs to be done -- something that will bless the community -- and do it. In doing so, you will bless yourself.
Oh, if we would but look around, there are pot holes that need to be filled in our communities. I pray that God will give us the strength to do so.
See also these "Journey to Africa" columns by Bishop James Swanson:
Part 1: Spiritual abundance amidst such poverty
Part 2: Liberia -- Where are the animals?
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