Alan Cavan has supported Habitat for many years, volunteering in Habitat ReStore Lisburn for 8 years, as well as volunteering on-site both locally and globally.
Advent, the four weeks before Christmas, is a time of expectant waiting and preparation for the birth of Jesus and the return of Christ at the second coming. In these uncertain times, due to COVID- 19, let’s take time to reflect. Around 600BC an Ethiopian called Aesop wrote in one of his Fables “No act of kindness no matter how small is ever wasted” How true today.
Earlier this year a team of fifteen travelled to Ethiopia for the Danny Burns Legacy Build. Danny worked tirelessly for Habitat. He died in September 2018. This trip was a fitting tribute to this remarkable man. Danny’s son and daughter joined us in Ethiopia.
I’ve been asked a number of times “How did you enjoy the trip; did you have a good time?” How do you answer that? I had an amazing experience; one I will never forget. I enjoyed the companionship of really wonderful team members. Each, in their own way, contributing to the work.
I believe what we accomplished was a huge leap forward for the locals. We worked on seven homes. While building we left our rucksacks in one of the shacks. More like a coal bunker; it was dark, with a dirt floor and no front door. Totally inadequate for a family.
The people of Ethiopia are warm and friendly. A handshake is not sufficient. You get a bear hug and a kiss on each cheek. A 90 year old additionally said “Welcome and thank you for helping” The next day we formed a human chain to carry concrete blocks from the outside street to the building site. I was last in the line. The 90 year old appeared and I had the greatest difficulty telling her not to lift the blocks, she was so keen to help.
Prayer
Please God help us do more. You are always there to provide for us. Give us the strength to help others. Let us obey what Jesus taught us to Love God and Love your neighbour. Help Habitat for Humanity make a difference, building a new world ONE HOME AT A TIME.
