Who knew that in November of 2005 after a trip to Belize, Central America that my heart would be moved and changed by the children in this picture and their families. The small town of Santana Village, where they live, is a 45 minute car ride outside the port of Belize City. The last 20 minutes of that ride is over a rough rut filled, kidney jarring narrow dirt road.

The first thing you notice upon arrival through the dense jungle is the poverty of the area. The homes are in disrepair, often appearing as though they might fall apart with the next big wind. There is no running water, electricity or gas; meaning no air conditioning, showers, stove or oven for cooking. No washing machine or dryer. The basics are non existent. Yet in this simplistic lifestyle they are eager to share; friendship, a meal, a smile, conversation.

It was during this first visit of many that I was humbled to the center of my spirit. Through their graciousness, hospitality and wide open acceptance of me into their lives and community, these wonderful people gave me everything they  had to give, willingly. They displayed generosity in the face of extreme poverty. They portrayed compassion in the face of hardship and limitation. They gave when they had nothing to give but themselves.

Months have passed since my last visit. Life, purpose and the future have been questioned. All the while something was developing, stirring and working on me. Something that would have a HUGE impact on my life, creating a fire that cannot be extinguished. A passion that drives me and those that get caught up in this developing whirlwind called Trinity’s Angels.

March 28th, after sharing the concept that had been building with my friend Nicky this project seemed to take on a life of it’s own. Quickly a name was created, ideas flowed, plans made and goals set. She and I shared those thoughts with another friend Lesa and there seemed to be no boundaries to what we envisioned we could accomplish with support from friends, family and people we have yet to, but will, meet in the process. Trinity’s Angels has the potential to be a far bigger project than any one person could handle or be able to accomplish individually which is why it has spoken so deeply to me. It is not about one person but about many coming together to help those in need. Service to others.

Trinity’s Angels has taken hold in our lives and is building. It is a process, in the beginning stages, and is being developed and refined. Trinity’s Angels presents the chance to bring hope, dreams and belief to children who are limited in terms of resources. It is about people with resources giving to those without. It is about taking one forward step at a time to bring overflowing joy to the children of the world who lack the necessities of life; general aid, medical attention, housing, and adequate nutrition. It is about making a difference in the lives of others. It is about making a commitment.

I don’t know exactly where Trinity’s Angels will lead but I do know it will have an impact not only on those who receive but equally, if not more, on those who give. Pay It Forward.

 

Stephanie