During my time in El Salvador I met a wonderful woman named Nely. Nely is recently employed by Global Outreach Developments to be a help in management over in El Salvador. She was with us everyday of our trip–staying with us through the hard times, laughing and dancing with us through the good ones. I am beyond excited for her to continue working with us as we move things forward in Latin America.
The first few days of our El Sal trip we spent at a place called La Posada—a beautiful hotel built on the side of one of the mountains. One of the nights I was out on the balcony and I began a conversation with Mrs. Nely. She was vulnerably sharing her health issues and what she has had to endure throughout her life. She said something that has stuck with me: “Each person has their share of trials but God brings us together and works all of our pain together for good. Sophia, if you lack faith it will be difficult for you to view any of your pain as something capable of being used for good.”
This is a challenging lesson to grasp. It’s a complete battle of flesh and spirit. The Lord wants to help us move forward and find light through the pain but our flesh lacks hope. It lacks any foresight that would help know the steps to grow and experience any peace. Mrs. Nely is an incredible woman and the words she spoke to me that night will forever stick with me and inform the way I endure challenges in the future.