As a 22 year-old recent graduate, I found that life doesn't always go as you've planned. My job search was less than thrilling and I wasn't sure what God was telling me to do next. All I knew is that, for some reason, I had an aching desire to go to Africa. I've never been, had no idea what it was like, but knew that there were French speaking regions, which is where I needed to go.One Sunday night after a Table service, I found information about the GO! Trips that CPC offers. It was then that I met Missions Pastor Paul Tshihamba, and the next thing I knew, I was packing my bags and heading to the Congo. Our group travelling together was small and intimate, consisting of only four of us. None of us knew what to expect, but we followed Paul's lead and were looking forward to what we would find.Beni, Congo must be one of the poorest places on earth. For one week, we watched these people walk barefoot, wear torn clothing, and live in houses made strictly out of mud and sticks. There was minimal running water and electricity, and kids found entertainment in playing with old tires. I couldn't understand how it was possible that so many people were living in such poverty. As the week went on, we met numerous Congolese, heard their stories of trials and tribulations, and witnessed their profound optimism that has brought them to where they are today.
After spending much time with some of them, learning about their lives, goals, and aspirations, I realized that each person had one common denominator: happiness. Not once did I meet someone who was negative or upset about something. I never heard a complaint or worry. I didn't even see a frown. These people were happy. Happier than anyone I've ever met. So happy that my words will never do justice to the joy that I witnessed. I wondered what it was that made them this way when they came from so little, and most had nothing. And then I realized, maybe it was just that: nothing. They had nothing to worry about, nothing to complain about, nothing to fear, nothing to upset them. They don't have the distractions of technology and electronics, things breaking down, having to rely on other people to get you something or somewhere. Nothing.
I left the Congo thinking about my own happiness and how these people have inspired me to think differently. I am blessed to have met such extraordinary and exceptional people who have changed my world and the way I see it. They have reminded me that God will prosper through any circumstance, and they have taught me one simple thing: Maybe less really is more.
