Encouragement

We all need encouragement. Amelia needs encouragement right now for reading. Meredith for using the potty. Malin for still feeling tired after having malaria. And I needed encouragement today after spending 3 hours removing genital warts. I know that sounds unpleasant. It was unpleasant. But as I was feeling sorry for myself for missing lunch again, wondering if my surgery was making any difference in this patient with AIDS, Dr. Wesche quietly came in behind me. He had asked me to perform the surgery in the first place for this lady and has worked at Tenwek over 30 years. "Wow," he said, "Look at how much you have relieved her suffering. Some people wouldn't have bothered because of her status, but she couldn't even sit. You have helped her so much." These were the words I needed to hear and not forget. We are here to help however and whomever God places in our care.  My thoughts needed redirection away from myself and back to her. Dr. Wesche has set this example for countless years. His humility, compassion and servant's heart are spoken of frequently. What a legacy to leave and to encourage in a young physician!