The Bible states in Zechariah 4:10, “Do not despise the day of small things.”
I have been constantly reminded of that verse lately. I saw it on Facebook, then I heard it in a sermon, and lastly, it was a daily verse on my phone. When I witness a recurring theme such as this, I wonder, Lord are you trying to tell me something?
So I began to examine my life, thinking of my current situation and how I had to take an early retirement from a successful career to return to school, and now I am an intern with Partners in Health and Wholeness. In addition, I began to think of my humble childhood here in Hoke County; I think of my parents and my grandparents and how their childhood was even more humble and meager than mine. Also, I think of my children beginning their lives and careers and the paths they will take. All are humble or small things, but with God in these small beginnings rests the potential for great finales.
My point is this: My humble beginnings, my family, my chance to finish college and the opportunity to intern with Partners in Health and Wholeness are a true blessing. PHW is reinforcing some of the very teachings that my family instilled while I was growing up here in Hoke County in regards to spiritual beliefs, gardening, and respecting nature.This internship has been an awakening.
I challenge everyone to reach back to their small beginnings and embrace them. Whatever that may be, if it is farming, fishing or just reconnecting with relatives. This internship has helped reveal to me that my small beginnings have potential for great finales. I have been able to enjoy wisdom from my parents about gardening, processing and storing foods. Finally, I am gaining a deeper interest in gardening with my family, such as enjoying this bountiful harvest with my aunts Aleatha Locklear and Elisha Dial. I invite you to share a little about what your humble beginnings may have been.
–Johnny Rogers, PHW Intern
