The Destructive Nature of Poverty
I would like to put a lot of thought into this subject through writing at some point, but for now I just offer an example that has made me cry today from grief. I just found out this morning that a neighborhood lady down our street who has had a fairly successful (by Togolese standards) tailoring business died on Christmas Day. I had noticed that her business was closed, but assumed she had gone to visit relatives for the holidays. Our house helper, Aimee, asked on the 23rd where she was and her next door neighbor said she was sick. She went in to see her and found her to be very sick and lethargic. She asked her why she hadn’t been to the doctor and her elderly mother and daughter said she would be ok and get better soon. Aimee realized later that they simply didn’t have the money to pay for a doctor’s visit. Aimee gave them what extra she had (the equivalent of about 2 US dollars) and told her to go to the doctor.
On the 24th she went to a clinic (I don’t know where), they gave her some injection, and then on the 26th and 27th Aimee asked after her and her family said she’d “gone out”. Yesterday, she asked after her again and she found out that she had actually died and been buried quietly on the 25th.
Our smiling neighborhood seamstress made a shirt and fixed a skirt for Hannah two months ago. I had promised to bring her material after the new year to make an African dress for me. I have waved at her and greeted her for 2 years every time I walk or drive up and down our road. I asked her for her name and she told me a month ago, but I don’t remember it now.
I am filled with regret that when I noticed her business was closed I didn’t ask after her and help her get to better medical care. I am very saddened that she died in a way that seems so needless. I am more saddened and frustrated by the mindset that poverty infuses in people that barely make enough to get by and support their family. This thinking is present even in people like our neighborhood seamstress who seemed to be thriving. I am hurt and burdened that many people don’t see any options for getting out of their present condition of sickness or disease and I am upset (in compassion) that so many individuals just helplessly wait to die. I am angry at the poor level of care given by incompetent doctors that recklessly prescribe medicines or give injections and whose actions result in people dying soon after receiving their assistance.
Life is treated recklessly and with little value here by so many. On a positive note, I have noticed the difference in many others who are followers of Jesus. He is changing (and has changed) their outlooks on life and its sanctity. Praise God!
What I have witnessed over the past 8 1/2 years is that poverty runs deep: physically, mentally, and spiritually. Oh, Lord, help!
Help those who are, and those who feel, helpless. Help me to see the poverty of flesh, mind, and spirit and find a way to respond. Help me somehow be more a part of the way you want to deliver the people all around me who live in this condition.
Becky,
Thank you for sharing this. I understand your frustration and experience my own version of it frequently. Rest assured, its not just the people of Togo who seem resigned to such things – the epidemic of despair and disregard for life is rampant here in the States too. I see it every day. God bless you, Dave, and your team as continue to try to bring hope where it is needed most.
Mike
Becky, I am so sorry about your seamstress’ death. I am hurting with you over the fatalistic worldview that poverty brings into the lives of those around you. I am thankful for your compassionate heart.
Becky,
Thank you so much for sharing this experience and your grief in the midst of it. We experienced this as well and were heartbroken in similar ways…I am so thankful for your heart that sees and is moved by the circumstances of those that you have come to serve…God is at work!
You are a treasure!
This makes me sad and angry as well. I am trying to picture where this lady lived, and I have a picture in my mind…
Poverty and a mindset of helplessness is a big burden to fight– and only God is big enough– but of course He uses us…
Even where there is not poverty, people die when we think they shouldn’t—- but when it seems that something simple might have made the difference, it is hard to reconcile. I will pray for her family– and that in some way they may see God’s love in this situation.
Love you-
Becky, very aptly put. I feel so many of the same things and agree that there will be no rest for the weary here on earth. It makes the promise of what is to come so much sweeter.
Becky, I can’t believe this! Was she the lady that was pregnant? They were all so young and happy. This makes me so sad–I’ll post a picture on my blog. I want you to tell me which one she was. Thank you for sharing–I share your grief and frustrations!
How awful. I am sure it is heartwrenching to witness such needless deaths and my heart hurts for you and for your kids who witness this also. This sure reminds me of how fragile life truly is and how we never know when our time here will end. Hugs to you, sis. I’m sorry you are hurting.
I am so sorry! There is so much poverty all over the world. We have become a people who think only of ourselves. With Matt and I teaching FPU we have people come that are in so much financial despair they feel it is hopeless. Yet they have gotten themselves there by wanting more than they can afford and some are unwilling to change. It is really sad. We are such a blessed people if we would only start thinking more of others and less of ourselves this world would be a better place for all who live in it. My prayers are with you as always.
Hey Becky, I couldn’t find your email address…
Shea Lea told me that the young lady was the one who was expecting a baby. Do you know any other details? Is the child well? Does he/she have access to formula or a nurse? Please let us know if there is anything that we can do to help. I have felt very burdened about this today and need to know if the baby is taken care of.
Thank you!
Betsy