In recent months, for better or worse, I have tried to start making my decisions in the present, “existing in the now” and “appreciating the journey.” Believe it or not, I’ve relinquished some of my precious false-control and the result has been terrifying and astounding. It is in the silent moments of each day that I am learning to reflect on a few words written on the A-Train window in lower Manhattan: God is in the Details.
I can see these words being scratched on by any one of my fellow passengers. Preaching all that is good and holy, while dragging humble belongings in toe, the man with a lot to say but nowhere to shower, smiles. Or maybe it was a few angst-ridden teens leaving a vibrant church session, I will never really know. That is the beautiful thing about New York City: the diversity transcends the sanctity of words. Wall Street Brokers and Dancers and Hipsters and Moms & Dads and especially the guy in the bikini—they all bring depth, a silent passenger, adding meaning to my day, and destroying stereotypes with a small scribbled phrase: Yes, God is in the Details.
And it’s these words that have inspired palpable change. Be it crazy or bold or stupid, I have now left an incredible job in the entertainment industry, and plan on spending the next year in a classroom. Words that might have been written as a joke, or out of despair, I chose…I choose to see as a sign. So, in May, in honor of my newfound outlook on life and my “in the moment” mantra, I didn’t hesitate when an email came across my screen about a trip to Haiti. Why would I do that? Is it good for the people? Is this wise, financially? If I am going to take a vacation, wouldn’t backpacking in Europe be more fun? No, my hyper-political-control-freak-of-a-mind shut down when I read about a certain Doctor Franco and his clinic. This is supposed to happen, trust in the bigger picture: God is in the details.
So if you made it this far, I’m asking you from a place of sincere gratitude, to please consider helping fund my experience this August in Haiti. All proceeds will go towards my plane ticket and items to fill at least two 50lb. bags with medical supplies, clothing, hygiene products, books, diapers, etc.
Please note that any contributions beyond my Haiti expenses and supplies will be donated to Merkel Cell Carcinoma research at Dr. Nghiem’s lab at the University of Washington in honor of my amazing grandfather, William Riffel. Recently, so many of my close family and friends have suffered or are suffering the battle against cancer. Even if you don’t feel you can give at this time, I encourage you to learn more about disease and chronic illness and always, wear your sunscreen.
For more information, or to donate directly to the MCC fund, please visit: http://www.merkelcell.org/help/index.php
all my love,
sarah orscheln
