Over the last few years, responding vs. reacting has become a goal of mine. The impact on my life has been profound. With the oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico, I see a special opportunity -- “Give a man a fish and he’ll have a meal. Teach a man how to fish and you’ll provide him a way to live.”
A few years ago we met an amazing 10-year-old girl, Elizabeth. Having lost both of her parents, she faced an uncertain future. As her foster and eventually adoptive parents, our lives have been forever enriched, humbled, and enlightened. We knew we could not change or replace any unpleasant childhood memories. However, we did know that we could influence, guide and impact her tween/teen years. She continues to excel and shine spiritually, personally and academically. We are so very proud of her.
One of my heart commitments to Elizabeth was to share with her the best, and no so best, of my life experiences and explain what pulled or pushed me to make the choices I made. Five years ago, I served with the American Red Cross as a volunteer. Within a week after Hurricane Katrina devastated the Gulf Coast, I was in Mobile Alabama doing a variety of jobs, from rescuing injured dogs, serving meals, delivering first aid supplies and being present to listen to people who had lost so much.
With the devastation caused by the recent oil spill, my connection to our neighbors to the south is calling. I believe we can help: Elizabeth and I are driving to Mobile beginning on Friday, August 6, bringing needed supplies and picking up supplies from various organizations. While en route, we will keep an online blog, posting stories and pictures. We will share our experiences as we perform various tasks and participate in projects. Our goal is to make a difference during our journey, while we’re there, and back home.
Elizabeth will be creating a video/text blog from her phone by 8/6/2010. Very cool to see it from a teen’s prospective.
I welcome your ideas and thoughts. The effects of the disaster are long term. I feel that this week-long trip will provide an opportunity for us and others to become emotionally connected and physically engaged with a situation that will need our attention for many years to come. I hold to the Truth that we are all a part of the solution to every aspect of our world.
There are several ways to be a part of this experience.
1. Follow us on www.danielwstoner.blogspot.com
2. If you would like to help sponsor our trip financially, send any contribution to Daniel Stoner PO Box 7712, Overland Park, Kansas, 66207-9998. Contributions made to Elizabeth and me will be used for expenses, purchasing supplies en route and donations to individuals/families/organization. non tax deductible
Donations can be made directly to Mobile Bay Keeper also.
3. Mobile Baykeeper 300 Dauphin Street, Suite 200_Mobile, AL 36602 info@mobilebaykeeper.org_Phone: (251) 433-4BAY (4229) or Toll Free 1-888-433-4460 Fax: (251) 432-8197 tax deductible
4. Contact me if you would like to make a supply donation for the drive to Mobile. I’ll post items needed. Cargo space is limited.
Please keep this journey in your heart and mind. Holding for us and for all we meet, healing, safety, purpose, energy, mindfulness, compassion and wellness.
I would be deeply grateful if you would consider forwarding this information to others you know who might be interested in participating in this spiritual journey--through prayers, donations or other support.
Many blessings,
Daniel Stoner
Daniel@danielwstoner.com 336-327-5993or www.danielwstoner@aol.com
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