Yesterday it was sad to view the video release of the two French journalists held by the Taliban. The men were engaging a passion for their craft: finding the perfect story. They are now pleading for a bit of mercy. It is increasingly dangerous for journalists to move about freely in regions of conflict unless secured within a military safety net. And yet across the globe there remains the unseen hand of hope extended to the less fortunate; a cadre of Christians seeking to give that "cup of water" in Christ's name.
So my thoughts turned to a friend, Omar Garcia, a man who engages life in the crosshairs of the dangerous zones of the world for the love of the poor, and in many cases, the plight of the women. Sure, he is "missions pastor" for his local church. But he is not an average guy. While many such leaders take the hop to more stable regions for photo opportunities such as passing off a ten pound bag of rice to a hungry kid, Mr. Garcia travels an unconventional path.
My introduction to this humanitarian engaged in global philanthropy came as he was building a team to provide medical care and assistance to one of the IDP camps in the Sudan. Denied the opportunity to ride the Sudanese range as it was declared too dangerous, I settled for a later medical mission to the steppes of Mongolia. A well-organized venture by a capable man, it was two weeks of hard work with a treasure of memories on my return.
Last time I heard from Omar he was landing in Dubai, en route to Uganda. Traveling in grueling manner through multiple time zones this dynamo of a friend does not lead a glamorous life. It is a difficult life. Did I mention that he loves the poor and cares deeply about women's issues?
Should you choose to take a season to reach across the globe in like manner be sure to tag-team with a leader who knows the ropes. The drama which devolved in Haiti is exemplary of the law of unintended consequences when Americans blast off into the unknown with inept and incompetent leadership. It is important not to violate laws, culture or customs when moving into humanitarian relief projects.
Today Omar has posted a blog on prostitution. It is good to pause and reflect on America and the character of her people today. We remain a generous people with diminishing opportunities to serve others in many regions of the world. Omar Garcia takes flight multiple times a year to zones of instability and poverty carrying the baggage of hope. He does it, for all of the right reasons.
Journal of Omar Garcia
Tammy Swofford
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