Yesterday's quotations made me wonder: if I wrote a thank you note to Munni and Sovanna, what would I say? I came up with several reasons why I'm grateful for them:

Munni and Sovanna have opened my eyes to a different part of the world, and not just through their fantastic drawings (see above). With each letter or prayer for them, I discover more of God's heart for justice and mercy. His redemption knows no bounds, and it is exiting to be a part of that.

As my heart for them grows, I want them to see themselves as God does: beloved daughters of the King. Yet in trying to emphasize that, my self-perception has changed. They are as fearfully and wonderfully made as I am, but do I live out of that identity?

Since sponsoring my girls, my habits have changed. I love to shop, but I increasingly find myself wondering, "Do I need that? Could this money be put to better use?" (And almost always, the answer is yes.) I am more conscious of each dollar I spend and what I am supporting by those choices. In the end, the money isn't mine -- it's God's -- and my choices either glorify Him or glorify myself.

I'm thankful that my sponsorship gives my girls access to a solid education, a nutritious meal, and interaction with adults who will love and encourage them. They are so worthwhile.

I am thankful that what started as something sacrificial has become joyful. What I hoped was life-giving for them has brought me life, as well.

So my tip for this Tuesday is to think about how or if sponsorship has changed your heart. And if it has, write that down. Send it to your sponsored child. One of our goals at Mission of Mercy is that a sponsored child will learn that he or she can change the world. Wouldn't it be cool for them to know -- to know -- that the first person they changed was you?

Happy Thanksgiving!