She was waiting just inside of The Smiling Elephant when Rachel and I arrived. We realized we were all there for the same reason: Casi, the birthday girl, who was not yet there. Amanda smiled wide and introduced herself. She was friendly as could be but I was half in awe of this beautiful girl talking to us. I suppose a part of me mentally travels back to high school whenever confronted with someone I deem to be part of the popular crew. Those insecurities die hard, even when they have no reason to stick around in the first place.
Funny, warm, and sincere, Amanda quickly won me over as we made small talk until Casi and a couple of others arrived.
{I laugh at myself now. Amanda is one of the most down to earth people I know and I'm sure she's both mortified and mystified I ever felt this way.}
Amanda and Casi worked together at Visiting Orphans. Casi, someone I'd known back in Illinois, was still new to Nashville and her coworkers swiftly made her feel at home. As we chatted over Thai curries, I could see why. These ladies were fun. Still, there was no indication we'd hang out aside from whatever gatherings Casi planned.
And then I saw it. Amanda and I were seated kitty-corner from one another, allowing me a glimpse of her wrist tattoo. I hadn't yet gotten my wrist tattoo but I felt more of an affinity with her now. Wrist tattoo power. Now I knew we would be friends.
A few months later, Casi suggested Amanda join our Dinner Club and we all agreed. One of our best decisions yet.
Since then, Amanda has become one of my dear friends and life is better for having her in it. She is quick to encourage and commiserate, freely dispenses smiles and hugs, and has such an open heart and free spirit. She inspires me on a regular basis.
Now, more than ever.
It's one thing to work for an organization dedicated to caring for orphans. It's another to up the ante by dreaming up a program and moving to Africa to make it happen.
That's just what Amanda Herdina is doing.
Through heArts to hope, Amanda plans to build a center for Ugandan children and young adults to learn creative expression, whether photography, painting, music, or fashion. The center will be a place of healing and respite for those who have been affected by war, famine, and trauma. It will be staffed with art teachers and counselors. Art therapy is a powerful tool and there is no telling what freedom and healing will occur.
Amanda won't be doing this on her own. Next month she'll return to Uganda on a Vision Trip to meet with Visiting Orphans' partners on the ground and discuss next steps and what will be needed. Then in May, she'll move there, with the intent to return to the US after a year and leave the center in the local partners' capable hands.
Does this not excite you and fill you with hope? It is always a thrill to see a loved one step out in faith and follow God's call but it is even more thrilling to envision this center and the lives it will change.
I am going to miss my friend dearly but I look forward to seeing how everything comes together.
If you want to follow Amanda's journey, please be sure to check out her blog and follow her on Twitter. For more details on the heArts to hope art center, read about the Vision here. Please join me in praying for Amanda as she prepares for this adventure and if you feel so led, you can give financially here.
I have a feeling this is only the beginning for Amanda. Watch out, world.
Amanda, I love your heart and willingness to go, be, and love. I am a better person for knowing you. And while Nashville won't be the same without you, I'm proud of you for taking this leap.
Do you know any world changers?
