By Abraham Shepherd, President of CGR
Abraham has worked "hands on" with refugees and refugee projects worldwide for over a decade. Below are simple yet profound tips for any of us thinking about working with refugees.
Overcome any prejudice, fear, and doubts about refugees that creep into our lives from the media. We should care for the widow, orphan, and stranger living among us.
Understand what it means to be "forcibly displaced." Why would a person leave all their possessions and familiar surroundings behind and move to a strange new place?
Start seeing refugees with a compassionate heart and not the views of the world.
Welcome them into our country, culture, and way of life.
Realize what it means to show love in a tangible way and meet felt needs. One of the greatest ways to show love to a forcibly displaced person is to simply get to know them. When we are involved in the life of a person in need, we overcome our own fears and preconceived notions.
Be the first person to welcome a refugee family to their new home. This can be the foundation of a long-term relationship and showing love.
Be their friend. You can become their advocate, a voice-for-the-voiceless.