Exactly Where God Wants Her

By Elena A.

A couple of months ago, I had the joy of visiting my daughter, who is on mission in Brazil, in Simões Filho. Before this trip, and despite what she told me, I didn’t fully understand what the work of the missionaries consisted of. I was used to thinking of missions as something more concrete: painting a school, teaching children, or bringing material aid. However, when I arrived, I understood that this mission is completely different; it is a surprisingly simple and transformative mission: it is not about doing, but about being; not about offering things, but about offering one’s heart.

I understood that presence, listening, and accompaniment are treasures more valuable than any material aid. I saw how the volunteers integrate themselves into the daily life of the neighborhood, sharing simple joys, accompanying in times of pain, visiting homes, listening to stories, and above all, being available with a love that asks for nothing in return. Their mission is not based on great works, but on being present, on offering sincere listening and close accompaniment. From the first day, I felt the warmth of their friends. Every person who greeted me did so with joy, and every child who ran to hug me filled my heart with pure happiness. I felt truly welcome.

Despite the difficulties and challenges of each day, I could see the joy with which the volunteers live out their mission. The local people truly love them. They walk calmly through the neighborhood, greeting each “friend” by name, opening their doors to those who need company, sharing afternoons of games with children who are just looking for affection, and each one of them is so special, so unique. I realized that the mission is more received than given, because each encounter leaves a mark on those who serve and those who are accompanied.

I also saw something that, as a mother, filled me with immense emotion: my daughter’s growth. I saw her more mature, more free, more capable of loving. I saw with my own eyes what she was trying to explain to me: the meaning of “just being there,” of accompanying without words, of being a silent presence like Mary at the foot of the cross. That way of loving, so simple and so strong, taught me that true love only needs availability, fidelity, and an open heart.

And although I said goodbye with sadness because I miss her so much, seeing her so happy, so fulfilled, so loved by everyone, gave me peace and the certainty that she is exactly where God wants her to be, living a calling that she has accepted with generosity and courage. Her mission not only transforms the lives of those around her, but also mine, because it reminds me every day that great deeds do not always change the world, but a small gesture made with love can transform a heart.