Following my own advice to let go of self-help books for a while and enjoy biographies instead (see advice for Self-Help Addiction here) I was blessed to find the story of a Lidia Schaefer, a manicurist in Washington DC who worked for 10 years and gave all that she has to build a school in her native village of Feres Mai, Ethiopia.  The story was featured on NPR’s RoughCuts in January around the time of the media blitz for Oprah’s school.

After the nine-year old girl that she sponsored was killed by hyenas on a 3 hour walk home from the nearest school, Schaefer was moved to begin raising funds to build a more centrally located school.  She saved her income, raised money from salon customers and sold her home, car and all non-essential belongings to eventually raise $258,000 to build the school which now serves 1000 children.  Her efforts had a trickle down effect: not only do the children benefit but the development brought work for many in the region. 

Lidia Schaefer is not a powerhouse celebrity with deep pockets, but in her own persistent way she has moved mountains and made a very real impact in the lives of many.  What an amazing lady! 

This story reminds me that we do not have to own a lot, be powerfully connected or wealthy to make a difference.  We need the power of purpose.   

To consider:   What manageable and persistent steps will you take to make a difference for someone or some cause that you believe in?

You can learn more about Lidia Schaefer on the Lidia School website.  I also highly recommend listening to NPR’s podcast that features Ms. Schaefer and other "Ordinary Oprahs" who are truly extraordinary, inspirational people.