Merry-Go-Rounds

Merry-go-round or carousel? “Merry-go-round” and “carousel” are synonyms (words that mean the same thing). Seen mostly in amusement parks or carnivals. The ride started out as a game to train soldiers (on horses) in competition in the 1100s. The definition of the difference between a “merry-go-round” and a “carousel” is that “in Europe tend to turn clockwise. The ones in North America tend to turn counterclockwise. Some have all sorts of animals while others has only horses.”

What does a merry-go round mean to you?

One of my favorite rides in the amusement parks as a child was the merry-go-round or carousel. Whichever word you prefer!

My husband and I like to walk a lot especially in one of our parks. It was a cloudy Saturday but very nice temperatures. Not too hot and just enough of a breeze to enjoy walking. It was the first weekend since our state lifted the mask mandate and social distancing in some instances. Felt like freedom! (smile)

We were relaxing a little bit in front of a newly opened carousel for kids! Brought back memories of when I was a little girl. My husband, Moses and I were sharing our thoughts about it. Mine was that those were simpler times. How the carousel never lasted long, just about 2 minutes it seemed, and you got off! I told him how disappointed I was every time! (smile) It was also one of the safest rides in the amusement parks. Not too much can go wrong on these! I felt apprehensive about some of the other rides, like roller coasters, spider (swing). lol

We both shared how the world has changed so much since we were children. People are not so friendly and most even before the pandemic were frustrated and lots of families centered on themselves only. The pandemic has only heighted I believe what was already developing. So much anger, discord, and hatred.

Matthew 24:12, “Because of the increase of wickedness, the love of many will grow cold.”

My husband shared that in a different culture, the merry-go-round has a different meaning. For farmers, saving money it’s very difficult and those who qualify to obtain farming bank loans are few. As a result, it is extremely challenging to pay back these loans. In addition, their homes are in secluded areas 100 miles from the nearest bank. Here the “merry-go-round” are small groups where small sums of money are contributed on a regular basis, often every week. Each gathering money is collected, the full sum is paid out to one in the group they have chosen fairly. Everyone is given a turn of receiving the support! The participants each save for the week to bless that selected individual knowing their turn is coming as well! Sometimes, friends in the group will cover each other’s contribution during weeks they have no money. Surprisingly, they have found this works! They are not only able to pay off their loans but school fees and transport! And they have a lot left over until the next time! This group formed with the intention to help with farming loans but has now continued with whatever project is needed.

This merry-go-round support has been a blessing in other ways! The bonding and face-to-face interaction within the community. Soon they are sharing their personal experiences, asking for advice, and having the opportunity to relax and chat.

This is a beautiful model!

This is what Christ intends for all of us to do! Serving and loving one another. Whether it is family or neighbors. People who share a commonality. This is so needed because so many are struggling in our world. These people formed a group because they had sympathy for others going through challenges similar to them! They had compassion! They believed by helping others, they could help themselves! My husband, Moses reiterated how each would plan a meeting and when they came together purposed to arrive with a blessing (mostly monetary) to give to the one who was selected prior. Even though they all were barely getting by themselves, they scraped together the best offering they could for that individual. The person was obviously touched and blessed! And who knew, the next gathering, the one giving could be the recipient the next time! It is called networking! It is not the will of God to forever social distance or lock down. This is the new normal for the world but not in God’s kingdom. For the Bible tells us the world system is an enemy of God’s. They do not agree.

In my training for counseling in ministry, we are taught the person must feel they are in a safe place to share what is on their heart. And not feel condemned. The merry-go-round group spoken of here, evidently are in such a trusted environment.  

Jesus was moved with compassion for the sick, poor, and needy. The scriptures tell us before He ministered, He was driven by wanting to help them!

Matthew 9:36, “But when He saw the multitudes, He was moved with compassion for them, because they were weary and scattered, like sheep having no shepherd.”

I do pray the new normal is one of creating a better future for our children and children’s children should the Lord tarry! One of a compassionate heart of Jesus and love of the Father! One where we are not afraid to stand for Christ and what He commanded us to speak! The truths of God’s Word! The Believers are ambassadors for Christ in the earth. If we don’t care enough to tell others of God’s sending His Son, why Jesus went to the Cross, and the meaning of God raising Him from the dead, who does and who will?

Luke 6:38, “Give and it shall be given back to you, good measure, pressed down, and running over.”

Giving is not always monetary, but a smile, eye contact, a hello, good morning, have a nice day or prayer! Ecclesiastes 9:10, “Whatsoever your hand finds to do, do it with your might.” But be a light! Grow the kingdom of God and drive out the darkness! One reaches one!

There is no better time than the present! The Great Awakening!

Marguerite Wafula