I began playing the violin when I was just two years old. Since the first time I put my eyes on a violin, I completely fell in love with playing this magnificent instrument. As the years went by, I discovered that music performance was what I wanted to do for a living. I realized that if I wanted to be a better professional, I would have to study abroad, thus sparking my dream of continuing my education in the United States.
I finished high school and the dream was still alive. However, I didn't have any financial means to pay for college, since I was living by myself and working, barely able to provide food and pay rent. I was offered a good scholarship at a university in Sao Paulo, and days before I was about to head to college, I had a deep conversation with God, asking Him to make my dream of studying abroad come true if it was His will. Exactly two days after my prayer, I got a call from Rogério Nunes, at Southwestern Adventist University, telling me there was a scholarship available for me at SWAU. I was speechless as I realized that God gave me that opportunity.
I still didn't have all the money I needed, so I spent two years searching for a sponsor but had no success. Then I decided once again to raise a prayer to God, asking Him to make His will come true in my life. If it was His will for me to stay in Brazil, I would do it. I asked Him to give me an answer, for I was tired of waiting.
The very next day, I got a phone call from someone telling me that all my school financial needs would be taken care of. Instantly I quit my job and sold everything to follow what I had always dreamed of.
The only thing I can say is to thank you for your generosity and for everything you have done for me and the other students who have the same dream to get access to education and knowledge. May God always bless you and your family.
"Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving." Colossians 3: 23-24.
João Flores