The Re-entry Process
Sorry about the long delay, but. . . .WE ARE BACK! (At least physically, our hearts may still be M.I.A. for a while). I know for myself, I have visited this blog numerous times in the past few weeks that we have been home. Each time, I feel a great burden to write and invite all you wonderful supporters and friends into our journey, but my heart just can’t seem to find the words as my mind still struggles to wrap around all that has happened.
“So how was your trip?” you all want to know. WELL, how long do you have? Are you asking casually cuz you know we’ve been gone or do you REALLY want to hear what is on my heart? For the easy answer, “The trip was wonderful as you might imagine”. All the logistics went quite smoothly; the long (incredibly long) flights, in-and-out of different countries, sleeping accommodations, transportation, new foods (including LOTS of rice), etc... All of our needs were well provided for, and we were humbled by the servant hearts that embraced us and made it their mission to serve US while we visited!
The Agape girls were just wonderful! The ladies from our team finally understood the love and connection I’ve been raving about for the past three years. The girls embraced us almost immediately and showered us with love and affection which we gladly returned. They really engaged with the art projects we introduced to them. They especially took to sewing. They made cell-phone pouches, small cloth backpacks, purses, and embroidered pillows. It’s great to see them become engaged in something that can be of use in their futures. We were in awe of their dedication and perseverance when it got tough. We also made some great stationary using native papers, dried flowers, banana tree leaves, and coconut husks. The girls were quite creative when it came to using the resources of their surroundings to do art. Some of the girls had quite a talent for drawing as well. We tried our best to teach them a few things such as drawing from life rather than from symbols in their mind. It was a good stretch for them to draw or paint from a tropical still life that Alisa set up. We can’t wait to show you what they made . . . so keep in touch as we make arrangements to show their work soon.
As for me, my experience can be summed up as “affirmation”. It just made sense to be there for me. My heart is drawn to that place and everything about it. I was encouraged by the missionaries that serve there full-time. They really took the opportunity to invest in me and provide some great insight into my future there in the Philippines. I WILL BE BACK NEXT SPRING and the following years as well. It was wonderful to be able to answer with confidence as the girls begged us not to go and asked us if we would come again. Saying “good-bye” became a “see you later”, and my heart could handle that. This is the beginning of something big for me. The Lord humbled me and broke me, reminding me of all that I have yet to learn to be a sufficient leader for Him. There were many struggles I encountered while leading my first team abroad, but I am thankful for all those challenges and the lessons they provide for building me up as an effective mission team leader.
My immediate journey from here includes processing all that has happened, including the things the Lord has revealed to me through my struggles as areas of growth. In time, I know I will regain that “productive” spirit that pushed me to big accomplishments, but as for the moment I know that there are relationships in my life that need my attention. Soon enough, we will begin preparations for the 2008 trip in hopes that we can be much better organized with plenty of flex time this time around. Keep your eyes peeled for the unveiling art show of the “Post-Philippines” experience.
We cannot thank you each enough for your support and encouragement in ALL forms. This would not have been possible without your commitment to us and this ministry.
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