One day, not very long ago, I unexpectedly found myself in a helicopter. I know this probably sounds a little odd, but one minute I was cruising down the highway, innocently napping in the back seat of a car.... and the next minute I was turned sideways 1000 ft over the sparking blue Atlantic. I remember walking back to the car, feeling completely thrilled, a little dizzy ...and not really sure what had just happened.
In a lot of ways, the last 4 months have flown by like that helicopter ride. They've been stuffed full of moments that whizzed by at lightning speed. Some filled with wonder that took my breath away... and a few others that twisted my heart in knots and left me feeling nauseous. And before I even got started, it's time to start packing my suitcases again. But being in the USA for a while, to spend time with the people who are dear to my heart has been priceless. This will definitely be a summer full of memories that I'll always cherish.
One of my favorite experiences to share from the ministry here is about a Cambodian woman who I got the chance to know in upstate NY. The family studied the bible in the past with brothers from a local English hall and the mom has been regularly attending Sunday meetings in English for a number of years. But it's not easy with the language issues... so, we got in touch with a Cambodian cong. in eastern Massachusetts and (even though there were lots and lots of obstacles to overcome) she and I were able to make the long drive for a public talk and WT study. We also made arrangements for a Cambodian sister to study with her over the phone, and have a telephone tie-in to their meetings so that she can hear them in her own language. She genuinely seems to have a love for the truth and I hope getting to know it now in her mother tongue will help her to build the extra faith she needs.
It was also really wonderful to be with some fabulous people that I haven't seen in way too long. Like Shannon- my first roommate and partner in crime back when in all started in Santo Domingo 1999! It brought back so many good memories. Seems like only yesterday....
And there were plenty of wild rides with some amazing new friends too- literally!
(we're going to ride WHAT, where?!!) So much fun!
The Gilead School graduation was held on Sept 11th and it was really a treat to be there, not just for the blessing of getting to hear the wonderfully up-building program, but also to say farewell to some beloved friends from Ecuador who graduated in this class. Andy and Rachel are off in Madagascar now definitely on their way to fantastic adventures in their new assignment. I can only imagine how Jehovah must smile as He looks down on these great couples who give so much to help others :)
September 18th was a beautiful sunset in Vermont, and a perfect day for a wedding. I love Liz like a spiritual little sister and she and Tom make an amazing team. I was so glad to be there for the weekend and share those priceless moments with them.
The first annual Taciak Watersports Competition was held at Lake Hartwell in S.C. Events included: "rafting"?
synchronized backfliping
and of course, best costume
We had a family reunion; a long weekend on Folley Island to let ourselves soak in the sun and enjoy being together. It's been a long time since that's happened and, well, might be a long time until it happens again. Bittersweet. But the longer I'm away from the US the more I feel that (next to our relationship with Jehovah) the most valuable things we can possess are these days of gold that last forever.
So, the time has come to say goodbye, and in about 12 hours I'll be in the air again. This time not a helicopter, but a jet bound for Amman, Cairo, Tel Aviv, and incredibly, my new home in Cambodia.
As I sit here and think about that, it seems sometimes in life we get a first class ride and soar with the birds... and sometimes it feels more like getting shot out of a cannon and randomly catapulted thousands of feet in the air... either way, I guess the best thing to do is just buckle-up and enjoy- a wild ride & amazing view. Serving Jehovah means that there is always a safety net somewhere. (Although, I've learned it's still a good idea to always wear your helmet:)
"The blessing of Jehovah- that is what makes rich, and He adds no pain with it"
-Proverbs 10:22
