Nope, I'm excited. But I'm not frantic like I was last time. I basically freaked out last time I went. I mean, I'd never been to Africa, I had no idea what to expect and figured I wouldn't be prepared no matter how much I tried.
When I clicked the "register" button in 2011 I couldn't believe this dream was actually coming true. That God was finally sending me to a place my heart had been for years. My head reeled with everything that needed to be done and list upon list was made so I wouldn't forget.
This time, a calm washed over me when I clicked that same button. The peaceful feeling of knowing you'll soon be headed home. Yeah, that's right, I said it...home.
Yes, Sumner, WA is my home. My family is there, I grew up there and my dad is buried there. It's where I go for Christmas and where the majority of my thoughts and prayers get sent, where I wish I could be on holidays, weekends and when I'm lonely. I also call Chicago my home, as this is where I've lived for the past almost 6 years. I've only lived in my mom's house longer, never worked a job as long as the ones I've had here and this is where I do life. But a large portion of my heart is in Uganda with my two beauties Florence and Specioza. My family worries that I either won't come back or I'll decide to move to Africa for good. And honestly, I'm not completely opposed to that. I'd give anything to see my family on a daily basis, and watch my nephew grow up, but if God is calling me to a different life, I'll hop on the first plane headed to Africa.

It's almost harder being somewhere in the middle here in Chicago. I have to remember that the work God has for me here is just as important as the work I'd be doing in Africa. Souls are souls and the 5 I encounter on a daily basis here are wanted by Him just as much as the ones I'd be meeting in Africa.
I guess, yes, I am excited about Africa, and seeing my girls. But not in a ants-in-my-pants kind of way. More of a content, I-know-that's-where-I'm-supposed-to-be-isn't-it-great-when-our-heart-aligns-with-God's kind of way.
If you are interested in donating for travel costs or towards the purchase of school/art supplies, hygiene items or clothing for the Compassion Sites I'll be visiting, please let me know. Prayers are also appreciated.
Can't wait to return home with you sister!! :) Love you!
ReplyDelete-Ashley