This will probably be my last post before I am back in the USA! Our graduation ceremony was last night! We officially completed our Discipleship Training School on Friday morning, and I lift off Australian ground Saturday night.
These past couple of weeks have been pure insanity- my team returned from Papua and we're all in the throes of debrief and saying goodbye. It's been hard for me- hearing the stories, seeing friends I've been apart from for 6 weeks... Even small things, like having to stay back from late night food outings because my wheelchair would be too much of a hassle. That's all alright, though- the Lord has kept my spirits sheltered under His wings and so I cling to the joy of the morning that I know is coming! Dawn will soon break on my leg situation- my cast should be off in the next week (if I can't get out of it here, the U.S. will take care of me!) and then, after lots of physical therapy, I should soon be walking!
Even through all the hardship I've experienced here, my heart is heavy as I contemplate leaving. The relationships I've built here truly will last a lifetime- it will be hard to say goodbye, but I will see them again. The memories are plentiful and priceless.
I suppose I should list just a few of my final impressions of this country as I head off. First, though, I should say- there's not a doubt in my mind that I'll be back here soon.
I've become used to the driving on the left side of the road. I look the right way at the right time and have grown used to the driver being on the right side of the car. My family and friends will have to watch me my first few months back in the States when I cross the street.
Raw coconut is delectable.
Winter in Australia is very sneaky: the fact that the temp goes down does NOT mean someone who is as fair skinned as me can be safe in the sun. I was just burnt to a crisp a week and a half ago.
Well, that's all for now- I'm going to be in a whirlwind once I get home, conquering jet lag (its 10x worse going to the Northern Hemisphere than the Southern), getting my leg working again, preparing for what's next in my life. I hope to see all of you soon- I would love to meet with as many of you one-on-one as I can! My love language is quality time, so if you would like to see me, don't hesitate to send me an email and get a hold of me!
Random fact of the post:
A little while ago, I was rolling around the city in the evening, getting some fresh air. My friend and I decided to stop and sit on a patch of grass and shortly noticed we weren't the only ones there- a possum (not an opossum- they're different!) came right up to us and started nibbling my toes. I reached out and pet it- they're so soft. I've had multiple interactions with possums whilst living in this country- I've not regretted a single one.
Bless you all, and I can't thank you enough for all of your support.
Anna
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