Wow. Wow. Wow. We're just back from CCO (Cross-Cultural Orientation) in Colorado Springs and I just want to get on the trampoline outside and spring myself right over to Dar. I feel like I could do it, but we still need a little time to finish raising support (we're at the 2/3 mark at the moment, but hopefully that rises quickly!) and deal with the diminishing stacks of stuff in our living area.
Len and I were thanking God yesterday for the gift of having to liquidate our assets. While we were in Colorado, the kids stayed with some dear friends in Minnesota who live very simply, on less than many pay in taxes each year, but they do it beautifully. Their home radiates peace, love, joy and when you go in you want to stay. They have learned discipline and patience through their lifestyle. And we want that. It isn't something you can buy from Pottery Barn. Living simply takes time and practice and patience; we have a long way to go. But simplifying our belongings is a start. And we wouldn't have de-stuffed our life if not for this call. So we are thankful. This is liberating stuff!
CCO was also a reminder of the rock stars of ministry we have the privilege to work beside in Africa. The Stantons, from the UK, met while spending a summer educating Africans about HIV/AIDS while traveling around living in tents. They are dynamic, hilarious, and deep. The dynamic Fuentes duo features Gustavo from Guatemala and Beatriz from Brazil; they have enjoyed life in the US for years but what they are really passionate about are the people of Mozambique. Beatriz is a masterful artist whose love of people makes her absolutely glow. They are wise and energized to get back to Mozambique after being here for training!
Of course, the Larmeys, who have pioneered YL in various African nations, are amazing and we are eager to join them in Dar. One of their great victories in Africa has been putting together a Senior African Leadership Team, men and women who love people, love their respective countries, and love Africa. The African staff and volunteers are some of the most well read, wise and warm people I have ever met or heard of. We have so much to learn from them, and I pray we are able to assist them adequately.
More stories to come soon; just wanted to update a little about our comings and goings recently, and thank everyone for support of every kind that has been offered this last month! :)
