I have created this blog in an attempt to keep family and friends updated on my adventure in Uganda. My intention is to update the blog regularly and post pictures. I promise to try my best to hold up to that, but I'm not promising anything.
So tomorrow the adventure begins to unfold. I am so anxious/excited/nervous to leave and to start experiencing life outside of the U.S. This will be my first time seriously outside of the country (I don't count Canada and tourist Caribbean) for an extended period of time. I struggled with packing in what to bring especially in medicine and miscellaneous items, but I must say I am so proud that I was able to put everything into one suitcase and I packed two days before leaving!
So why Uganda? That seems to be the hot question. I have only really provided brief answers to family and friends but I want to paint a bigger picture for everyone. This past summer I worked for Group Workcamps Foundation (a Christian non-profit that provides short-term mission camps around the country). Towards the end of July and into August I kept hearing a lot about Africa: my co-worker was headed to Africa for 6 months, my supervisor was going to Africa, friends felt called to Africa, etc. Hearing everyone talk about Africa made me think. I have never really had a profound interest in going to Africa but I got the sense that I would be going to Africa soon. I always knew I wanted to study abroad so when I got to Messiah I started looking into different programs. I really wanted to go to Greece but the time frame didn't work out too well and academically it wasn't the best fit. I also looked at a program in England but it would have cost a pretty penny. Then, Uganda came to the table and it fit perfectly. First, I could afford it. Second, I could take the most classes towards my degree. Third, there is a service component in which I could volunteer at orphanages or medical clinics. Fourth, the program is Christian-centered. I prayed and sought counsel from friends and decided to apply. Since then, God has really put a burden for Africa and especially its children on my heart. He has provided me with the financial needs and the spiritual awareness that I will need in Uganda. God has brought me to Uganda and I am anxiously looking forward to the journey God has set into motion ahead of me. People ask me what am I most looking forward to and I tell them I most looking forward to meeting God in foreign place and in foreign faces. Yes, God is love and God is exciting!
I'll blog soon.
Love,
Kristen
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Travel Safely! Pray hard! Love Recklessly! Eat everything!
ReplyDeleteToday as I was on our floor I kept thinking I was going to run into in the bathroom and I realized, well that's not true. But more than that, I l realized I miss you (that's a given :-)). You're in my thoughts and prayers! "We also pray that you will be strengthened with all his glorious power so you will have all the endurance and patience you need. May you be filled with joy, always thanking the Father." Colossians 1:11-12
ReplyDeleteLove,
Cass