So, I have been horrible about keeping up with my blog (Ellen Enger reminds me of that every time I see her). However, with me leaving tomorrow for Ethiopia, I will be better about keeping you all updated.
Most of you all know basically what I am doing, but I will put it in writing so it is more official. While in Lafayette, Louisiana things fell into place with Catholic Medical Mission Board (CMMB). My spiritual director in Atlanta, Deacon Scott, put me in touch with Sr. Elaine who runs St. Luke Catholic Hospital in Wolisso, Ethiopia. After many e-mails with her, I decided to volunteer at this hospital and to have CMMB sponsor me. It has been quite a long process, but I could not have planned it better myself. The Lord has been so good to me despite my impatience at times.
As far as I know now, I will be working on one of the floors at the hospital. I will also be teaching at the nursing school connected to the hospital.
Although this is a bit intimidating for me, I know that the Lord will use me in ways I haven't even imagined. As Sarah at Family Missions Company says, "God doesn't call the equipped, He equips the called". I pray unceasingly for that, especially as I step out into a lot of unknowns.
Leaving Louisiana was heartbreaking and now my heart breaks each time I have to say goodbye to a family member or friend here. Yes, I am only leaving for a year, but I feel this is going to be a catalyst for a lot of other changes too. All of life's major choices (getting married, having a child, becoming a religious, moving, quitting a job, leaving to pursue a dream, etc.) come with sacrifices, but they are good, especially when you are trusting the Lord with it all.
FINALLY I won't just be talking about wanting to be a missionary in Africa, I'm actually doing it! Thank you to everyone who has been so supportive through this. You all have been so encouraging and that really means a lot. I wouldn't be able to do this without your love and support.
Please keep in touch! All my information is on this website. Homesickness in inevitable, so please keep me updated on your lives. I love and will miss you all!
Don't just talk about your dreams, live them.
