“Travel is more than seeing sights; it is a change that goes on, deep and permanent, in the ideas of living.” — Miriam Beard.
Finally, the day is almost here! The African adventure is about to begin. I have been thinking and talking about it for months; praying for it and for all that we will encounter while there. During all the preparatory tasks of this past week, I have been wondering about the surprises that we will inevitably experience. Expectations are inevitable, and no doubt I have some that I am not even aware of, but I have no doubt that whatever mine may be, they will be exceeded- and I can’t wait to learn how.
I have been reminded over and over again the past few months that Africa is not a country, it is a continent- and a pretty big one at that! We will learn first hand about some of the political, social, and spiritual struggles of the region. I am going to Kenya and Tanzania (East Africa), and then on to Thailand (Southeast Asia). Over the next month, I will spend more than 100 hours “en route”- on buses, planes, taxis, and airports. It boggles my mind because that is almost 3 weeks of work for me. (I work 36 hours a week.). I intend to make that part of the journey my time to work: to reflect, to pray, and to study God’s word and Psychiatric Nurse Practioner stuff – because I still have that certification exam waiting for me as soon as I get back.
So tomorrow, I leave the Upper Valley NH and head to Boston, then on to Nairobi via Amsterdam. We will be in Nairobi for 4-5 days before we travel to Tanzania for 4 days. At the end of our time, I will take a trip to Tenwek to visit the hospital there and meet some of the missionaries and national leaders. And then it is onto Chiang Mai, Thailand to visit my sister and brother-in-law.
I invite you to join me on the journey- I will do my best to post pictures and share what the days and nights have been like. (I will keep them short.) So many of you have been excited with me for this trip, and will be joining me in praying for all the encounters we will have. I am humbled and grateful for your support and encouragement.
I’ll close with this Psalm for travelers.
https://www.umc.org/en/content/psalm-121-a-prayer-for-travelers
6 responses to “The anticipation of travel”
What an amazing opportunity for you. Iām excited and honored to be following along. God bless š
Thanks Beth, I appreciate you! Can’t wait to catch up when I get back!
I am so excited for you. On the way to CCC this morning I went by your home and just started praying for you, your trip, and all that you will encounter along the way. I am so excited for you and know your heart goes in service for Him.
Take care, Kathie Powers
Thanks Kathie, I appreciate your thoughts and prayers. So far it has been an incredible experience.
Marsha, hope all travel goes smoothly, praying for a fruitful time!
June, thanks for your prayers. It has been incredible so far and we have only just begun! Looking forward to catching up when I get home.