On YoUr MaRk, GeT sEt...

Wait, wait, wait!! Don't say go yet. Please DO NOT say go. I am not ready.

       I will be leaving for India in five days and I can't help but worry about some very important things--do I have enough Red Vines and Hot Tamale candy to last for 10 weeks! On a serious note, although my mind is racing through various checklists, wondering whether or not I have completed every listed task regarding my apartment, school, packing, health, hair, transportation, mail, bills, etc., I can't deny this feeling of knowing that everything is going to be just fine. I am excited, yet nervous; anxious, yet looking forward to the time to be away from it all. It will not only be a change in scenery, but a change in family life as well, as this will be the first time in six years where my daughter will be away from me for an extended period of time. It's funny how ideas and opportunities glitter in the distance, but once you realize that these same ideas and opportunities are now knocking at your front door, you begin to question whether or not you should open it. Nonetheless, I am opening the door and continuing to step along the path God has specially constructed for me. I know that it will include difficult times and lonely moments, but I know more importantly that both I and my daughter will be taken care of. In spite of the chaos, the unknown, and unfamiliar territory, I have peace..."And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus" (Phil. 4:7).

       Going into India, I desire to be stretched--I know, I know, be careful what you ask for, but I want to return to the U.S. stronger in my faith and who I am as a woman. Gold is only made pure until after it has been through the fire...so let's watch and experience together what the summer, what my fire, will reveal. Until next week...