The Upside Down Big Dipper
The first time I saw Africa was through a small airplane window. All I saw was the deepest darkest I've ever seen sparsely interrupted by small yellow orbs of light. I had been traveling by myself for 16hrs across the globe, but nothing scared me more than getting off that plane. On the way the plane stopped to pick up new passengers and to refuel. The new passengers I quickly learned were refugees from the Congo headed to the states. I sat next to a man with his 2yr- old son and wife. They had never been on a plane and the TV on each seat blew their minds. It was interesting to try to explain the plane with minimal English. As I left the plane and said my good byes to this family I realized this family was leaving everything they knew forever. They are the definition of courage as they seek a better life for their son. I wish them the best and keep them in my prayers. I have met wonderful people and my new friend Haley (also working with childvoice). Haley's cousin, Tarah and her husband Wayne, opened up their home for my first day, and gave me a place to sleep. I had a hotel where I would have slept by myself for my first time in Africa, but they brought me into their home. I thank God for them, they are wonderful people that have truly blessed my life. I have been really stressed about losing my things, getting sick, and losing contact with my family. But so far all my luggage made it back to me, I made all my flights, I have been talking with my family, and I have met many amazing people. I have been praying really hard this entire trip because I am by myself in a foreign place and I can only rely on God. Today when we were visiting the international School I saw this written on the board: Joshua 1:9 have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go. Also side note the big dipper is upside down in this hemisphere of the world. Even the stars a completely different here.