01/10/12
I'm wondering why I'm not freaking out about this trip. It doesnt seem like such a big deal, but I think it's because it hasn't hit me yet. I haven't grasped the reality of it yet."
01/21/12
I am in awe. dumbfounded.
I have been introduced to a new way of life here in the Dominican Republic. A culture perpendicular to that of the States. Time has come to a screeching halt and I've been forced to forget my easy life and learn how to live a simple one.
I'm learning that each day presents blessings throughout it. I'm so blessed to be a part of a team that loves God. I'm so blessed to be a part of a team that will encourage me when I need it, but also let me know when there is something bothering them that could be changed about myself. I'm so blessed to be a part of a team that is completely comfortable with each other(memories have been made and stories to be told that will forever yield a laugh). I'm so blessed to be a part of a team that, instead of withdrawing when times get tough, get stronger and closer with each other.
How do I adequately explain how blessed I am? How do I share the many wonders that God has presented in just the week that I've been in the DR? It is impossible to sufficiently describe how I feel and what I see everyday and who I am becoming.
God is a beautiful god. God is amazing and wonderful and inexplicable. An hour and a half hike into the heart of the mountains opened my eyes to a beauty I've never seen. The mountains tower high above me. The shallow and narrow river I crossed 17 times each way tugged at my feet-a wonder in itself. The jungle I trekked through. The natural hot springs resting along the river. Yes God-You are a beautiful god.
I'm getting used to the stares of the Dominicans. The laughs from the children when the Americano says hello to them. He, in his bright clothes and orange bandana. It is odd to see the poverty plague the DR, but the smiles light up the faces when Team Monarch walks by. We're constantly being offered coffee. When we visit a home, chairs appear out of nowhere and from every direction. It is guaranteed that the poorest home will produce at least 8 chairs and it has become quite funny to know that when I attempt to sit on the ground to let the homeowner sit in a chair, it is unacceptable. No matter the age, the homeowner will give up his/her chair. Such hospitality is rare in the States.
Thank you, God. Thank you for blessing me with a family. Thank you for blessing me by letting me serve these people. Thank you for blessing me with simplicity. Thank you for who I am and where I am.
To my supporters and those who read this, a new phrase I picked up: Dios Les Bendiga! God bless you 🙂 I'm learning Spanish.
