Dear Bolivia,
You’ve been much different than I anticipated. For starters, because of miscommunications and several closed doors we were late to our ministry sites – leaving only a little over two weeks for actual ministry. You also sit much higher than any place we’ve ever been, making half of my squad either pass out or ride face down in a plastic bag for 48 hours. (Gotta love long bus rides!)
Secondly, you’ve been extremely cold. I mean, yeah, I miss my Nebraska winters but shoot you’re cold, Bolivia! I’ve never worn so many layers to bed before: long socks, leggings, shorts, a t-shirt, two long sleeves, a sweater and a stocking hat. My skin has barely seen the sun this month and, because of this, I like a ghost in most pictures.
One of the families from the church bought my team, my squad leaders and I Bolivian stocking hats to try and keep us warm.
You’ve also reminded me of a simple statement my professors taught me while studying social work: “Blessed are the flexible.” I can’t remember a day here where things have gone according to schedule. Broken-down buses, altitude sickness and miscommunications can take the blame for some of this. An “introduction” at the local school turns into a two-hour session of games and teaching. A 9:00 AM church service is sporadically changed to 10:00 and, after spending all night preparing my message, only three people showed up. Changed plans seem to be the norm these days.
“Train Cemetery” in Uyuni, Bolivia. A very popular attraction for tourists.
You do have some pretty cool things to offer. I mean, I ate llama for the first time, visited a mummy cave, traveled to the Salt Flats and climbed all over gnarly broken-down trains. I met some incredible people, played volleyball in the park and discovered the greatest slide I’ve been down since my carnival going days.
The famous Uyuni Slide.
During our time together you’ve also helped me realize a few things:
- I really, really miss my friends – especially my Royal Family Kids Camp people. I’m not going to publically admit how many times I’ve gotten emotional about missing home, missing camp and missing my friends this month.
- I have no idea what true contentment is – currently working on this. In the past I’ve found contentment in my surroundings, my behavior and my own abilities. Bob Hamp is currently rocking my world in his “Foundations of Freedom” series.
- Adoration is very different than worship. This month I was asked to preach on adoration and I discovered much about a topic I had not previously cared to study. If you’ve got a second, read the story in Matthew 26:6 and Luke 10:38 for an example of biblical adoration.
- Scripture memorization is a real thing. I continue to be blown away by the truths and promises of the Word. Memory verse(s) for this week: 1 Peter 4:8-11.
- Walking club is fun. Shout-out to my teammates for waking me up at 7:00 AM every day.
As much as I’ve loved hanging out with you, I’m afraid I can’t stay. Bulgaria has called and it’s time for me to go. I can’t promise I’ll come back but I’m forever grateful for the memories I’ve made here.
Keep it real, Boliv.
Team Huzzah!
(Carolyn, Brittany, Aubrey, Lucie, Me, Jessica)
