So, I'm starting to actually pack up, and it's kinda crazy! I don't know where I'm going to put all this stuff: sleeping bag, sheets, towels, books, clothes, boots, gifts, etc... It's close to impossible to fit it all in one suitcase and keep it under 50 pounds!
It is somewhat surreal to think I'm not going to sleep in my comfy bed, wash my clothes in a washer, blow dry my hair, play with my puppies, or even talk on a cell phone for 4 months! Some of this terrifies me, like being away from a telephone, but I know that I will survive. I wish I could throw in an ipod, my laptop, and a huge supply of my favorite foods, but I can't. But then I think, why couldn't I survive on these circumstances? Two thirds of the world live on these circumstances everyday, and right now, I have no way to know if life is actually better with these luxuries. I am going to Bolivia to get up close and personal with Jesus' heart for the poor. I will be living on a modest allowance to pay for all expenses including the fee to use the internet and write on my blog. :) I believe this may be what I desire to spend money on the most to communicate with home!
What I am really most hesitant about in leaving this week is not leaving my hair dryer behind, laptop, or my warm bed, but the people. I am scared about being away from my family and friends. They are my support group through all of this. I don't think I will ever be as excited to check email as in the days to come. Saying goodbye to so many people from school, church, and home that I love so much was the hardest thing I have EVER had to do. Being away from them in the upcoming months will be even harder, but I am praying for strength to get through this, the vision to see God's purpose for me, and an open spirit to take in all the things the Lord has to teach me.
Official Countdown: 3.5 days
Next time I write, I'll be in Bolivia with my host family, (a woman with 3 little girls!), with first impressions!
About Me
.jpg){kind=small}
- Kelly Eckert
- I am currently in El Alto, Bolivia for 4 months living and serving among the world's poorest people. I am going through Word Made Flesh with a team of 5! Please pray for us and the people we will be serving.
3 comments:
Don't worry about a thing, I'm sure you are going to do fine! Though you are away from us (me, your family and friends) we are still with you in a sense rooting and praying for you!
(Chris again- I posted on the your 2/4 post and I wanted to make sure you saw my message)
Kelly it's so great to have this blog to communicate with you! I know you won't be able to update much (or read the comments much) but I want you to know I'm honored to have such a dedicated, determined, and beautiful cousin! :) You are truly doing the Lord's work, and it's great that you are not worried about finishing school on time or what anyone else thinks about your Mission.
You know you can always get your credits for school and graduate in due time. You and I know you are in the middle of a much bigger task, and I think you and your "Team" will touch the lives of many people that may otherwise have no chance or would have no way of knowing there is a 'better way' than the lives they are leading. My prayers are with you, Autumn, Clark, Laura, and Bryan. You guys truly ROCK!
Ok- enough of the mushy stuff. :) So what's it like living without all the noise and technology? I would think it's very strange at first but I'm sure I would love it! (Except not being able to get online every day- kind of an internet addict!) How about the food? I bet you end up finding some things that are wonderful (Fresh and exotic fruits) and some things that may be disgusting. (I'm sure the Bolivians eat bugs for the protein. Yummy!)
Well I've got to get to work now, but next time you update I'll know! I'll be checking this site at least 3x a week. (Gotta make sure my cuz is healthy and doing well!)
God Bless,
Chris Thomas (A.K.A. "Meatwad")
Post a Comment