I have been home for almost a month from Africa now. So much of who I am already feels that I have allowed myself to get back to the "American" way of life. Which frustrates me. But so much of me has completely seen the lifestyle that I know and admit like has changed. To put Africa in one word, I think I would go with passionate. I use that word, because of the people, the places and how God truly is working through the nationals and other leaders of the countries I got to visit. As I sit here and continue to reflect on everything, so much of me is still in Africa, which is good, because I believe someday I will be back there doing more work. I say that with confidence knowing God has some really cool things planned for me and everyone around me. Not that Africa is for everyone, but I know that I can find a place for anyone to serve, whether in a church, clinic, or business. God is doing great things all around the world.

One of the best things about the trip was that God was taken out of the box of America that I put him in. Seeing what is going on around the world was the best thing for me to see and understand.

This whole process of reflection of this summer has been encouraging, tough, exciting, and exhausting. I have had some great days reliving things and some extremely tough days where I want nothing more than to be there again. I hope those that have heard me share see and hear the excitement that I am feeling on the inside.

I don't want to lose this passion and pray that I never do. I ask those that read this continue to pray that God continues to direct me back to Africa someday. I want to take that step and rely on God to get me back to the community and life I have fallen in love with. Until then I will continue to serve around home and just started the second year of Seminary in Lincoln.

Always wanting to be In His Grip!!!!!