Some Thoughts Before the Journey

Some of my friends came together last night to give me a special send off before leaving. It was so nice. I really appreciate it.

Today is my last day before we leave. I have mixed feelings. I have been mentally, physically and spiritually preparing myself, yet I still feel unprepared and am not sure what to expect. I have been "brainwashed" by tv and the western ways of thinking that my expectation is to expect the worst. Mentally I'm prepared for no water, no electricity, no safe edible food, disease, poverty, crime, language and culture barriers. Can I really be of service if I am expecting the worst?

Physically my voice is beginning to regain its strength. I actually forced myself to eat several cloves of raw garlic late last night, since I was told this was the only thing that would knock this particular strain of ailment. All today I was dosing on fresh pineapple juice, vitamins and other liquids. Will I be physically able to be of adequate service?

Spiritually, I am open to God's leading and ready to do His bidding. Yet I still question God and the things I don't understand and often do "my own thing" when I feel like it. How can I share when I myself don't have all the answers and am not perfect?

The only I have come up with is-- sharing and being of service is giving all you have, no matter what it is. I have time and resourse and desire, so I am giving that. I also have questions and fears and challenges, so I'm giving that too. Along with my hopes to make a difference, my willingness to take a chance and my trust in God to make sure it all comes out for His glory. ....And that's why I'm going. I'm giving my ALL to be of service to others.