Anyone who knows me can tell you that I'm always rushing from one commitment to the next. I feel the most comfortable when I'm busy, checking off various tasks from my lists of things to do and asking, "What's next?" Learn another language. Check. Travel to a foreign country by myself. Check. Graduate with honors. Check. Get into medical schools. Check. Make furniture for my new apartment. Check.
But this summer, I am again reminded of the joy of reflection. Making a coffee table and end tables out of reclaimed wood reminded me of friendships formed in Guatemala and the lessons God taught me during those two months. Painting a waterfall from Pico Bonito allowed me to reminisce about that gorgeous hike in Honduras, more friendships, and the moments that convinced me to apply for medical school.
In about 24 hours, I head to Honduras again. This time just for a week, but Lord-willing I'll be back again for longer periods of time. I'll be going with seven other people from Ripon, one of which is my brother. For years, I've been begging to go on a mission trip with at least one family member, so I'm ecstatic to be going with Vance. We'll be working with Providence World Ministries in Siguatepeque, Honduras. I first went there in 2009 with a larger group from church, and though we were only there a few days because of the coup going on, God used it greatly in my life. I'm excited to go back and be a part of the work God is doing in the school, clinic and orphan ministry! We covet your prayers for this week. I pray that God will be glorified in all things--may we boldly proclaim the Gospel, joyfully serve, eagerly learn, and delight in new or strengthened relationships.
In one month--August 11--I start seeing patients at Loma Linda as part of my first year in medical school. In such a competitive field, it is a great blessing to be accepted right out of undergrad, and after a lot of prayer and thought, I chose to attend this school. Thank you to everyone who has played a role in getting me here!! It is a huge honor, and as God uses this training to bring me into contact with people who need to hear about the healing He offers, I pray that He will continue to guide my steps, give me the strength, knowledge and words needed, and remind me that reflection is just as important as what's next.
