Well, I'm back in the States.
Somehow 39 days flew by and my time in Bolivia feels like a far away dream. I'm back in the arms of my family and it's almost as if I was never in the beautiful mountain filled country. What a weird feeling. But, when I stop and think about the last month, I realize that I saw and experienced things that will stay with me forever. Bolivia was one of the hardest things I did and one of the best experiences I had. I say it was difficult because I was really pushed out of my comfort zone. Not necessarily physically, but mentally. I got to experience a different culture, interact with new people, try a variety of foods, and grow in my trust of God. As I sat in the airport a couple days ago, I was filled with guilt. Guilt that I could escape the poverty that I saw. Knowing, that in a few hours, I would be home, back in my room that is almost as big as the houses of some of the people I visited. But, at the same time I felt motivated. I felt ready to go into the new school year that is quickly approaching. I felt a new security that what I am pursuing in school is what I really want to do. My future looks bright and the journey doesn't look too difficult (maybe I am being naive...). I know that the skills I am learning will allow me to help others and will open doors for me to share the love of God. As I've mentioned before in some of my older posts, I really struggled with the idea of going back to a life of comfort, a life that seems so easy... But, I have been mulling over this passage lately: "...I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength." ~Philippians 4:11-13 Paul talks about being content in every situation. Whether he is in abundance or is in need. That really struck me. It doesn't matter where I am, where I sleep at night, whether I have extra clothes or only one pair of pants. What matters is my heart and my attitude. What matters is being thankful for what I have in every situation. It was time for me to leave Bolivia and start preparing for Graduate school. I've traded days full of serving, for days spent in anatomy books. I've traded Bolivian empanadas and crackers, for American(college student diet) oatmeal and rice. I've traded throwing toilet paper in trash cans, for American toilets that have the luxury of being able to flush toilet paper. But, in every situation I can have joy and know that I am right where I need to be. So yes, I am back from Bolivia and I am extremely grateful for the experiences I've had. I'm also extremely grateful to be back in the States and I look forward to the challenges and joys this school year will bring. Thank you for joining me on this adventure and for your continuous love and support! P.S. Just because I am back does not mean I won't keep writing blog posts. Every once in a while I will write down my current thoughts and activities here...so be sure to check back often :)
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