So as of today I have about 5 months before I leave for Benin Africa. If you are looking at Africa, Benin is located right in the crook of Africa on the western side. This is the side that currently has no risks of any pirates joining the ship. But they are still looking for more volunteers so who knows. Pray about it! Hehe!
Anyway today I flew back from my first week of training in Garden Valley Texas. I wont lie I was pretty excited about going down to nice warm sunny Texas after having to shovel our 4 car driveway multiple times in the week prior due to 20+ inches of snowfall. So I packed my t-shirts, bathing suit, and sunscreen (SPF 8 because of the harsh sun) and flew over for my introduction to Mercy Ships training week.
When I arrived in Texas the flight attendant said it that it was a nice 52 degrees out. Not bad saying that when I left Boston it was 20 degrees with already 4 inches of snowfall and more on its way. Soon after I joyfully jumped in the passenger seat of my ride and was on my way.
I was pretty nervous as we drove along the bumpy road because of all the unknowns that lay ahead. I said a quick prayer and asked God to calm my anxious heart and give me courage, strength and wisdom throughout the upcoming week. We pulled up to the Mercy Ships training campus and then over to the ladies dorms. As I stepped out of the vehicle I was surprised with the sudden gust of frigid air. As I walked up to the dorm I started to regret leaving my jacket, gloves, and hat in my Mom's car. This was definitely not the last time I had these thoughts as the rest of the week we all shivered in our ill prepared clothes.
I wont lie it has been awhile since I've sat in a classroom for more than 4 hours in a row. I was now supposed to sit in a classroom for 8 hours a day for 5 days. But I did it! As I sat through these classes I felt different waves of emotion. I was excited for the future but nervous with the unknown. I was joyful in finally starting my mission but overwhelmed by what needed to be done. As I prayed about all of this things God definitely comforted me through his Word and through all the different friends I had met throughout the week. The friendships I made in only a weeks time I am sure will last a lifetime.
So after almost 4 months since I made the decision to serve with Mercy Ships this week definitely gave me the jump start I needed to get my battery fully charged for the journey that lay ahead. I am excited to see how God will use me on the ship. Please be praying for the group of friends I made over this past week. Also be praying for those who already are serving over in Africa.
