Like the afternoon tropical thunder storms, it feels like everyday throws something new our way. We continue the process of regrouping, picking ourselves up and waiting for the sun to come out again.
This week our list of ailments is growing:
mosquito attacks
diarrhea for a Christine
. . .then Annette
. . .then Josiah
. . .then Annette
runny nose, fever, and asthma for Josiah
unidentifiable crankiness for Annette
unidentified skins sores for Jason and Christine
a night of vomiting for Christine
three nights in a row of little- no sleep
The living conditions are more third- world then we had anticipated, probably because we are living with all locals (there are no foreign missionaries here). We are eating entirely locally grown and prepared food which is causing a stir in our tummies.
Last night as I was up vomiting (sorry if this is TMI) I realized how very little I have suffered. I began to start another list in my head of things I have not endured:
my father did not rape me
my mother never beat me
my parents didn’t abandon me
I don’t come from a history of alcoholism, mental illness and abuse
The beautiful, precious children here have suffered these things. If they can get back up in God’s strength, so can we. Thank you Jesus for transforming lives, restoring hope and helping us to get back up again.
ohhh! We will be praying for your health! Keep healthy!
ReplyDeleteIf you get up one more time than you fall you will make it through...chinese proverb.
ReplyDeleteYou are in our prayers...
Great perspective! I just finished reading Pollyanna and this reminds me of that "Glad Game" that she taught everyone to play. Don't sell yourself short though on you all feeling awful...it is not abuse or neglect, but it is still real and serious and new and challenging. Illness is something to seriously watch out for, especially in a new place. Prayers for you all!
ReplyDeleteChristine, also wanted to share that I got very sick while visiting Mexico-turns out it wasn't the food, it was the water that we were using to shower and brush our teeth with. Guess what they told us to do about it (and what actually worked)? A shot of Tequila each night. The alcohol killed the bacteria from the water and food that was trying to kill us. Of course, this would not work for the little ones. Lots of prayers for you all!
ReplyDeleteLove this perspective. I am so amazed by you and Jason's faith and your desire to go to the world. Love you all and praying for you!
ReplyDeleteThank you for the update. Your faith is amazing and I trust the Lord would take you through all difficulties and bless you on what you are now doing. I will be praying for you.
ReplyDeleteMozart
Hmmm...hang in cousin, I'm VERY excited to hear more about what lessons God teaches you during this time, and will be learning/praying with you from over here. Love you guys!
ReplyDeleteI'm praying for you all. Hang in there, more prayers are coming...
ReplyDelete