lead me

We are coming into the last four weeks (ish) before we get on a plane and fly to Papua New Guinea to begin the next phase of our lives. This is the phase that nobody really talks about - maybe because they're too busy to pause long enough to - but mostly because it's hard.

This is the time to think about, purchase, and then pack and/or ship all of the things you'll need for the next four years. Josh and I don't have kids, and we don't have a lot of housing stuff to bring, so this is a little bit easier for us, but it's still a challenge. How many pairs of shoes will you go through? How many t-shirts, socks, and underwear? And then there are those specific brands/products that you love, but can only get in the states... How much deodorant or mascara will you use? How about spices? 

Josh and I went through pre-field orientation two summers ago; while there, they talk to you about the many stages you'll go through before and after arriving overseas. Then they introduce the "RAFT" that helps to bridge the gap and make the transition easier. These are: reconciliation, affirmation, farewell, and think destination. I feel like the last month or two before going overseas is firmly entrenched in the "think destination" part. Everything we do now is with the goal of getting us there. Paperwork is being finalized. Ticket prices are being researched. Belongings are purged. Supplies are purchased, weight is always in mind. Life is lived in those percentages I've talked so much about lately. Overseas housing is set up. Arrival plans are established.

On top of all of that is the speaking engagements and presentations and time spent visiting and loving on family and friends. Like I said recently: every day life seems so far and so hard to relate to.  My friends are making plans for summer camps, a new college, weddings, or a new job. I'm making plans for life in a third world country.

It's amazing to look back and see the areas where the Lord has grown me. I used to struggle with horrible anxiety. The mere mention of change would cripple me. And now I want to talk about change, and I actually get excited when we do. That's a huge testament to God's unending grace in my life! It's also a huge burden lifted off of Josh, too. Suddenly he has a helpmeet who can actually help to bear the burden of change and plans and life; he no longer has to bear it alone! I can't tell you how thankful I am for that. 

It feels like there are so many things happening, and so many things that need to happen in the coming weeks; but the good news is that God has more than enough grace to cover it all.