Yesterday I began what has seemed to be an impossible task… packing. In reality, I began several weeks ago. I sorted through clothing, picking out anything that was stained or that I didn’t like. I separated a bag to give away to a thrift store. As I separated I thought, “I didn’t realize I had so many clothes…” But the story was only just beginning.
As I began to fit everything into my suitcase, I was a little concerned about the weight. As I looked around and saw all that was left to pack, I wasn’t at all encouraged! I separated more clothing, getting rid of more weight.
Tonight hasn’t been any less challenging. As I look around at a year and a half’s worth of stuff, deciding what to leave behind is a challenge. (My suitcase limit is 50 lbs… and the size and sturdiness of the suitcaise takes up a fair amount of precious weight space!). Part of me thinks, “Why can’t I just leave it all?” Then I think, “What would I wear?” 🙂 The practical side somehow overcomes the “extreme” side.
What I am grateful for, though, is that I unpacked.
After my second trip to Colombia, I wrote a blog I simply entitled, “Unpacking.” I talked about how most short-term experiences don’t allow for much unpacking – not necessarily of a physical suitcase, but of a mental one. Most short-termers don’t gain the experience of facing what life on the field is really like. I’m grateful that my two short-term visits to Colombia gave me that experience and prepared me for this past season.
I have been fully unpacked. I have lived here, and it has been wonderful. It’s also been challenging. I have come to love Colombia and the Colombian people.
Tomorrow as I head to Bogota, my experience in Colombia comes to a close – for now. I will unpack in Grand Forks for a little while, and then trust that the Lord will continue to show me the next steps!
Thanks to all those who have been reading my blogs — even these late-nighters! Tomorrow is the last day of my 40-day blogging challenge. I’ll be traveling all day, but I hope I can write!