Sooo, after 2 1/2 years of preparation I am here in Gabon, Africa. What a joy to be where I know God wants me. But along with the joy comes troubles. Thankfully, my joy rests in Him, and not in my circumstances. So what have been some of the troubles; delayed flights, almost missed flights, delayed baggage, a 3 hour wait for my visa at the end of a 36 hour plane trip, and a serious cold. The 2nd day I was here I came down with one of the worse colds I have had in years. I am staying at the home of a couple here at Bongolo, while my house is being painted. The man, Barry, told me he has never gotten colds like he gets here. I think that the cold virus is like bugs and trees here- humongous! But aside from the troubles, they are things that are great. First of all the people. Everyone I have met ie loving, genuine, caring, and sold out for Christ. What a privilege to be among such people. The scenery is breathtaking. So green, I can't describe. Of course, the greenery is attributed to lots of rain. It is hot and humid here, but not as bad as I imagined, and so far I am tolerating the heat just fine. The hospital and school of nursing are centered around sharing Christ with each patient. I am excited to get through my time of orientation and be able to share in this awesome ministry.
I covet your prayers as I start this journey that God has me on.
Prayer needs:
1) improved language skills. I know the basics, but have a long way to go. I have met a nurse here who is willing to tutor and work with me. Awesome!
2) Improved health. To get over this cold and the jet lag and to be able to participate fully in the orientation to hospital and school.
3) Friendships. For deep and abiding friendships that will help replace the absence of family and friends back home.
4) Family. Pray for my family in my absence, especially the grandkids who miss me so much, and I them.
5) Timing of getting settled into my house, and help with the heavy work. All my boxes I shipped last March and the mattress are in my attic waiting to be brought down, and my food order from last summer just arrived in December. Everything needs to be settled and put in it's place. I am very ready to nest and make this place my home. I feel like I have been displaced and living out of suitcases for a long time!
That's all for now, follow me on Facebook for pictures and more updates (for some reason I can't post pictures on this blog any longer). God Bless, Sandie
