three days Out

So, I took the time and made the effort to start a blog in hopes that I would write and inspire others.  Three months of not writing are definitely not inspirational.  So now, this moment, things must change.      I am three days away from departure to my beloved Africa where I will spend time with three children that I have the honor of sponsoring.  Two live in Uganda and my third lives in Zimbabwe.  I have been to Africa several times and each has captivated my heart.  However, there is something sacred, more sacred than normal, about this trip.  Perhaps it is because I am visiting MY kids.  I know, I have never given birth, but God has filled my life with kids.  I served as a youth pastor for years and to this day, I feel like they are mine.  I have taught kids in public school now for fifteen years and again, they are mine.  but these three African beauties are something else.  Unexpected treasures!

I provide finances to allow these children to go to school and have medicines they need or food or clean water.  I send letters and packages and dance with joy when I open my mailbox to find an international envelope with the words, "Uganda" or "Zimbabwe," printed on it.  About a year and a half ago, I received a long letter from my oldest child.  Often these letters are quite formal and quaint at best.  However, this particular letter gripped my heart. He spent two pages describing his schooling, his family and his dream to become a doctor and more than once he mentioned "I love you."  He signed it, "Your spiritual son. . ."

Wow.  I wept and thanked God for this child of mine.  I called my mom, my dearest friend, and told her of the letter.  Her reply, "You have to go visit."  Thus began the plan to travel to Africa.  Now, after many hours of planing and writing emails and contacting numerous resources, I am three days away from departure.  I have much to share in these next seventy two hours and I cannot imagine what stories I will obtain during my twenty five days in Africa.  Stay posted.