As our time in India flew by, seasons shifted in the USA. (At least in Montana. Las Vegas just cooled off enough to allow for a morning walk as late as 7:30 AM.) Shades of impending autumn are everywhere: aerial views of snow dust the shady side of mountain tops, the Benson's field of corn stands tall and ready for harvest, golden leaves swirl in the wake of passing cars - and the heated car seat was dandy during my Friday morning drive to work (which, by the way, is not at ALL like the driving in India!).
During my first day back to work, my thoughts often pinged back to India at varied contrasts (still forgetting I can safely drink water that comes from the tap) and unrealities of being back home (what day is it again?). Wondering where Sarah's thoughts were drifting on the heels of her first missions journey, I texted a few queries - sort of a mini post-trip interview:
Cyndy: So, Sarah...
Sarah: So, Cyndy...
C: Now that you're home, any reflective thoughts on last couple weeks in India? About people you met? Ministry participated in? Stretching?
S: Just how awesome it was, how much I got to experience. I've been thinking about how the entire trip was out of my comfort zone - going to places and eating foods that are completely different than what I am used to. And praying for people is not something I do on a regular basis at church so that’s different for me. The whole thing was stretching me and I loved every part of it even though it’s not exactly comfortable. The people really helped me feel comfortable
C: Sweet. So, feeling all that love-iness, how will your experiences on this trip affect or influence your future ministry/outreach interactions, including where you currently volunteer with children and your church's worship team?
S: I think time will really tell. I can’t really tell how the experiences will affect me but my best guess is more openness to what God has for me and what He wants me to do for the people around me.
C: Definitely a worthwhile reason for taking this trip! My key personal takeaway was along the same lines - to step up and step in to the next things Jesus has been nudging me toward.
S: I think we can call that a wrap -
C: And y’all come back now! The journey continues....and we'll leave you today with a few street views from our travels.
Siliguri: Morning walk to school |
Siliguri: Out for a morning stroll |
Siliguri: Hard work hauling bricks |
Siliguri: Historic church, with present day home in background |
Kolkata taxi at the airport |
Siliguri: Residential street at Community Development Centre A |