On Thursday I woke up with a sore throat that quickly worsened. Turned out it was strep throat. I was NOT anticipating my last two days at the orphanage (Friday and Saturday) to be thrown off because I was sick, but we don't get to pick when we get these things. Thankfully I started antibiotics on Friday and by today am feeling MUCH more like myself.
This morning I took a bit of time to go to the orphanage. I needed to say goodbye. Needed to hold each of these children one last time. Give them hugs, kisses, and remind them that I love them so very much, and yet Jesus loves them even more. It was a sweet time. I anticipated an emotional farewell, but instead their smiles were contagious and warmed my heart as they always do. Such young lives, but such a great impact.
To be fully in the moment this morning was a blessing. To hold these gifts from God, to thank Him for who they are and who they will become, and to look into the hearts of the children who have taught me the true meaning of love brought such a deep blessing into my day.
I cannot lie. As I sit here with my thoughts, it is slowly hitting me that that was indeed goodbye. That my time with these children is over, and I will likely never see them again on this side of heaven. But it was worth it! A thousand times worth it. Because the hurt that I am feeling now is nothing compared to the joy that their little lives filled my heart with. I'm not afraid to grieve... I'm more afraid of what would happen to these precious children if nobody took the time to love them. I saw God actively at work in them--providing homes, restoring life, granting joy... I leave them sad, but thankful that they are, always have been, and always will be in the loving arms of the Most High!
Tomorrow morning (Monday) I head up to Addis Ababa. From there, I will fly out VERY late on Wednesday night. Please be in prayer for safe travels during all phases of my return home! And as always, I will do my best to keep you updated.
