Deeper Things

You have now completed the novel otherwise known as my month in Kolkata. Yet, despite completing the chronicling of events and relationships, I find it so vastly lacking that I can hardly describe it as complete.

I have traveled to a number of nations and met a multitude of people groups . I have had incredible experiences and observed heart-breaking things, but no trip- and I mean NO trip- has never messed with me like this one has. A week after coming back, I still have no idea how to tell this story. I am ruined for things as usual. What that means, I'm still not certain about, but something has changed in my heart and I cannot go back. Truth be told, I don't want to.

My mind reels with memories of the smiles of beautiful children, dying women, and stray dogs. My friends. The hospital. The smells. The emotions. There is so much wrapped into this month that cannot be expressed in words. I wish that you all could have come with me and seen it for yourselves.

I continue to covet your prayers as I seek the Lord's wisdom regarding how to share this experience with people here in Bemidji. I know that I'm in a wonderful position to make India and its people seem just a little bit closer to home and I certainly don't want to waste that opportunity. I must also confess that I really struggle much more with reverse culture shock than I do with adjusting to being abroad, so I desperately need the Lord's help to remember that He has a purpose for me here and that I can live life just as intensely and purposefully here in the US.

Thank you for your support, prayers, and encouragement. The Lord graciously granted me health, protection, companionship, discernment, and opportunities in response to your faithful prayers! Please continue to keep up with me and don't forget to let me know what you're up to and how I can be praying for you!