Wandering: One Month

It is really incredible to think that I have already been here for a whole month. The time has really flown by! Time is a funny thing here, the days are very long and full of activities so it feels like I have been here much longer. But at the same time, there are so many things I still haven't gotten a chance to do, things the teams do in a week but because of various meetings and other commitments I haven't. For example, I still have not gone on rounds with the doctor or on a village outreach. I have wanted to do this from the start but it is hard to carve out time. But I am working on it! It is also very easy to get wrapped up in the day-to-day meetings and immediate issues and neglect the long-term big picture. It is all a huge learning experience.

I have definitely been tired but very satisfied with my job and the work it allows me to do. I have to keep reminding myself I have a whole year and I need to be patient if it takes a little longer to get things done.

Anyways, some highlights from my month here:

- Getting to know the new children at the CRC and reconnect with the kids I knew before. There is never enough time to spend with them, but I am definitely enjoying the moments I get!

- Being around for various events like the Day of the African Child. Celebrations here are simple but a whole lot of fun for everyone.

- Connecting with staff at Mercy Hospital. In my previous trips, I was mostly focused on the CRC. I am enjoying learning more about Mercy and spending more time there.

- Being spiritually connected. It is incredible working for an organization that has God at the center of all its activities. There are multiple events a day that involved prayer, singing, and praise. It has been so nice to have that connection. (On a related note, I am working on reading the Bible cover to cover, so far I am on 2 Chronicles).

- Two missionary teams have come and provided the children of the CRC and staff with new, fun activities. It has been nice to have other people around to chat with and get new perspectives.

It has been a great month and I am looking forward to the many more to come!