New Beginnings and Goodbyes

I've never been a fan of either. I always get so excited by something new, something unfamiliar--but always, I seem to have a hard time transitioning. Goodbyes are never how we wish they could have been, looking back on them. It makes me nervous thinking about these two things. Yet as always, they are both in God's hands, and in His plans for me. It wasn't until today that I first got emotional about leaving. It's a bittersweet taste that fills my mouth as I watch my dad playing with my nephew at our house. He will never be just the way he is right now--ever again--So sweet as he gibber-gabbers things that make sense only to him and looks to us for confirmation. Oh and baby hugs, too. they are the best. those tiny little arms embrace me tightly as his face is pressed firmly against my shoulder... I will miss him--there's no doubt about it.


The funny thing is that he's probably the only one right now who isn't worried about me going to Israel in any way. His ignorance is bliss at some levels. Sure, he cannot understand the weight, importance, and greatness of the trip I am taking, but he hasn't a care in the world. He has no presuppositions about the cultrue or about what I will experience or learn while I'm there; no fears about how prepared I will be when I leave or what life will be like when I get back. He takes everything in stride. Faith like a child, Lord; faith like a child is what You ask.