Preparation

I believe in purpose. The idea that this life I live is not all about me. It's a pretty revolutionary idea, pioneered by some guy named Jesus who asked us to love God first, our neighbour second and ourselves somewhere after all that. The problem with that is that means that two things have to come before myself, which is hard when I feel wired to only want things for me.

I've manipulated people, friends, family through out my life to get what I want. That's not what God intended, for this I'm sorry and ashamed. Sometimes I feel proud of myself for recognizing this, and apologizing for it. But doesn't that defeat the purpose and put me back in a place that I was trying to get away from? I digress...

I believe events in my life have been building to this moment. This trip I'm about to go on. I am of the opinion that that various events of the last 26 years have been preparing me for this exact event. Everything from my previous mission trips, to taking french immersion, to being called to Africa a few years ago, to kindling a friendship with two very similar men of faith, these are things that have shapped who I am. They are the things that will make this trip memorable and life impacting.

I want to go with open eyes, an open heart and a mindfull spirit. I'll keeping a journal while I'm over there. I plan to write in it everyday. I'll more than likely post my favourite bits here. So if anyone out there is reading this keep checking back here over the next couple weeks.