Monday, September 5, 2011

The last month has been a whirlwind.
We left Uganda in a hurricane...we packed, organized, delegated, said goodbyes, and tied up loose ends all in a matter of a few days and then we took off in the middle of the night. I always wondered what would happen if there was a family emergency and we were half a world away...now I wonder no more and wish it wasn't so.

Those 3 1/2 weeks in America were the hardest we have ever been through. Seeing the person you love the most hurting over the loss of a loved one and not being able to do anything about is incredibly painful and humbling. I felt completely vulnerable and not strong enough...and still feel remnants of it even now as we are home...even now as tears well up in my eyes.

We returned to Uganda on a wednesday morning, packed up our house in bukaya on a thursday, and moved to jinja town on a friday. Looking back I dont know how we did it but I'm glad we did. With this move has come a lot less stress and a lot more community. I think down the road I will really ache to be back in that house... our first real home but today, I do not.

We are finally getting back into the swing of things and once again contemplating more change as we consider opening a retail space/office area here. On top of all things tukula I have recently begun helping with admin. work at Amani Baby Cottage and teaching an art class once a week at St. Nicholas Primary. I enjoy all of this but can't help but miss my days of solitude - learning and growing in the comforts and quietness of my home. Learning and growing outside of my own environment means more holding back tears and having to think quicker. We're still continuing with the bible study with friends on Saturdays - learning about life, love and other mysteries. I realize more than ever that I need that time so badly - to fellowship and really dig deep into scripture. It's rewarding and also humbling to know that we were not made to know everything.

The ladies of tukula are doing well. Esther said "when you are here with us it feels like home".
To me, that's worth way more than selling a billion bags.

I ask that you please keep us all in prayer as this is a season of grace and change for us.
Lots of love,
melissa

3 comments:

  1. Thanks Joe and Melissa for sharing. Losing someone close to you is incredibly painful. Have comfort that by sharing your story and vulnerability with your friends and online community that God's glory will be revealed. Press on! Definitely miss Jinja!

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  2. praying for dear friend. thanks for updating. sounds like you are very busy this season_ praying for some quiet moments during this time too. looking forward to meeting you one day soon. much love sista.

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