In Memory of Bright Blue

Today at approximately 3:00 in the afternoon Bright Blue Mosquito Net was laid to rest in the dustbin of Michelle Halemeier’s room on the ABC Campus in Lilongwe, Malawi. Bright Blue lived a noble life in service and dedication towards protecting the lives of others. Who knows how many others he blessed (I’d actually like to know) as he served each night to protect and guard off the Malaria Biting Mosquitoes of Lilongwe. Bright Blue was best known for his clumsiness as he would sometimes fall onto the heads of those he protected. However, Bright Blue never meant to harm anyone and with a smile and a soft chuckle he was always hung back up to do his job. Bright Blue passed away quietly this morning around 9:00am due to a tearing of a thread leading to the dislocation dislodging of the circular wire that holds his form. Bright Blue will soon (like tomorrow) be replaced…but never forgotten. Goodbye Blue, goodbye.

The 4 Stages of Acceptance

The past few months have been a bundle of emotions and new emotions only continue to surface as this process continues. From questioning and disbelief to a sense of assurance and surrender, I hold on tight to the knowledge that our God is mighty and freely gives a love deeper than what I can fathom. The process to go to Malawi seemed to come so quickly into play the moment my heart said "yes"! There were no "take backs" or "ha, I changed my mind". And as scary as that was, I also felt a deep sense of comfort and a soft whisper telling me to have faith and take a step. He would take care of me if I trusted Him on this one!

So as I prepare for a year teaching in Africa I've noticed some things. I notice myself becoming more in need of hugs and love as I realize that very soon I will be separated from everyone near and dear to my heart for a whole year. My apologies if you feel smothered at all!! I also want to spend every waking moment with friends and family. Even if that means taking a friend to the health center to help me get shots, or simply dragging friends around town in the heat to run errands. Thank you dear friends for that. I've also noticed how extremely anxious I've become about how to pack for a year. How does one pack for a whole year? Honestly?

However, as I think about the opportunity to go to Africa I think about many of you. When the opportunity to go teach in Malawi arose I prayed that God would reveal Himself to me and continue to reaffirm this life-changing decision…and He has through many of you! Through your excitement and enthusiasm I have been so encouraged. Your willingness to pray for me has been uplifting. I have been completely overwhelmed by the generosity of those who already have or have said they are willing to support me financially, and I love that so many have jumped on board and are diligently collecting cans for me. There are even a special few who are willing to stay after church to dumpster dive with me, or even help me cart a load of cans to be recycled. You people should be given a medal, I'll put in the order to heaven now!
All in all I just want to say “THANK YOU”!!!! Your love and support goes much further than you may realize and I am so grateful for all your love.