More Goodbyes

This past Monday night I had dinner with a lovely group of ladies that I (Rachael) have had the privilege of knowing these past 18 months. It is probably the last time that all of us will be together before I leave. I have loved every minute that I have worked at the Gift Chest, and been thankful for the relationships I have built there. In addition to all the books that I got to read for free, my time there was a blessing. Thinking over the many people that I have interacted with, I see that although you are selling books, gifts, music, etc...the Gift Chest exists as a place to minister to people. So, thank you Sandy and Eleanor for the wonderful opportunity to get to know all of you, and thank you for the opportunity to minister Christ's love to people in a way I had not experienced before. I'll miss you all...and the free books!

www.giftchest.ca

Cabbits, Squnks and Goodbyes

I (Rachael) just came back from an evening with a wonderful group of ladies from my church/town. It was a surprise-goodbye party for me, and at this moment I still feel a warm glow from the blessing of friendship...and also the wine. I can say, that tomorrow at church I may still be laughing as I mull over various conversation pieces...cabbits and squnks...very surprising.

Part of this journey to Czech is saying goodbye and looking back on what was; I understand that and am prepared for it. But what surprises me is nostalgically trying to look forward at what might have been, and mourning the loss of it. As I interact with friends made in Wingham over the last 18 months I find myself thinking... "Our kids would have gone to school together." Or, "They will keep shopping at the Gift Chest, and I won't be here to help them pick their next book!"... "Who will live in this house next?...I hope they enjoy my Japanese Bon Bon shrub!" ..."Will they have kids who play with the Pittocks?" Or even upcoming events in the church bulletin that I won't be here for... I am surprised at how God can sew your heart together with others in such a short amount of time...surprised, but thankful.

I am thankful tonight. Thankful for the opportunity to love and be loved.

I am sad tonight. Sad that the circumstances by which to love and be loved by these people will change.

I am thankful tonight. Thankful that although Czech is far away, it is not too far to continue to love.

I supposed that as we continue this journey there will be surprises aplenty. Blessings, trials, sadness and gladness...to name a few.

Tonight was one of those nights that I will look back on and still feel the warm glow...and it won't be from the wine.