I am down to my last 24 hours in Lima. The final evaluations of my internship are done. The despedidas (goodbyes) have begun. The dreaded time to start packing is drawing near. (How am I ever going to fit all of this stuff into one bag?) My saving grace is that I am still waiting for Continental to send me my electronic ticket to print. When that happens, my departure is going to become a reality.
Surprisingly, I have shed only a few tears so far. I have to explain that comment by saying that, for me, shedding a few tears means that I only cried a little bit when I said goodbye to each person. That is a pretty good accomplishment for me as I tend to be a big llorona (crybaby.) In my spirit, I do not feel like my time here is done. Maybe I am in denial, or maybe this adventure is has not come to an end yet. At this point, only God knows that answer to that. But I like the peace He is giving me.
I feel like life is a story. It is a story made up of different chapters that are filled with encounters and people. This chapter has been an incredible one. The plot has been filled with the realization of dreams and desires that God has been placing in my heart for a long time. As the main character, I feel like I am living a dream that has become a reality.
Many people have written to me and commented on how much they admire what I am doing, especially because not many people could do it. I am not sure if they are referring to living in another country or working in an area that has a different socio-economic reality, or possibly something else. But, in this last post from Peru, I want to let everyone know that it is me who has been blessed by this experience. I am the one who has learned the most during this time in Peru. This community and these people have taught me and changed me. God has allowed me to see the harsh reality of life, but above all, He has allowed me to witness tremendous beauty, strength and dignity. God has shown me His compassion and His grace both in joy and laughter, as well as tears and the struggles. Most importantly, God has shown me through His servants here, that there is hope and there is faith that the world can change – no matter how difficult the process, no matter how big the obstacles. Thank you, God, for your love and your compassion.
The people I have met, the experiences I have had are now all a part of my story. I will carry them with me wherever I go, just as I carry most of you with me. I cannot wait to introduce you to some of them…their stories are worth listening to! Thank you so much for supporting me during the unfolding of my story. It is not over yet, so stay-tuned for the continuation….coming soon!
