As the summer began, I posted a calendar of what was to come. And, those events have all come and gone... among many other things. The summer has FLOWN by and will soon be tucked under a blanket of fall colors and autumnal winds until next June.
The events of this summer have brought great amounts of growth and stretching. My faith has been tested from one day to the next. How so? In simple, daily living. Last year, the faith was tested in great obvious ways- visa, housing, school, relationships. This summer, my [faith] has been further established in the small details of who Cree is. Peace has become something that I will to experience and exhibit, rather than anticipate appearing. Love has become my hiding place.
It's been a summer of gifts. Since my birthday in May, it's just been one sweet, honoring gift after another. Some examples include a new passion, restored vision, encouragement when least expected, financial blessings, new songs, ministry partners, and a new sense of easiness. I got a good coffee date with Daddy Steve in the middle of June. Hallelujah for that coffee date. He and I talked through so many things going on around us and how to move forward. It was refreshing to talk to an American dad face-to-face and get some sound fatherly input. While I have great elders here, there are so many little cultural things that really make a big difference when seeking advice. It was then that I was most at odds about whether or not to stay another year... and HOW to stay another year. Steve is obviously partial to young people moving to Austria, but he provided such an objective perspective about all the details (staying or leaving). Exactly three days later, I finally made my heart and mind decision to STAY, as a student.
It has been a summer of fun. Once work and school ended for the year, I was able to breathe a little and jump fully into the ministry. A team from America (PA) came over at the end of June/beginning of July to help with our summer camp and many to stay for 3 months. I have to admit, when they first arrived, it was too much for me. At that first camp meeting with everyone, I thought I would explode. SO MUCH AMERICAN CULTURE AND AMERICAN ENGLISH IN ONE ROOM! I feel I can say this without offending any of them (you)- I didn't want anything to do with them (you), at first. I was FINALLY confident in being here and then they (you) come and screw it all up! When I arrived at the Brauhaus, I was polite and reluctantly introduced myself, but it wasn't until the end of the night that I really decided I was genuinely happy to have them (you) there. Sorry, to all of you! Then, the fun really began. These guys fall into the category of gifts and fun from this summer. I realized how much I missed little things about the American culture and language. Even more, though, this is a great group of solid people. Friendships grew from within this group that I wasn't expecting- thanks for seeing past my stubbornness!
Some fun events from the last month: lots of ice cream, Kirsch's visit, hiking in Eisenerz, swimming, a weekend in Wolfsberg, Smor-ba-que with house group and the J-team (practically the A-team, but cooler). Now that the PA team has begun to leave, I'm sad to see them go. My heart is thrilled to know many will come back for long term, but the others- I look forward to seeing you again eventually... even if it means a trip to Harrisburg the next time I'm State-bound!!
It's been a summer of productivity. I won't write too many details here, because it is boring. But, many tasks have been completed for Blast, other ministries, and for me personally. I am applying NOW for my visa extension. It seems the little details are coming together and I will be able to submit my application the week of the 14th!! I'll keep you posted. This year here will be different from the last year and soon, I will be writing a more specific letter about what that entails. A sneak peak- I won't be working regularly this year, as I did last year. This will allow increased freedom in my schedule to do more of what I am actually here to do in ministry, but requires a greater faith and support in finances. We'll talk about that at another time, though.
I've missed all of you and I've missed blogging. In the next few weeks, routine will re-enter my life. I am hoping, that at that time, to be able to blog more regularly and to even have dates with you again!
Wolfsberg gang- thank you for your commitment this summer and for seeing beyond my early moments of resentment! Like I said when I was down there, it is SUCH an encouragement to have had you here, sharing and working toward a vision with you. Even if you've felt your time here was limited or what you've come to do is "practically nothing", I assure you that you've had purpose and change has been set in motion because of your willing heart. Thank you. To you, especially who are not returning for a year commitment, I pray you're able to take something from Austria back to the States with you. Your being here hasn't been only to serve, but also to be served. May you experience that as truth.
Thank you everyone, again, for all of your support and encouragement this summer (this year)! And, thank you for all your patience and understanding! I value and love each of you!!
