I'm currently sitting at my new dining room table. My new dining room table is very different than a typical dining room table. It's collapsable and mobile because unlike most, we have chosen to chase our adventure in a 45 foot RV motorcoach. Despite our ignorance of driving and living in a motorhome, we confidently jumpmed into our dream and there's no turning back!
Just over two months ago, we returned from a six-month-long mission trip to Zimbabwe, Africa. So many people generously supported us on the life-changing journey as we dedicated almost every waking minute to the people of Nhowe Mission (and many waking minutes when you aren't supposed to be awake!). As our family dove into the African culture, we saw things in a new light, and discovered what's really important in life. First, and most importantly, is our relationship with Jesus Christ. Second, is our relationship with our family. Third, our relationships with others. And forth, to live life everyday with a sense of belonging, a spice of adventure, and with no regrets. What we discovered is that many Zimbabweans live one day at a time and don't plan for the distant future because there is so much uncertainty and instability in their lives, economy, politics, even life or death of family members or themselves. It does provoke a much more God-reliant outlook on life!
So when we entered back onto American soil, we had a new perspective and a new set of priorities. Maybe it was the poverty and corruption we witnessed - and the compassion we developed for the Zimbabwean people as they lived without complaint, full of love and happiness. Perhaps it was the love of new friends we made at Nhowe Mission and their importance to our survival in a country and culture we had never lived in before. Was it the days and days we went without electricity and water that gave us time to reflect on life and on the necessities of daily living? Maybe it was all the times we couldn't do things by our own power, but through calling on God and His immediate, immaculate answers to prayer. Whatever the source of our inspiration, and it is definitely a combination of numerous experiences, this new perspective has had a big impact on our immediate life decisions.
Moving into this small living space with four kids is only the beginning (unfortunately, we left the dogs at home). Everything from here on out is a blank slate. Writing our own journey, living purposefully, fully relying on God, making memories, seeing old friends and making new ones. Our adventure around the United States in our "Skimobile" - and down as many ski runs as possible - is awaiting. Please join us!
