Sententia

What a week. I’m writing while on my flight into Boston. I just wrote out a brief play-by-play of our activities for every day and I’m already forgetting things! I believe part of this is due to the intensity and busyness of the experience and part due to my lack of sleep this week, especially the last two days. It's been tough at times, but far worth it.

Last night we had a brief meeting before bed. Everyone shared their best moments during the trip. It was a really great experience for me because I got to see what others were pondering throughout the trip. It always amazes me how many different things, small and large, can be important to people in many different ways.

For me, the most powerful moment actually came on our last day, during our visit to the memorial of the victims and survivors of hurricanes Katrina and Rita. When we got there were all pretty solemn and quiet. Personally, I felt extremely awkward being there, because I wasn't sure how the surrounding neighborhood felt about the many groups that come to visit. Almost immediately a few cars started honking at us. I became more nervous, but then I noticed the gentleman in the next car that honked gave us the peace sign. Graciously I realized they were honking for us, in true appreciation for our care for them. Words don't describe the peace and unity I felt.



A little later while gathered around the memorial, Red, one of the members in our group, asked me to pray. Red's a great guy, I wouldn't have had the courage to pray with the group unless he had pushed me. I knew it was the right thing to do, but I felt very fearful of what those driving by and those living in the area would think. We made a circle and bowed our heads in prayer together. That moment brought the whole experience together for me, including my other times in Mississippi. It was another moment where I realized although I travelled to help the gulf coast, the gulf coast helped me.

In that moment, God viscerally affirmed for me that as long as I do his will and follow his ways, all things in my life will be taken care of by him. This great fact effects my entire life. I need not worry about my resume, GPA, future jobs, or what the economy will be like when I leave college. My father will take care of that in ways I can't imagine.

I can't control what others think of prayer, but I can do it and trust that God will ultimately use it for good.