Journal Thoughts- on way to Africa

We are such a reserved people.
I want to scream from the top of my lungs, "I'm going to Africa!" Instead I walk around like I have a secret quietly rejoicing-smirking-my life will forever be changed.

We are always trying to protect "our space". Walking around void, guarded, closed, lonely. Sitting in the Dulles airport I met a wonderful Ethiopian woman. I loved being out of my ordinary, surrounded by Ethiopians. Some Muslim, some Christian, some traditionally dresses, but all ready to meet you with a smile. Open, warm. Extraordinary beauty.

A man and woman sit down with a girl around 6-very skinny, drooling, babbling. She lives in the states with her mom, dad and siblings. But they thought the best thing for her was to send her to Ethiopia where other family members could care for her. There she would have a nanny and family that would be available around the clock.*My heart and thoughts cannot begin to wrap around their choice* However my heart broke for her dad as he paced around after he handed her over to her Aunt who volunteered to take her to Ethiopia. It was apparent he was grief stricken.

Before I left I prayed, "Lord fill my heart with your love for people. Put people in my path you want me to be your light. So you are glorified"

After an hour into the flight the 6 year old girl got more and more uncontrollable and agitated. "mom dad I'm sorry." she would yell. " I want my mom" She was thrashing all over the floor. She was confused, scared. Her poor Aunt tried to calm her. The flight attendents tried to calm her. They sang Jesus loves me over and over to soothe her. I got up and went into the bathroom and cried. I cried. "Lord please help this girl".
When I walked out the little girl ran to me. She stroked my hair and for the remainder of the 17 hours flight I was her momma. She calmed down and melted into my arms. I was humbled, honored. Grateful.

On my way to Africa. I know I'm a dork.