Just a few minutes ago I purchased my tickets to go to Uganda. I'll be flying out of Chicago at 6am on June 4th, arriving in Washington at 8:45am and leaving Washington for Ethiopia at 11:15am, arriving in Ethiopia at 7:45am on June 5th and leaving Ethiopia for Uganda at 11am and then arriving in Uganda at 1:05pm on June 5th. The tickets cost $2,450, travel insurance was $75, and I have been given $3,195 in support so far--meaning I only need to raise $2,305! I'm more than half-way in support raising!! People continue to come alongside me and show interest for helping me this summer. It's so encouraging! Now, I only have to raise money to pay for my room and board for the trip and a facility fee. Wow, this is all becoming so real--I love it! :)
I found out yesterday that I'll be able to observe trauma rehabilitation of former child soldiers while in Uganda, I'm hoping to learn some Swahili before I go to Uganda so I can more actively participate in providing therapy to those affected by the civil war.
Fifteen people---that's what it has taken to raise $3,195; Fifteen people, and a lot of God's grace and provision. I'm still nervous that I won't receive the support I still need in order to go, especially when my parents don't think I'll get it. I'm trying my best to be optimistic and trust the Lord; it's a process and a struggle at times, but He keeps showing me that this is what He wants me to do. He keeps raising up people who desire to support me, through prayer and finances. He keeps encouraging me and showing me He has this under control and all planned out. He keeps showing me that I don't have any reason to freak out and be stressed, I just need to believe in His plan and trust Him.
I'm so blessed to be able to live out (God willing) a dream I've had since I was in middle school. The Lord has blessed me in so many ways and having this opportunity is almost more than I can bear at times. I don't deserve and of His blessings, but He chooses to lavish them on me--I have to idea why. His unconditional, steadfast love is so amazing. I think that's what makes this support raising process possible; knowing that He loves me and will make all things work out for my good allows me to have a positibe attitude/outlook on support raising...most of the time. I am still human :)
It's incredible to me that, for the most part, I've had such peace about raising support. It's all from God, but it's so unlike me to not be spazing out about how much I have left to raise in just over two months. It's cool to see the Lord working in me during this time and teaching me through it. I can't wait to see what He has in store for me, in the rest of my support raising process and while I'm in Uganda. I'm so excited to finally go!! It's a great feeling living the life/plans God has for you---so fulfilling!
