My Mission Statement

My Mission Statement
I am following my heart to Uganda to love, accept, and cherish the children I haven’t met yet. I am laying down my own life for the people of Uganda who so easily could have been born in my place on this earth, and I in theirs. I wish to know their stories, their fears, their dreams, and their laughs. I will keep my eyes and ears open to see those in front of me, living in each moment, rather than passing them by unnoticed. I must not waste breath on how I suffer, but rather how I am being changed through my suffering, and how I affect those given to me.

4.06.2011

Packing

Have you ever spent more than two days packing?  And don't anticipate finishing for another four days?  It's mentally exhausting!!  "Will I really need this?  Yes, I think so.  No, on second thought...no.  I will never need this over there.  Well...but what if...?"  I remind myself that this insignificant tribulation will be outweighed by the trials I am about to see in Uganda...The Pearl of Africa.

I feel a sense of calm before the storm.  Like all the days and weeks of preparation have been a fun game.  Is it real?  Is it true: I'm really going to Uganda for 34 days?  But I don't want the game to end.  And when I settle in reality for a moment, I realize, the opening song hasn't even begun yet!  And that makes me smile.  Oh just a few more nights and I'll be on my merry way.

It has been very helpful to have Nick in Uganda these past few days.  He's given me some great advice, and a hidden insight to what my life may be like for the next month.  It sounds exciting, new, friendly, and very free. 

I've continued to receive donations daily.  It still brings me to tears how you all have rallied to support me and the kids at House of Hope.  I am honored to be the face of your donations to these deserving kids.  I'll do my best to capture their response and thanks.  I'm constantly reminded of how much love is surrounding me as I journey to another end of the world.  Thanks to you all.

Thanks to you all for your unconditional support and encouragement.
Jillian