It is nearly a week since our return home.
Our time in
Albania came to an abrupt end.
The final week of camp in Erseke was great.
It was highlighted of course by the campers but in addition there was a team of high schoolers from
England who served.
They actually sponsored 20 orphans to attend camp.
These kids were so great.
They had so much fun.
Despite their circumstance it was great to see them smile throughout the week.
Like other weeks I joined a group of kids to follow. I met a 13-year old girl named Melinda. She was from the orphanage where she had been since 1999. Both of her parents have died and she is separated from her siblings. Melinda is also scared by a severe burn on her face which was suffered in a fire. Throughout the week I go to know Melinda. She had so many questions for me ranging from America to my family and interests. At weeks end she was in tears as we said our goodbyes. I knew her living conditions probably weren’t ideal, although I heard the conditions at her orphanage are good. But still she lacks a real family. My heart felt for her. I found comfort though in knowing she had a wonderful week at camp where she made great friends and learned more about God. One thing that amazed me about the group from the orphanage was their support from one another. They care for each other just like a family.
Reflecting on Albania I can’t stop thinking about the relationships made there. So many faces come to mind. I just developed 152 pictures; at least half are face shots of children I met. If you know me, you know that I’m a relational person. I enjoy being with and meeting people. God really convicted me in recognizing this quality. I learned that not only is this a quality to form relationship, but it is also a great spiritual gift. From this experience I know that in whatever avenue I pursue relational aspects/ministry will be apart of that.
A crazy throught…?
Now I’m back in Chico. I’m looking for a place to live and a career. I have two maybe three ideas in mind at the moment. The options include either pursuing a job in news media or aviation (with an airline or airport). The third option which has recently come to mind is to possibly return to Albania to serve in college ministry at a local university. This option was shared before leaving. I never really thought about it until now. Currently I’m praying for great guidance. I do see this as a great opportunity as I’m in limbo, maybe God is calling me to serve there. For now though, I still need time to process this latest wonderful adventure God sent me on.
