Belize: The Initial Thoughts

I left part of my heart in Belize.
As I sit at my computer, now back in the quietness of western Michigan, thousands of miles away from Progresso in the Corozal district of Belize (3952 miles round trip by our flight route and driving), thoughts beyond count are spinning through my head. I'm grateful for what God has given me here at home and the mission field we still have here and how we can minister to our family, friends, and neighbors and strangers, but I already miss everyone so far away. It is because of our shared faith in Christ and serving together that after this week... our guides from Thirst Missions, Angel, Lorelly, and Luda are my friends. The people at La Iglesia Templo Hermosa are my friends as well.

I didn't know who they were a week ago. Today... I miss them already.

I can't help but think of how much has changed in such a short time and in some ways, I'm not surprised and in other ways, I am.

How far we came in our week.

Where we were emotionally, spiritually, etc. before we arrived.

What we learned.

What we hoped for or hoped might not happen.

What we agonized over during the week.

What we prayed for before the trip and during and saw answered in incredible ways.

In some ways, I wondered if I'd get attached and want to leave a part of myself in Belize. I'd never been to Central America or tropical climates, didn't know life there, didn't know a soul there, etc.

Our hosts and church in Progresso, La Iglesia Templo Hermosa... they welcomed us as their own and not just as fellow church members but as part of a family. They loved us without holding back.

There is much need we were able to meet, but we also learned much, loved deeply and were also loved deeply in return and taught how to love even better. For even that, I am grateful beyond words.

I already wonder when I can return and do something else.

And now... the trip itself.