PVI Departure

It has now been five days since my arrival in Jamaica.  Three of us are here now and we are still awaiting the arrival of the two other PVI's.  Lauren and Betsy are two of the PVI's from last year and they have blessed us with their insights.  However, they are both departing for home tomorrow.  They have done an exceptional job of showing us around and answering hundreds of questions over the last five days.  We would love to have them stay a bit longer but we understand they must go now.  We wish them a safe return home and a smooth transition back to American life :)  I can feel how these people and this culture have become a part of them as I watch their reactions as they prepare to say goodbye. 

 It seems so distant, but a year will go by and we will face the final moments, just as Lauren and Betsy are facing now.  But, I can't possibly understand what they must be feeling or thinking at this moment.  All I can do is think about what this next year will bring.  What challenges will I face?  How will I struggle through them?  What will some of the greatest moments feel like?  And when will they come?  How will they look?  What will it be like to have my family and girlfriend come visit?  Of course, I can't wait to see them and for them to experience my life here.  But what will they think?  How will they feel?  How will I feel?

And also, how will I change?  Will I even notice these changes and how will I accept them? More importantly, how will the most important people in my life react to how I've changed?  

But, in regard to all the questions, anxieties and uncertainties I have for this year, it is going to be an incredible year.  And how can an incredible year yield anything but goodness?  

There will be struggles, challenges, good times and bad times and there will be change.  Surely, as Lauren and Betsy wrap up a year in service, they have experienced all these and more.  And they are leaving as a better person because of them.     

Peace,

Matt