I'd like to start out by apologizing for the long break I've taken in updating this blog! I've been bouncing from one thing to another this summer, and as such haven't really had the time or desire to write. Now where to begin....
The last week of July, I went on a mission trip with my church. We went to a camp in backwoods Kentucky to volunteer for a week. Half of our group were counselors for the week of camp for disabled people. The other half went into the nearby town and did day-camps for the local kids. I was one of the counselors, which meant that I had two campers I escorted around. Both were mildly mentally handicapped, which meant talking to them was like talking to a child. It was hard to find a balance of dealing with them in a way they understand without being condescending. Emotionally, the week was very draining. I had to set aside my wants and desires and focus solely on these two ladies. That meant that instead of walking at a normal pace, we walked at about 0.5 miles per hour; we went to the bathroom every fifteen minutes; and I answered the same list of questions again... and again... and again. Now don't get me wrong, I am very glad I went! However, it was a stretching time of learning to focus on others above myself and depending on God for strength and patience. Both of which are really good lessons that I've learned before, but managed to have to relearn quite often. Thursday was my hardest day. I had hit my breaking point emotionally and physically. I was running a low-grade fever, had a cold, was tired of taking care of my campers, and then one of them started acting out. The only way I kept from walking out on my two ladies was God's strength and patience. However, the next day, God showed me a verse that seemed to be written for me. Psalm 94:19 (ESV) "When the cares of my heart are many, Your consolations cheer my soul." That gave me a new wind to finish out the week.
The week after we got home was just a time of relaxation. I worked on getting over my cold, enjoying family time, and catching up with friends I hadn't seen all summer. So really, I have no excuse for not writing then.
Last week, I got busy again. I have a friend who is extremely interested in becoming a film director/producer. She has already produced a feature film, and is currently working on the editing phase of two short films. I have had the honor of working with her on all three. Last week we were filming the third film. I was the Production Assistant (fancy term for the person who keeps up with keys, phones, scripts, brains, etc.), as well as an actor. The character I was acting out was a college kid's fun (some would call it annoying!) younger sister. Seeing as that is the role I play in every-day life, I had absolutely no trouble! We had a lot of fun, learned a lot, and laughed a lot. Please be praying for my friend as she continues editing it and putting it together!
All that to say: I have had an extremely busy and fulfilling summer! God has been amazing with the opportunities He has afforded me. I've learned a lot about myself, other people, and God. It hasn't always been easy, but it has always been worthwhile. And it's official, if you actually sat and read through that entire post, you deserve a medal of some kind! I'm sorry it wasn't my usual short update!
