Wherein My Comfort Zone Gets Blown To Smithereens

Hello, Internet.  Welcome to my Comfort Zone.

It's a cushy little place, with soft pillows and high-speed internet access.  The remote control always works, and there is always a Diet Coke from Sonic just around the corner. 

Not too much is expected of me in this Comfort Zone.  I know my way around quite well--I've spent most of my life here, in fact.  No mosquito netting is required, no special immunizations are needed, and for the love of Pete, no children are ever hungry.  Or orphaned.  Or afraid.

And so it was, a couple of months ago, that I was having a fairly leisurely morning in my Comfort Zone, checking my e-mail, munching my breakfast and listening to some cable news.  A nice and cushy and comfy morning.  Just like always.

And then a little e-mail popped up on my screen.  It was from Compassion International, the highly-regarded relief agency that works all over the world.  I'd known of them for years.  We'd even been planning for a few months to sponsor a Compassion child--we just hadn't gotten around to it yet.

But they weren't asking me to sponsor a child.

They were asking me to go to Africa.

They're taking a team of bloggers to Uganda for ten days in February, to live-blog the relief efforts going on over there.  And would I like to go?

Oh-how-kind-of-you-to-ask-there's-absolutely-no-way-I-have-four-kids-but-thanks-anyway.

I forwarded the e-mail to Hubs.  My solid, logical, ever-rational Hubs, who never makes an emotional or impulsive decision.  I just knew he'd agree with my assessment that this was a huge impossibility.

Except that the minute he got my e-mail, he called me from his office.  "I think you should go," he said immediately.

Um-yes-excuse-me-did-you-know-there-are-lions-there-and-you-have-to-fly-a-very-very-very-long-time-over-an-ocean-or-two?

"Yes," he said, "and I think you should go.  Let's talk about it tonight."

I wrote back the Compassion folks and told them their offer was very kind, and I'd need to pray about it and talk with my husband. 

But instead, I started making a list of all the reasons this wouldn't work.  And there were a lot of reasons.  I'm a mother of four kids, for Heaven's sake--who on earth would check their backpacks if I went trotting across the globe?  And I'm terrified beyond words of flying, even going just a couple of states away.  Flying across the ocean?  Alone?  And I know there are many, many people doing very heroic and brave work in Africa MUCH more demanding than what I was being asked to do, but I am not at all one of those heroic and brave and adventure types.  Not at all.  And did I mention there are lions?  And airplanes?  And that the only international travel I've ever done was going to Cancun and staying across the street from a PLANET HOLLYWOOD?

I did actually pray about it, and a surprising thing happened.  All the reasons I couldn't do this began to fall away one at a time.  Friends and family eagerly lined up to help with kids and logistics.  It turned out I wouldn't be going alone--Sophie was going too, and she promised to faithfully coach me through the bazillion hours on the airplane.  The passport and immunization stuff was do-able.  The reasons not to go kept falling away until there weren't any left. 

Well, there was one left.  It was the one that had been there, sitting beside me in my Comfort Zone for a really long time. 

I'm not sure I want to be changed that much. 

My well-intentioned ideas about sacrifice and making a difference are well and good, but those things are easy to say sitting in your carpeted, air-conditioned living room with your well-fed children.  I'd be going to Africa specifically to see the vast and overwhelming need there, so that I could in turn write about it.  We'd be going out into the villages, and the hospitals, and the orphanages.

A person doesn't see something like that and just stay the same. 

To make a very long story (sort of) short, the last two months have been a time of wrestling with some ugliness in my own heart, not wanting to admit how dependent I am on being surrounded by loveliness and convenience.  And let's just say it:  I'm afraid.  I'm afraid to fly, I'm afraid to be away from my family that long, and most of all, I'm afraid to see the kind of suffering I'm going to see.  And while I've come face-to-face with a whole heap of my own fear and selfishness, I've seen more of God's grace than I ever have before.  He's already used this whole experience to turn my heart upside down.

And I haven't even gone yet.

So yes, I'm going.  The passport is on my kitchen counter, and the immunizations are scheduled for later in the week.  I'm hammering away at all the logistics, and I plan to be taking you all with me every step of the way.  I'm excited and nervous and terrified and humbled and--dare I say it?--ready to be changed.   

Comments

[Kendra]

Wow, Shannon! What an amazing opportunity for you, and us since you'll be blogging along the way. We had 'Missions Sunday" today at church. Hearing the stories really stirs the heart, even when your mission field is littered with laundry and Hot Wheels. You will do fine on the plane-God knows you and knows what you need. He even had this in His plan when He had you start your blog. You will be blessed beyond imagination for following Him into this great unknown. Read Exodus 3....When Moses asks "Why me?" God says 'I am with you." He will be with you, too.

Have a fab time!! And I can't wait to read all about it!!

[Sue]

Oh, Sharon, I'm so jealous. I really am. This is so close to my heart. What an amazing, life changing opportunity. I have acquaintences who run a volunteer organization that builds schools in Kenya, and my dream is to go with them to Kenya at some point. How wonderful. And how much good you are going to do. What a huge blessing.

[Rachel]

In Hebrew, we say "Kol Hakavod" (roughly translated as "all the honor") when someone does something well, stretches beyond their normal boundaries, and achieves something. So kol hakavod to you for deciding that you can and should do this. Its a big step and a huge decision but hopefully it is one that will make an impact on your life for years to come. I'll be intrigued to read about your journey!

[Boysmum2]

You go for it girl, what a fab oppurtunity. Enjoy it, learn from it, love it.
It will be hard, fun, emotional and 100 other things but you will grow from it.
Look forward to reading all about it down here in NZ.
PS flying is ok, done it loads of times and love it, you will be fine,

[Owlhaven]

Wow, I'm thrilled for you!!! My mom, dad and sister are going on a mission trip to Africa this summer too. I will be blogging about it soon

Africa is amazing

Mary, mom to many, including 4 Ethiopians

[kelli]

Wow.

What a profound opportunity. we will begin to lay the groundwork in prayer for you now.

[Erica]

I am so excited for you. Uganda is on my list for where I want to go on a mission trip someday.
You should check out www.invisiblechildren.com...
just a suggestion. :o)

[Amanda]

Wow, what an amazing opportunity and what an amazing thing that all of your obstacles that were in your way started to disappear one by one after prayer. I love prayer. I love the power of prayer. I will pray for you on your journey if this is one you will be making. What an amazing opportunity!!

[Stretch Mark Mama]

Am wishing I was skinny enough to fit in your luggage. Then again, maybe I WOULD fit in your luggage.

Oh, I'd go in a second! A nano-second!

From this Mama who went to China a year ago: I can attest that you will never regret it, and will never be the same again. I have never been so humbled and changed as I did when I saw the heart of God amongst the people and places of China.

And one of those little people is sleeping in my house right now.

Godspeed to y'all.

[mel from freak parade]

Wow. Just wow. Coming out of lurking with that verbose comment. :) I think that is amazing. I, too, would be very afraid to leave my comfort zone. You will be in my prayers. I just know it is going to be an amazing experience for you.

[Sarah]

That's great! I look forward to reading about your trip there. I guarantee that you will come back changed - what a wonderful opportunity!

I know what you mean about not wanting to be changed, though. It's a hard thing to do, to give up that little bit of control that we think we have in our lives...and here I am a missionary wife in Indonesia!!!

[jessica]

Don't be scared to fly... God will remove your fears and will protect you! You are going to be changed in so many ways and you will be so blessed! How cool that blogging is taking you around the world! Can't wait to read about it!

[The Thrifty Blogger]

Wow! That is amazing! I'd have all the same fears too, I think most people would. We all get to experience it too, through your eyes. I am SO looking forward to reading all about it. That's excellent! :)

[Rebecca]

Omg so exciting! I would be afraid too. But you're wonderful, so you'll sail through. Honest ;)

[dcrmom]

WOW. Girl, I feel ALL of your fears. But I can't WAIT to hear about it through your eyes. I will pray for your peace and comfort and most of all that God will work his will in your heart. I'm sure it's going to be an amazing experience.

[Zoe]

Oh WOW, what an amazing opportunity.
I really want to go on one of the trips with Samaritan's Purse to deliver Christmas Shoeboxes, but heck, a compassion trip would work. We used to sponsor through them but had to stop when our budget tightened, I still have the photos of "our" girls though!

[SusanInGermany]

What an amazing opportunity. I visited my Compassion Child in the Dominican Republic when I was in college. It was an amazing experience. Of course that plane ride was in our hemisphere. If it makes you feel better, I went to Afghanistan in 2004, that took about 30 hours. Anyway, when the people ask you, "Why are you here?" What will you tell them?

[Stacey]

Wow! How cool!!! I'm so happy your going!!!!!

[Tammy]

That sounds so neat and will be life changing for all.This year my son has been studying Africa ,i have never learned so much about this place until now.

[jackie]

You won't regret it at all, it will be a life changing experience, one that every person, espeically Christian, should have. And I wouldn't worry about the lions. I have many friends in Uganda, all of which live healthy,full, normal, lion-less lives! Oh, and for the plane...take Dramamine!! The only thing you should really worry about is that international travel is ADDICTING! You'll be signing up for many more trips after this one. I've been to eleven countries...and long to see more!

[karen]

"I'm not sure I want to be changed that much." That statement hit me right between the eyes. There is so much truth to that and it pretty much sums up every struggle I have.

It is a wonderful opportunity and I am glad that you decided to go. You are right. You will never be the same. And although that may seem frightening, it's going to be great!

[YewNorkbabe]

Oh I am so excited for you ladies, and I can't wait to read all about your adventures. What a blessing you will be for all the children.

Please take a look at the video I posted today, it shows exactly what is happening to today's youth.

[Jacki]

Oh my gosh, what a wonderful opportunity! I so envy you right now....

While my Dad was in the Navy (mid 1990's), he did a several month tour along the west coast of Africa, visiting several countries doing "goodwill projects" in the local villages. Then they would join them for celebrations at the end.

I still love looking at all his pictures and hearing the stories. He has little sourveniers from some of the villagers, like a seashell he paid a little boy $1 for.

It will definitely change your life! I can't wait to read about it.

[Happy Momma]

That is so wonderful. My FIL has been to Africa several times, recenteley a mission organization (who I will remain nameless due to the vast internet), was asked to take on their vp role of this mission organization, he knee jerked and said no, and then the Lord kept telling him yes. He is now resigning from his senior pastoral position in 8 days and will be stepping out on the Lord's faith the first of February.

The Lord can do amazing things as long as we are willing to let him! We are firm believers in this household that Satan and fear go hand in hand, therefore stand firmly on the word and your 23 hour flight will seem quicker than you can imagine!

We will be lifting you up in our household!

[Tara]

I'm a faithful reader although I don't comment much at all...but I am SO excited to read this and excited for you. God is so awesome!

[Jada]

I know just how you feel! I hate to fly, aboslutely hate it (not that I'm a control freak or anything!) and was called to go on a mission to the Ukraine! I went and survived the flights, with a lot of help from God and a little help from my doc prescribing a little something to help me relax! It didn't do much so I didn't even take the pills on the flights home.

With everything falling into place for you to go, I know God will use and bless you!

Prayers,
~Jada

[Heather]

As far outside of your comfort zone as it is (and it would be for me, too) I can't wait to see what the Lord does with you there. I haven't seen anyone come back from these trips with their heart in the same place. And, since yours is already upside down, this will really be awesome! I'm so excited for you and can't wait to take the journey with you through the blog and lift you up in prayer.

[Fiddledeedee (It Coulda Been Worse)]

Oh my word. What an amazing opportunity. I think you will be profoundly changed. I'll be praying for you, I know how hard it is to venture out of the comfort zone. And that's quite a leap!

[Dana]

Wow, I'm blown away Shannon. That is really reaching out of your comfort zone...but such a worthy thing to do. When do you guys leave? And Boo Mama is going too? Oh my gosh - that would be so awesome...but I am sure it won't be fun and games, but at least you'll be in good company (both of you) :)

I have some friends from our city that are in Africa right now doing missionary work. They are also blogging. Here is their link if you are interested in checking it out.

http://kenya007.blogspot.com/

I'm really excited about following your journey Shannon!!!

[Lynley]

I spent two summers in Kenya establishing programs for street girls while in grad school and Africa completely changed my life and my faith (for the better). In fact I am working on a blog post about it right now (hopefully to be completed by the week's end).

You will be blessed by your trip, but most importantly others will be blessed by the work you do.

Although there is no Sonic, you most likely will get the chance to sip a coke (diet is hard to come by) out of a plastic bag with a straw. Fun times.

[Adventures In Babywearing]

Oh my goodness! What an opportunity I am SURE you will not regret!

Will be thinking of you...
Steph

[Llama Momma]

Wpw. WOW! What an amazing opportunity.

[Jamie]

That is so exciting!!!! What an incredible opportunity. I'd be nervous, too, (I don't like to fly, I don't like to camp, I don't like to get out of my comfort zone either) but just think of what a life changing experience this will be for everyone and what a positive thing this will be. Awesome!

[Carrie]

That's AWESOME!!!!!! I can't wait to hear all about it!

[CP]

What a wonderful experience! I'm so excited for you! Let me know if you need a travel companion :)

[Rachel May]

What an incredible post. Thank you for sharing your heart on this, because what you wrote is EXACTLY how I would have responded (except change the four kids to one, but still...).

I can't WAIT to see what God has in store for you, and, by extension, your family. You know that coming back closer to God will only have benefits for them!

[Jenny]

It's scary and exciting, and I'm dying to go back. What an incredible opportunity! Congratulations!

[Susan G.]

What an opportunity! I understand your fears completely. Change is very, very hard. Thank you for saying yes (and thanks to your family and friends for making it possible). I think your trip will change all of us for the better.

[Kim]

Wow! That is so awesome. And, you will be changed, unless you have a hard heart, which you have never shown here. I have been to China into a village, into the orphanage and it did change me forever. China is where I met my daughter face to face for the very first time. It is also where I met my Western pride. It is where an old man with one chair humbled me with his hospitality, and where the graciousness of those who served us humbled my feeble attempts at being gracious. Your heart will melt, and quite possibly break. And God will mend it into a soft, pliable and living heart which has seen things that need to be talked about and will love as it has never loved before. You will have the ability to love as Jesus loved. May you go with open eyes, open arms and an open heart.
Blessings, Kim

[Amy]

You are SO brave. Good for you! I absolutely can not wait to read about your experience.

Everyone I know who has been to Africa has been changed, permanently, but for the better.

Bon voyage!!

[Mich]

Shannon, I am so excited for you. I will give you a call sometime this week to hear more about it. I wish I was going with you!!!! Especially after todays speaker at church. If you have time, go to Fellowshipnwa.org and podcast Sunday's message (a really cool speaker that made us laugh so loud). It spoke exactly to what you are getting ready to do. How awesome!!!! Please let me know if there is anything I can do for you from NWA.

[Julia]

Shannon,

I have never been to Uganda - but am planning to go in July of this year - however, I have been to 17 countries doing mission work - and I will warn you. You will never be the same. First of all - you realize all the things we complain about are just not as big of a deal... but more than that - doing great things for others is addicting! You will find yourself wanting to do more!

I can't wait to see your writings about Uganda... so I can see what it will be like when I get there in July!

[Donna]

What a great opportunity! I can't wait to read all about it! I have been to Kenya twice to visit my parents who were missionaries there while I was in college. It was awesome, heartbreaking, humbling, difficult but fun all at the same time! You will find that although the people (africans in general) there have *nothing*, they will be so generous to *you* and thankful for every little smile you give them. It's overwhelming the differences between our land of plenty and their land of nothingness. You will never forget this trip, and even though you are scared out of your wits right now, when its all over, you will be so glad you did it.

[Summer]

Oh my goodness what an amazing opportunity. I'm so glad you're going.

[Barbara]

Good for you. This is what being brave is about. Being scared and doing it anyway. The very best of luck and I can't wait to read all about it.

[Gina]

Wow - that's amazing! I can't wait to hear all about it.

[nicole]

Wow--how incredible. I can't wait to read what you have to share with us.

[Activities Coordinator]

That is absolutely fabulous. I know how you feel about leaving the kids, though.

[Judi]

You will be in my prayers.

[Ami]

Thank you for being so honest about your fears. I can't wait to hear all about your trip!

[Jenn]

WOW! Most people started with that but I have to say it too...again...WOW!

That's amazing. I'm glad you are going...for all of us who can't :)

I'm praying for ya!

[Jessica]

Oh my! This is such an amazing opportunity. I am looking forward to the live blogging. I think it can be life changing for many! What will you be going?

[Aunt Murry]

What a fantastic opportunity. My heart is just screaming to go with you! If you need any tips on international travel just ask. I went to Singapore last April. Which isn't the same. I am so happy that you decided to go. It will change you in way sthat you cannot imagine.

[Jenni]

Oh MAN!!! I am so crazy jealous! But mostly I am simply and completely excited and thrilled for you! My mind overflows with superlatives about how wonderful an opportunity this is and how blessed I just know you're gonna be by it...

We have sponsored three kids through compassion for years now, and they are a fabulous organization. I look forward to reading the live feed, and to hearing your very own thoughts on the relief efforts!!

CONGRATULATIONS SHANNON!!

[Beth]

Wow! What an amazing thing to do. I think you are very brave, and that this will change your life. I am so glad I found your blog and I will be able to experience this vicariously by reading along. Have a safe trip.

[Lady Why]

Wow. WOW!!! That will be an amazing trip! One that I will faithfully follow... from the comfort of my cushioned computer chair with my glass of iced tea. Comfort zones, you just got to love them. And stretch out of them from time to time. I'll be praying for your safety, a peace that passes all understanding (while you're over that ocean and all), and for you to be changed in the most miraculous of ways!

[Jane]

What an amazing thing this world of blogging is! What an amazing opportunity. I read a blog called http://africankelli.com anyway, Kelli works for a non profit that goes to Africa to work on water systems and such in rural villages. She also works with orphanages. Maybe you would enjoy looking over her posts and stunning pictures? She has captured both the poverty and the beauty that is all people. Might be reassuring? Anyway, the posts, I think, are in her sidebar under Africa or travel.

[Nicole]

This is so fantastic - can't wait to read about your adventures. God always finds us when we've wiggled down deep into the cushions and blankets of our comfort zone, doesn't he?

[fullheartandhands mama]

What an amazing opportunity! I'll be praying for you and your family.

[Jeni]

Wow. I can just imagine this will be a life-changing experience. My brother and SIL are in the process of adopting a child from Ethiopia, and included in the process will be a week-long trip there. My hubby and I have considered adopting, but the idea of travelling to Ethopia has given me pause...

You'll be in my prayers, and I look forward to reading about your adventures and about how much God has grown you through this experience!

[E]

Delurking, because Compassion, an amazing organization, is close to my heart. You will be touched greatly by such a trip, I have friends who have been on many of Compassion's overseas trips and they have, as previous posters suggested, been changed in so many unbelievable ways. What an amazing opportunity for the writer behind one of my favorite blogs. I cannot wait to hear about your time away.

[Jeana]

Wow, Shannon, that's huge!

And...that's all I can think to say, how big this is. But I think you'll be glad you did it.

[Short Stop]

How awesome, Shannon! Really, really awesome!

[pam]

Wowie, wow, wow, Shannon!!

After your hint the other day, I thought y'all were headed for an international adoption . . . which would be cool, too.

Yet, this is an incredible opportunity and a privilege. I am so proud of your Hubs for encouraging you to go. One more reason to laud that man!

Have a fabulous time and know that I will be praying daily over all your fears, your plans, and for all God is planning to teach you while you're there.

We sponsored a child in Uganda for several years via World Vision, so that area holds a special place in my heart.

Looking forward to reading of your heart change as you follow where God is leading you, dear Shannon.

[coolbeans]

What an incredible opportunity. I'm glad you're able to embrace it.

[Melissa]

"fear not, for I am with you;
be not dismayed, for I am your God;
I will strengthen you, I will help you,
I will uphold you with my righteous right hand."
I can't wait to read about all you see and hear! Thanks for being willing to step out of the familiar to be the eyes and ears of so many!

[Thia]

I will be praying for you. Hugs.

[Kai]

Delurking as well to say what an incredible experience!!! And what an experience to share with your family! My thoughts and prayers will definitely be with you on your amazing journey!

[connie]

The flight won't be that bad. (I have flown to Thailand, so I've done the longdistance fly thing.)

Take extra socks on the plane and change during layovers. Your feet will love you for it.

Congrats! Your life will change! It's a good thing!

[Lori]

I'm green with envy!!!

[gretchen from lifenut]

Holy gravy cats, Shannon!

Thinking of you, praying for you, on the edge of my seat to read what happens next.

Wow.

[Charity]

Hello there, I've read your blog for a long time now and just wanted to say that I am so glad you are going to Africa and that you are stepping out of your comfort zone! God will honor that, for sure!

We serve with the IMB over here in the UK, but my hubby's parents have been in Africa (and hubs grew up there) for 25 years. We just returned from a 2 week trip to see them and had a fabulous time! I've got some pics on our blog if you want to see them.

Blessings! Can't wait to hear about your trip!

Charity

[Megan]

Isaiah 41:10
So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.

"Do not fear." This was the Bible verse for 2 year olds last night at church. I have been repeating it for the last 18 months as I have lived so far out of my comfort zone here in France that I'm not sure I even have one any more. But as in France, so it is in Uganda. He is already there. Waiting.

So go with wild expectations, and be ready. You will no doubt experience the magnificence of God, the beauty of the people and the annointing fire of the Holy Spirit as lives are changed.

[Jen]

Wow... I have so much to say to you that there is no way I can fit it on this little comment. I mean, so... so... much to say. In a nutshell, I am thrilled for you. Long time reader, rarely comment, but I read your blog every day.

I have been to Zambia twice working with AIDs orphans in bible camps. You WILL be changed. You can't go there, hold this living precious Child of God, feel and see their pain, BUT above all, see their absolute JOY despite the pain, and not be changed. But the change will be glorious, precious, and you will be so blessed and God will give you a peace that passes all understanding as you are there. There's just something about Africa, and the orphans there that will grab your heart and keep.

Can't wait to read your blog while you're there.

[Beth]

I'm going to Africa some day. Short term missions trip. Hopefully to Mali or Burkina Faso. I cheer you on!! God goes before you and thousands will pray. It will be great!

[momrn2]

I am so glad you decided to go!! I am excited for/with you! I will begin, even now, praying for you and that God will continue to pave the way!

What an incredible opportunity! Keep us posted!!...

[Lari]

Shannon,

It's always amazing to see God at work. What a wonderful thing! It will change you. I'll be praying for you and everyone on the trip.

[Tara]

GOOD FOR YOU!!!! I'm sure it will be an amazing experience for you.

When I was a teenager I spent 2 months in Nepal at an orphanage with Teen Missions and it changed my whole life. It has altered my perspective permanently- It has been 17 years since I was there but the lessons were lifelong.

[Andrea]

Wow - so, so excited for you. God is amazing - I can't wait to read about your trip ... and your heart during it!

[Amy]

I can't wait to hear about your journey. What an awesome opportunity and from the sounds of it you worked through each and every detail. Thank you for your honesty.

[Frazzmom]

You are going to get so hooked! I took my first mission trip to Tanzania in 2003, since then I have been there three times and am planning to go again this summer for a month... On one of the trips we spent time at a Compassion Center in Arusha- they do wonderful work there.

It is my dream to someday go to see my sponser child, Juma, who lives in Dodoma...

I am so jealous!

[Melissa Markham]

What an amazing opportunity! I know we will all be blessed by your travels. Thanks for stepping out of your comfort zone! Maybe it will encourage more of us to do the same!

[Karen @ Simply A Musing Blog]

Incredible. Just incredible. I'm so excited for you to have an opportunity like this, and I know that we will all be changed as well just reading about it. Thank you for your honesty and for overcoming your fears and going for it. You go, girl.

[aimee]

Oh I am so excited for you! And, I can understand your reservations, but I just know it will be amazing. I can't wait to learn from you about what is happening over there.

[Liz]

Bravo to you for admitting what was really keeping you back. I'll be praying for the boldness of the Holy Ghost for you for this trip! (Acts 1:8)

[Jean Stockdale]

I am so thrilled for you! What a God-thing. I also never dreamed of leaving my comfort zone but God began to open doors to travel out of the country and teach His Word. My husband and I have been trained to teach a program called Pioneer Evangelism about church planting and discipleship to pastors and church leaders. In 3 years we have been to Nigeria, Angola, India 2x, Uruguay and we just have returned from Nepal. Who knew? A wife and a mom getting to proclaim the excellencies of Christ in the uttermost parts of the world!! You are right-you will never be the same, but you and your family will benefit from the world vision God will give you. And your gift for writing will expland the ministry and bring it "home" to a fresh audience. I will be praying for you and anxiously watching for all the details. Blessings.

[Abby Hyink]

I love reading your blog and have for some time. My hubby and I visited Kenya for 10 days 6 years ago. We didn't see orphanages, but we had the opportunity to spend an afternoon ministering in a slum village in Nairobi. Sobering. Even now, when I am tempted to complain about what I don't have, remembering that immense span of true poverty reminds me how incredibly rich I really am--I know Jesus, I have a happy, healthy family and I have material possessions far above what those people could imagine. It begs the question--why did God see fit to bless me with the life I have? It is only His grace.

[Amy]

Oh, I think I'm so jealous! That is awesome!
I'll definitely pray for you and your fears. God is so big and I can't wait to see what happens!

[Karla ~ Looking Towards Heaven]

oh how wonderful!

do they have room for one more??

praying for you,
Karla

[Fresh Girl]

Shannon, I am so thrilled for you! You're right, you *will* be changed. I've only gone as far as Honduras (four times on mission trips) but oh how it changed the way I looked at the world and the people in it. You are in for the experience of your life, I just know it! Good for you for being open and willing to be changed. :)

[BJ]

Wow. Go God!

[Charlsie Swadley]

Oh my I am so excited for you!!! Missions is such a great experience!!! Go Shannon wooohooo.

[Terry]

What an awesome opportunity! I know I would feel much the same as you. A wise friend once told me something that I have to remind myself of alot. If I only do the things I can easily, comfortably do in my own strength--where is God in that. Congrats for listening to His leading and being willing to follow even when it's uncomfortable. I know what you gain from being obedient will be beyond what you can imagine. I can't wait to read all about it.

[Erin]

Wow, what a great blessing! I would be scared too but you know that everything will be wonderful because the whole thing was orestrated by God! I can't wait to hear all about the trip!

[Jen]

What an awesome opportunity for you, Shannon! I can assure you, you aren't alone in your feelings. I would probably have even uglier ones. It's shameful to realize how much I like to be in my comfort zone! I will be praying for you from now until you leave and throughout your trip! I cannot wait to hear about your experiences!!!

[Melissa]

Good luck! I will be waiting to see what you write.

[Not the Queen]

Good for you!

[katherine]

Just have to say this one more time -- wow. Can't wait to read about it. We'll be praying for safe travels. :)

[Someone Being Me]

That is an incredible opportunity. Obviously you are meant to go. You can't mess with divine intervention. I am so excited for you. We just started sponsoring a Hope Child through World Vision. I would jump at the chance to go and do something as life changing as that. I'll pray for your safe passage and that God will keep your eyes and heart open to see whatever it is he wants you to see over there. I promise the overseas travel isn't as awful as you are imagining. I flew Air France to the Ukraine from Houston a few years ago and the food was great and we each had our own screen to watch the inflight movies on that we could choose from. And I flew coach. Bring a couple of good books and you should be fine. I can't wait to read all about it.

[Stephanie]

I look forward to reading all about it.