Farewell America

As I'm sitting here at my gate at the Miami Intl. airport waiting for my plane to depart for Bolivia, a million thoughts are rushing through my head. Excitement, of course, overrules all other emotions. Looking around, I see that most of the people waiting alongside me are native Bolivians and I realize that I am going to their country, their home. I will live among them, speak their language, learn with them, worship with them, laugh with them, eat their food...And for 12 months, I will be one of them. A little part of me is apprehensive and slightly scared because I have no idea what to expect. I have grown up in the most privileged country on the planet and quite frankly, have gotten used to the American way of life. Things are going to be changing. I know it's not always going to be easy, but I guess that's where trust in God comes in. I have been told that He doesn't give us a spirit of timidity but a spirit of boldness for Him. I know I will be tested. I am starting a new chapter in my life. I hope to gain many things on this journey. I want to learn Spanish. I want to discover my heritage. I want to explore South America. But most importantly, I want to find God for myself. Hopefully I'll learn a few things about myself along the way.