Sometimes it feels like people expect us to be extra-ordinary. Or at least that's how they picture us.
Why?
Because we call Africa home? Because malaria is a constant, continual threat? Because there's a war going on not too many miles upriver and we drive through police checks several times each day as we go in and out of our home? Because we eat fresh mangoes and papayas on a regular basis while we raise pigeons and goats? Because we vacationed in an African wild game preserve and were charged by a hippo?
We aren't. Extra-ordinary, that is.
In fact, most of the time we feel downright ordinary.
Because we grocery shop - just like you. Because we drive cars to get where we want to go - just like you. Because we like to hang out with friends at the pool and sip ice tea - just like many of you. Because Saturday morning croissants and coffee with a friend at the local coffee shop are a real treat for us - just as they would be for you. Because when the thermometer rises above 100', we sweat and complain - just like you would if you were here.
We do know it is a privilege to live here... to serve in this place... to work with some amazing folks from literally all over the globe... to call this part of Africa home for this season...
But we're just ordinary folks, privileged to serve a "supercalifragilisticexpialidocious" extra-ordinary God.
Just like you.
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Wanna hop right on into the fray??? After a two week break, I've hopped right back in, linking up with Lisa-Jo @ Gypsy Mama.
"Set your timer, clear your head, for five minutes of free writing without worrying about getting it right.
1. Write for 5 minutes flat – no editing, no over thinking, no backtracking.
2. Link back here and invite others to join in.
3. And then absolutely, no ifs, ands or buts about it, you need to visit the person who linked up before you & encourage them in their comments. Seriously. That is, like, the rule. And the fun. And the heart of this community..."
Hope to see you there!
Stopping by from 5MF...I love that picture. All those ordinary kids living it up in an extraordinary fashion! Even though you might be in Africa doing what could be viewed as extraordinary, we all know that where ever you go, there you are....ordinary (or extra-) as you make it. Have a great Friday!!
ReplyDeletethanks for stopping by - i really like that particular photo as well!
DeleteI always love this peek into your life in Africa, and how God has uniquely and extra-ordinarily gifted you and your family for life there...Happy Friday, Richelle :)
ReplyDeletethank you! i've missed the last couple of 5mf... so it was good to be back this week and see what others were writing... here from some of my 5mf friends. :-)
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