We're approaching our 4-year anniversary in Kapsowar. This past month has felt like a lot of lateral motion. Others might describe the movement as "running around like a chicken with it's head cut off" but I think "lateral motion" sounds slightly more refined. Generally, it feels like I'm doing a lot, but not ever getting any completed. Maybe this is a natural feeling at four years - it's the longest Kris and I have lived anywhere in our married lives. Maybe it's the upcoming end of Dominic's school year. Maybe I'm just distracted by our upcoming vacation (thanks to Allan for coming back to Kapsowar to work while we get away for a break!).
I wouldn't describe this feeling as burnout. It's more like being saturated - I'm at my maximum ability to do, care for, organize, teach, lead, report, plan or dream. Honestly, I'm not sure if that's a bad thing. It might just be an opportunity to recognize my limits, and to thank the MANY people in the MANY areas of my life who help me (and us) hold life together.
- Kris, for taking on more homeschool duties this year, and always covering home and childcare responsibilities whenever I'm stuck at work.
- Gladys, for caring for all the details of our house and home: cooking, cleaning, food prep, laundry, and of course watching out for Dominic during the day.
- Our team-mates on station and at the hospital, who watch out for each others' kids, help with preparing for and hosting volunteers, lead Bible studies, feed each other and visitors, manage all kinds of details and finances, are experts in so many different areas, and are just all-around good friends.
- The midwives at the hospital, who work so hard to care for our patients and who have become trusted co-workers.
- The hospital administration, who do their best in sometimes VERY difficult circumstances to lead the hospital wisely and to provide great healthcare to those in need.
- The short-term volunteers who come to Kapsowar to provide much needed relief and supplies, as well as their prayers, encouragement, and emotional support.
- The organizations which back each short- and long-term worker here, many of whom have become good friends over the years.
- Of course, SO importantly, our family and friends who stand behind us, without whom we would never have gotten here and we would never have the courage to stay.
Next month: Pictures of vacation! Stay tuned!
