As of this past Tuesday, Bob and Joyce have been back in Honduras. While in the States, they worked, and worked, and worked. In other words, they didn't get much time to just enjoy each other's company or to relax (which is what they needed to do). They were repairing the house and fixing it up so they could rent it out. They did get to catch up a little bit with some of their friends in the States and they really loved those opportunities. They were truly homesick....and still are. They could've easily stayed there but because they love Christ...they continue to do what He told them to do even if they are fed up with the way the things are in this country, or the fact that they are tired (physically and mentally). Pray that one day...they will be able to just have time together.
Jay and Jen were such a great help for me. In many ways. They were encouragers, examples, and much more. They ministered to me in many ways they will never know. For me, it was hard to see them go. From the very beginning, they supported me and believed in me even when some of those close to me thought I was crazy. I knew what God told me to do and they believed me. In terms of parenting, what really learned from them was the process of discipline. Before, I would just address the situation then carry out the punishment. Now, I've realized the importance of showing love during the act of punishing and the restoration after the punishment is carried out. I also learned how I could improve my devotions with the children when I do conduct them in the mornings.
Something else that I've learned is the fact that the kid's do not view me as a figure of authority but as a big brother. That is in one way very heart-warming (because it shows that I have won their hearts finally), but in another frustrating (especially when it comes to the oldest child) because they think they can just run over me and do what they please or, because it is not from Bob's mouth (gospel to their ears) they do not necessarily have to obey. Those two weeks were by no means difficult for me physically because Bob and Joyce had taken care of alot of things prior to leaving and had me put some things off until their return. It was however, very hard for me mentally and emotionally. I probably would have gone crazy if I did not have the Sipes here with me. I now have a TON of respect for the single mothers (or fathers) that singlehandedly raise children. It is hard and it just tears you down in ways you never thought it would.
The last couple of weeks, I have found myself missing my friends, family, and church back in Tellico. I miss playing college football with Brandon, laughing so hard with Tim and Katie that I couldn't breath, Hanging out with Patrick and Paige, hearing Chris' corney jokes, throwing the football with Josh after church, talking with Jonny, seeing Richard, hearing Danielle's laugh, my mom, my dad....and the words "I Love You". I hear them from Alba and everytime I do it makes my day brighter....but sometimes, it is hard saying those words and not hearing "I Love You Too" from the children. I pray one day, that I can hear those words come from their mouths. I know they love me (their actions show it) but how much sweeter would it be if it came from their mouths! :)
Finally, I just want to thank all of you. It has been almost a year now and I have been here all because of YOU. There is so much more I want to say but this update is long enough. HAHA.
Thank you all for making me a better man. Because of you praying for me and supporting me...I am experiencing things both spiritually and physically that God is using to grow me into the man He wants me to be.
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