The air is getting cooler in Boone, autumn is in the air. I can sleep at night now because it's not too hot. Leaves are slowly starting to litter the ground. Best time of the year to play golf. Football season just kicked off. My sister and nephew's birthdays are coming up. My brother's birthday. My birthday. Horror movie marathons. Pumpkin Pie. Thanksgiving.
Three days from now, my summer will be extended by three months. I will be joining my friend Billy and his dad on a trip to Southern Sudan. I will leave Charlotte on Monday and arrive in Entebbe, Uganda sometime late Tuesday. From there, we will fly into Sudan and eventually stop in the village Wadupe. We are going to this place in the name of love, the name of God. Our hope is that while we are there the village will be able to construct classrooms for their children (they currently have a couple structures that have nearly collapsed and the younger children meet under mango trees). My personal role in the village will be to build relationships with the people, assist Billy, teach them freedom through art, and allow God to do his thing. I visited Wadupe last year with no expectations and could write a book about my two month stay with stories that were incredible blessings from God.
In late October South Sudan's rainy season turns to a dry season. High temps around 96. There is no pie and they do not watch college gameday.
Last summer in Wadupe I experienced love like I never have before. This season I will miss all of the things that come with fall in Boone. I am missing one season of my life in the states to experience a season of love with the people of Wadupe. And that is worth it.
Derrick, so many prayers will go with you as you travel again to Sudan. Remember everything - write it, draw it, photograph it, etch it on your heart. People will want to hear your stories. God bless your journey. We love you.
ReplyDeleteLove, Mary (Maggie's Mom)