Tuesday, July 24, 2012

Good Memories and Sad Goodbyes


I can’t believe that 2 years has narrowed down to less than 2 weeks!  There’s no way I can express everything I’m feeling right now, and there isn’t enough space in this update even if I tried.  But I will say this: My time here in Thailand has been unforgettable!  There are so many places, experiences, and people that will always be in my heart.  I’ve been blessed with many special memories that I will treasure for a lifetime.  God has taught me SO much and really stretched my faith during this journey.  I wouldn’t trade it for anything! 

This is a really bittersweet time for me.  While I’m beyond excited to go home and see my family and friends again, I can’t imagine saying good-bye to these people I’ve grown to love.  I wish I could fit all of them into my suitcases and take them home with me! (They’re small enough that they could fit!)  I’m sad to be leaving, but excited about what the future holds.  What does the future hold, you ask?  Well, that part isn’t so clear, yet.  I’ll be going back to Oklahoma for a while and reconnecting with people and readjusting to American culture.  During this time I’ll be working for a friend while praying for and expectantly awaiting God’s direction for what’s next.  I don’t know what it will be, but I know it will be good! 

Thank you to all who have prayed for me, encouraged me, and financially supported me during the last 2 years!  I can’t even begin to tell you what an important part you have played in my life!  Please continue to pray for me during the next couple weeks as I prepare to move home.  I will be very busy with work, finishing up “to-dos,” and saying good-byes.  I hope you will keep me in your prayers as I settle back into life in the states (some of you know that it is completely different from life here in Thailand!) and for God’s direction in this next part of my life. 

In Christ,
Kara

“Whoever serves me must follow me and where I am, my servant also will be.”  John 12:26

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Don’t forget to pray for NTIM!  I leave August 5th, and the Espy family leaves around the first of September.  Pastor Michael and his family will be the only missionaries left on the field for this ministry.  Our English language school, GLS, has reached its goal of 100 students, but soon we won’t have enough teachers to teach them!  As of right now, there are no prospective volunteers coming out.  Please pray for God to send more workers!