We are another day closer to Mexico and the reality of leaving in just a few days is hitting me. In one way, 3 weeks doesn't seem like very long, but in another way, it will be a good length.
As I talked to my teens, I realized that they are quite realistic about what to expect. The biggest challenge my girls anticipate is the language barrier, especially with the children. They realize how quickly the trip will fly by, and how different it will be returning home.
Nathan's most unsure about adjusting back to life here. I agree. We will just finish building a home the size of our living room, only to come back to the most commercialized and potentially selfish time of year--Christmas. This could be the worst time to go . . . or is it?
For years we've tried to shift our Christmas focus from getting to giving. However, with a very generous extended family, this has proven to be quite challenging.
It was 2 years ago that we finally felt a distinct shift. Most of the family had the opportunity to serve Christmas dinner to those who wouldn't have celebrated if it hasn't been for this special meal. Meals were served, gifts given, dishes washed, all with the focus on others. The family came home and enjoyed a late meal. It wasn't until much later that the gifts under the tree were even considered.
Last year, we again tried to focus on giving instead of getting and had our eyes opened to the fact that Christmas doesn't always hold warm memories for each person.
This year, we are hoping for an even more distinct shift. We are endeavouring to find ourself in a place of contentment with less (so challenging when living in a land of excess). This shift needs to take place first in our hearts, before it can be demonstrated outwardly, and Mexico may be the best jolt of reality our family will experience at this time.
Whatever the lessons are that God brings to our family, we know that there is a reason we are to go and that in this journey we will not come back unchanged.
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