Back in Alice Springs, as the blisters healed and the memories of (what seemed at the time) near-death experiences began to fade, we continued to explore options for returning to Nepal for long service leave - in 2015 - three years away! Back then, three years seemed like a lifetime, looking back now, we wonder where that time has gone.
There were many lengthy discussions with the INF office in Sydney, with INF Program Managers and with Phil & Jenny, and many of our friends praying with and for us. It seemed there were plenty of opportunities for us both - just not in the same place! Not quite what we had in mind. We submitted resumes and application forms, and waited. Yes, there's something for you - we're just not sure what or where. So we waited some more. And prayed. And waited.
There were many lengthy discussions with the INF office in Sydney, with INF Program Managers and with Phil & Jenny, and many of our friends praying with and for us. It seemed there were plenty of opportunities for us both - just not in the same place! Not quite what we had in mind. We submitted resumes and application forms, and waited. Yes, there's something for you - we're just not sure what or where. So we waited some more. And prayed. And waited.
We joined with a group of like minded people in Adelaide for a weekend of preparation and training; learning about the challenges of living and working as "short-termers" in a cross-cultural setting. We learnt about cross-cultural communication, sharing our faith, culture stress, spiritual warfare as well as practical packing tips and health advice. It was a great opportunity to build a supportive network as we all set off on our short term mission trips around the world. We're grateful to the facilitators for their time and energy in helping us prepare well. |
Read more about the MIST course and see what our friends Rohan & Alex had to say about their experiences. If you're considering a short-term trip, include this in your preparation - it'll be the best thing you did.
Eight weeks to departure, and a picture emerges as to what we might be doing - and the need fits our skills perfectly. For Sue - training in word-processing, typing and report writing and for Rob - training in small engines, maintenance and general mechanical repairs. We get to be based in Nepalgunj with our friends, and get to travel extensively through the mid-west region, get to spend time in language study with friends and even have time for trekking the Annapurnas.
Eight weeks to departure, and a picture emerges as to what we might be doing - and the need fits our skills perfectly. For Sue - training in word-processing, typing and report writing and for Rob - training in small engines, maintenance and general mechanical repairs. We get to be based in Nepalgunj with our friends, and get to travel extensively through the mid-west region, get to spend time in language study with friends and even have time for trekking the Annapurnas.
"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding:
in all your ways submit to him, and he will direct your paths."
Proverbs 3:5,6
in all your ways submit to him, and he will direct your paths."
Proverbs 3:5,6