Gratitude

Pre-departure arrangements are getting feverish. As I chip away at my professional and personal obligations, I am struck by the kindnesses of friends, families, and even (recent) strangers. Dear friends Bill and Chris have just presented me with $50 to put toward my expenses, as has like-a-sister Ann. Real sister Julie sends me a never-needs-batteries flashlight and asks if I'll be riding a donkey to get to where I'm going. Chrissy is a constant source of encouragement. My folks give me money for Christmas because they knew I'd need extra funds for my trip. Pat, my favorite quilt-store buddy, presents me with a baby quilt her mother made for me to take to the babies of Peru! A kind person named Lori responds to my first post with encouragement and caring. Elissa's support is unspoken. Emily understands that this journey is necessary as part of my figuring out who I am. Ms. T just keeps giving and giving--a new iPod just the most recent and tangible evidence--even though my leaving for so long is almost unfathomable. I am profoundly grateful.