Final Thoughts

Now that we're back home and sleeping again in our big warm bed, I'm having a hard time learning any lessons from the trip.  It's hard to bring what you have seen in such an impoverished culture and marry that with our excessive, abundant lifestyle here.  However, here's what I do know for sure:

1. I really, really like my life.

2. I have a new appreciation for those people that enter a religious life.  I think that Jared & I were always super excited and supportive about SOMEONE ELSE'S KID going into the religious life, but I'm not sure we would have been thrilled if Luke & Grace wanted to.  That has completely changed.  These men and woman are doing so much good in the world and God could use someone like Luke or Grace.

3.  The hard work and effort put in to organizing and planning for these missions goes mostly unnoticed.  The group of people in Ayaviri worked very, very hard to organize this event locally.  Then all the gringos swing in and get all the appreciation.  Also, Ken & Dede work so, so hard for many months to be travel agents, fundraisers, project managers, etc.  And then Jared & I swoop in and they can't stop thanking US for coming.  So to all those people, your hard work has not gone unnoticed by us.  Good job.

Several people have asked since we're back in town if we are going to go back next year.  (In addition to Bishop Kay who brought it up several times).  The truth is, I'm not sure I can.  It wasn't an easy trip.  However, if I had to go back for the first time again, I would say absolutely.  I have not doubt that was one of the best things Jared & I could have done for our marriage and for our family.  If you're considering going, I would ask you to pray about it and feel free to contact Jared or me.  There is no doubt these people need our help, and we need theirs.