I’ve been sitting in front of my computer for a long time,
just staring at the screen, not sure what to write. I feel at a loss for words.
The past two weeks have been some of the most ridiculous and
crazy weeks of my life, definitely of this trip. If you haven’t yet heard, one
of our team members, Sarah, died tragically in a car accident on April 5. Her
memorial service was held on her birthday, April 8, and I left for the Garden Route with
my parents the following morning. It was really nice being with them and having
the time to process with someone who knows me so well.
Three of my teammates went home a few days later. We’re now
down to 9 out of the original 15. The rest of the team then left for Cape Town to debrief and
relax and just be with each other during these stressful times. I got to meet
up with them for one evening, but it wasn’t enough. We really needed each other
during that time and I hated being separated from them.
We were finally back together on Saturday. There has been so
much turmoil and unrest in our team. No one is to blame, things just happen. I’ve
felt really uneasy and had no rest trying to figure out what’s best for all of
us. Do we go or do we stay? Do we have anything left to give to our ministries?
Do we have anything left to give each other?
We’ve been tossing these ideas back and forth for two weeks.
As a team we decided that the best thing for us is to come
home early. I’m not sure if this is a shock to some, but it’s definitely the
right thing. I’m going to miss everyone so much! My team has become like family
to each other. I love each one so much, and I’m so scared I’ll never see them
again.
I’m not going to share exactly when I’m coming home. Life
has been so stressful and I just need some downtime to relax and to regroup. I
promise I’ll contact everyone when I’m ready.
This might be my last blog from South Africa until I return in June.
Thank you EVERYONE for your prayers and your constant
support. I love each one of you.
Love keeps us together.
Leah.
