Lovely Thoughts

Hello!

I went to bed last night with every intention of waking up in time for an 8 AM service at the church right on campus. My alarm was set for three different times and I went to bed earlier than usual. However, 7 AM rolled around and my body was not having it. The comfort of my bed got the best of me. Therefore, I slept through the service I was intending on going to and felt awful about it. Having had woken up at 8:30, I did have enough time to make it the 9 AM service, but my morning speed was that of a sloth. So instead, I listened to an online sermon from a church back in Eau Claire (a piece of home <3) and it talked about the gracious love that the Lord provides for us, even in our darkest moments. And with all the reflecting I have been doing, I found it very applicable to various aspects of my life. Sitting in my bed, cuddled up with a blanket, my Bible, a cup of coffee, my headphones, and listening to the pasture was so wonderful and made the morning just as great as it would have been had I gone to church.

I also was able to talk to my Chilean host family this morning. Even though it was a brief conversation with poor connection, hearing their voices made my heart so happy. They kept asking when I was coming back to Chile and that when I do, I have to stay with them. My response to that was, of course I would stay with them and I'll come back to visit when I have more money. Then I heard a five/six year-old to tell me to get more money (Emilia). A plane ticket there is so expensive. And I would buy one in a heart beat if I didn't have to buy my plane ticket home for Christmas or have any other expenses to worry about. But then I ask myself, will the money I spend on a ticket to South America really matter a few years down the road? The $2,000 will seem like nothing when I'm paying at least $50,000 in student loans. It is an impulsive but lovely thought. Hopefully one day soon I am able to go back and visit. Regardless of when I go back, it is heartwarming to know that I still have a place in their hearts and that they are so willing to put me up again for however long I would stay. Hearing the joy in Claudia's voice reminded me that no matter what life throws at you, there is so much to be happy about--family, friends, and of course, God. They all have beautiful hearts and would honestly do anything for anyone. I love that entire family to pieces and would do anything to give them all a hug right now.

I hope that you all had a morning (or afternoon) filled with lovely thoughts and happy things like I did. If not, do something for yourself that will bring you delight. And no matter what life throws at you, think of all the joys in your life and try to keep your heart happy! Sending much love as always.

- A