For some time I've felt regret and a little shame that I've lost that inner calm, I suppose in a way forgotten what I learned here in the DR the last time. With the mad busyness that has been my life lately, where is that gentle patience, that discipline, that renewed sense of purpose I had 2 years ago?
It is the first quiet time and how different it is from the last time (for me)! It seems I have learned what it is to find peace and joy in whatever circumstance, at least I don't have to "relearn" that. Last time I could barely concentrate, as I was so frustrated and distracted by the heat and humidity and especially the bugs. I suppose it's one thing to know that it is possible and to be able to overcome physical distractions and concentrate on God and His word, but it's yet another to discipline myself and do it regularly. I must hush for a while in order to get to this place, and I simply don't quiet down easily or often enough.
I slept pretty well last night even though, unfortunately Dale did not (again). At least he didn't let it get him down, as he even helped Carmen with the dishes :)
Breakfast was delicious as always - boiled eggs, little croissant-like bread, fruit and coffee. Jeff slept pretty well, which surprised me, as he can't sleep on just any mattress and these are pretty rough!
The kids came for a summer class this morning, even if it was only a few minutes before their class. They have a big exam they have to pass to graduate high school and for college in a week. It was so good to see everyone- Nataniel, Jeffrey, Ranger, Cristopher, Angel, Jailinne, Graisy, Nene y Ariel. Hopefully they come up more often! Also, Cristo and Enyer came from the Children's Home :)
We are split into 4 groups- I'm in the D group with Clayton Whitbeck, Garrett Derengowski, Emily Kaissling and Trisha Mellor. I think it's going to be a great group!
Today I just opened to Jeremiah 31 and read. Wow, it was very touching- God's everlasting love for me never fails (just like Israel) - she strayed and was disciplined and brought back. I long to come back and be disciplined, to experience His love again at a deeper level. He is not angry with me, rather He is compassionate, comforting and longs to draw me near, which is right where I yearn to be.
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