Convenient Geography

One way cool thing about Europe that I am discovering is that it is so easy to visit other countries. In the states, specifically Michigan, it takes a minimum two hours just to drive out of the state and that’s the short way. It would take ten to thirteen hours to drive out via the Upper Peninsula to Wisconsin. For many of my European friends this distance is inconceivable! For them to drive a few hours north or south for that matter they will find themselves in a completely different country! I am beginning to enjoy this proximity as I have just arrived home from a two week trip where I set foot in three different countries barely paying over 200 dollars forthe plane tickets. First, for a rock bottom price of 40 dollars, I hopped on a direct flight to Geneva, Switzerland where I spent a few days catching up with my dear friend Thais, whom I had met at Fuller Seminary. She just recently moved back home to Switzerland to work in her home church. She and I had enjoyed a lovely few days where gallivanted around her old stomping grounds together. We made our way one day into the infamous Swiss Alps that truly live up to their reputation as the peaks tower through and pierce the clouds and as the snow covered slopes are sprinkled with typical Swiss Chalets. Another day, we crossed the border into France to enjoy a French village bordered by an alpine lake. We wandered through the quaint town crossing bridges over the channels that seemed to run all throughout the city. I was also able to enjoy a rich fondue with her and her parents. It was so great to reconnect with her, but I had to say goodbye again in order to participate in the Field Orientation that is mandatory for all first year missionaries working with Christian Associates International. After another quick flight I found myself in Brussels, Belgium, the location of the Field Orientation. It lasted about ten days, all of which were spent in a missionary hostel run by an adorable South African couple. Altogether there were four of us who were participating in the FO. We spent our days hearing different speakers talk about various topics such as: culture shock, team conflict, support raising and sustaining, church planting, individual gifts and strengths and even practical issues of making a new life in foreign country. I found all of the topics very helpful and practical and was once again reminded why I chose to work with Christian Associates. My fellow FOer’s and I were also able to take some time to explore Brussels. We tasted many delectable Belgian chocolates, a couple Belgian waffles and even sampled some of the beer. Over all it was a great trip, being able to see more of Europe, reconnecting with old friends as well as making several new friends that I hope will continue to walk with me as I adjust more fully to living in Portugal. Europe is really a unique place in that these countries are so conveniently located closely together, and I am blessed to be reaping the benefits of said geography.