saying good-bye

Hi there,
I am sitting in the Japan airport, waiting for the final boarding of this trip. It has been an interesting few days, from the time that I left Australia. I have finally had the experience of having my luggage ripped and 'pilfered' and the attendant work of reporting it while trying to leave the country. Now this was interesting! This is a side of flying that is new to me! but I have to say - it does not discourage my love for travel.

Of much more importance, has been the time of coming back to Manila, de-briefing and retreating with Amanda, and then leaving. It is true - that in letting go of one thing, you embrace another. So, my heart is headed home to those I love, even as I leave this country and people that I love. It is a gift to realize that love can be with both of these parts - leaving and embracing/embracing and leaving - at the same time. Then there is no fear of being lost in chaos or in the void of 'between'.

So my second time in manila was about this. Amanda found a lovely place that belonged to a friend - the 20th floor of a building that had nothing between it and the ocean. Every room had a view of empty land - scrub and tall grasses - the city off to one side, with planes leaving manila off to the other side, and in front, the long view of the waters of the ocean. I had to catch myself - it was tempting to stop in mid-sentence and begin gazing out the window!! The view captured all my thoughts and was spacious enough for all of our prayers together. We prayed - for the church, for each other, for the future, and our prayers were shot through with thanksgiving, even as we wept. How can one not weep, when you realize both the goodness of God, and are invited to move deeper in trusting the hope that has been given in the midst of suffering?

For sure, the prayer is continuing, rising up in us and making way for God's continued labor.

And, for the last time, from a very great distance away, I woke each morning to hear a rooster crow!! Kind of a parting gift, I think.

Lastly, I have just experienced my first pedicure in an airport!! Just one more reason to love travel!!!
I have heard the call - it is time to board. As I leave, and return, I am grateful for each of you.
Love you much,
Peace,
Mary