wherever it may lead: Encouragement

"Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing."

1 Thessalonians 5:11

E.N.C.O.U.R.A.G.E.M.E.N.T.

.........Perhaps one of the most vital traits of a Christian in fellowship with other believers.........

And I am thankful to say, my community of Christians (both in the US and abroad) have showered me with this very gift.

I couldn't have been more wrong in my perception of this Fall when we ended our summer of teams. I was convinced my days would be empty and life would be mundane without our sites filled with the energy our interns and students brought to the field. I was sure my social life would be nonexistent and that time would creep slowly by as I waited for Christmas to arrive and a visit to the states.

My view was quickly proven wrong as I started mentoring a young Dominican girl, joined a bible study, began an intensive Spanish class and a Creole class all while preparing for our nursing preceptorship program and continuing to see patients in various communities and missionaries.

As my schedule didn't allow for much free time and dengue slowly began to creep upon us (milder this year than last) along with daily tropical storms I realized I was sinking. And then came my encouragement.

*Through my friend Meghan, an emergency medicine PA from Delaware, as we traveled across the DR to our dear friend's wedding

*Through my friend Priya, an internal medicine PA from DC, who came to serve for my birthday

*Through my friend Elissa, a Cardio Thoracic surgery PA from Pittsburgh, who came to work with me at my clinics

*Through a team of 5 nurses, a PA and a student who left on Saturday after showering both me and my patients with love and support of the seemingly enormous task of delivering good health care in less than ideal circumstances

*And finally through my Mom and our close family friend Cindy Nasman who came to serve at our pre-school and special needs school last week

This week as I am once again solo (for 4 days) I realize how encouraged I am. I have finally had the time to reflect and evaluate my thoughts and have noticed a stark contrast from several months ago. And I know without a doubt that that difference in my thinking is the encouragement I have received from each of these incredible people and those at home who continue to remember me. Through words, hugs, laughter, medical supplies, fall goodies, candy, pumpkin coffee, etc!

I am so thankful that so many people see the vision and hope I have for the Haitians and Dominicans I serve; a vision I'm confident was given to me through our Father. I am so grateful for the renewed energy serving with American health care providers has given me as they each believed in my goals and desires for each of my patients. I am thankful that I am still tied to American medicine. And I am beyond grateful to share my life with those I love so very much.

And so, as Friday begins a new six week preceptorship of three nursing students and my work in the community continues, I am encouraged. And for that I give thanks.

a motorcycle burn, known as the "Dominican mark"
Moto accidents are the leading cause of death here, but
with gas at $7/gallon it is the cheapest form of transport