Thursday, February 19, 2015

5 More Days!



In less than a week I'll be in Armenia, as part of a World Vision "Vision Trip."

We received our itinerary yesterday, and I'm both excited and apprehensive about what's ahead. Most of our time will be spent meeting families in their homes and seeing needs first-hand. The trip is in the winter so that we will be able to witness the harsh conditions so many Armenians endure during the coldest months.

I'll be meeting real people with real stories, and sharing those stories with you here and on Facebook.

In my experience, once you see something and know something, you can't go back to a place of unknowing. This is usually good, but rarely easy. For example, in my life, I've gained the unsought knowledge of how fleeting life is. I have seen what our family hoped for be stripped away in seconds, and I simply can't go back to a my prior place of unawareness.

When I travel places where life is much different than my own, I also gain perspective or knowing. It is often humbling and sometimes overwhelming, especially when needs are so great. It's daunting. I'm grateful there are organizations like World Vision who are working in big and small ways to alleviate suffering around the globe. And the beautiful thing is we are invited to share in that.

It is my greatest hope that my heart will be open to the people I meet and that as I share my experience, more children will be sponsored through World Vision.

Jack's 16th (gulp) birthday with be shortly after I return from the trip. For many of you, Jack's story is what drew you to this blog for the first time. Wouldn't it be wonderful if children get sponsored as a result of this blog, right in time for his birthday?

10 comments:

Anonymous said...

I have been sponsoring a boy from Armenia through WV for the past 10 years. He is 15 now. I have a real heart for that place. Maybe you'll even meet him!

Debby@Just Breathe said...

Have a wonderful trip and God Bless you.

Unknown said...

Have a great trip Anna. Will pray for a wonderful experience for you.

claire plante said...

Anna,

I will be thinking of you and sending love and prayers your way. I look forward to hearing your thoughts and perspectives and admire your giving heart and spirit.

Godspeed, my beautiful friend!

Lots of Love,
Claire

Jamie Miles said...

Look forward to your journey Anna. It will be incredible.

Unknown said...

I cannot wait to read along about this experience.What a great group you get to travel with and an amazing experience that is sure to change your life.

Unknown said...

What an amazing journey you are going to take. Can't wait to hear about it.

OSMA said...

I think I deleted my first message so here's another try: I'm SOOO excited for you and this trip of a lifetime. Yes, doors will open for those who need it. And it's perfect that it will happen for Jack's 16th birthday. Love, love, love!

Anonymous said...

What a wonderful way to honor your beautiful boy. I'm in.....have a safe trip and can't wait to hear all about it. Many prayers you as you travel on this journey.

Alison said...

I hope you'll have a wonderful trip, my friend. xoxo