things i’ve learned from europe

i ventured to a new place

one i found to be warm and welcoming

one of great hospitality and gentle community

one that seemed to live life in whispers of sweetness

switzerland captured my heart

and not just because of the awe in the alps

but because it felt like a warm embrace

i learned what it looks like to slow down

to appreciate my Sundays

to linger with those around me

i was shown what it looks like to invite others into our raw rhythms of life

how to invite others into a period of rest

i left refreshed and lifted up

simply because of its simplicity

in germany i learned its about the friends we make along the way

i learned that who we are as people is far more valuable than what we do

i was reminded of how much i value long conversations with dear friends

and the Lord’s grace showed me it wasn’t about my agenda, but about sitting with Him in every moment of every day

germany didn’t look like i expected, but i was quick to rejoice in the unexpected, because it was so much richer than what my plans could offer

amsterdam felt like a hug from home

i fell back into normalcy with people who have become family across the ocean

i was reminded over and over again of the beauty of the great commission

the importance of community

the hardship of goodbyes

and that at the end it’s all worth it

the Lord gently told me it’s not about me

and that there’s relief in that   

my sweet sunshine in human form has taught me the importance of prayer

it’s because of her that i stop in the middle of conversations to check in with God, to align myself with His thoughts as i interact with the world

she’s taught me to be excited for the little sparks of joy from the Lord, and how to find that in every moment

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my sophie girl always reminds me that when the Lord says to go, we obey and that he is more than worthy of that “yes”

she reminds me of our call, the Lord’s power to equip, and never fails to point me back to my “why”

she reminds me of the joy found in a morning cup of tea and the simple joys of this life

and she reminds me that there’s always a hug waiting for me on the other side of the world

i just really praise the Lord for her life

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the birdies reminded me of where home really is, that it cannot be a place outside of the Lord

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noel’s heart has taught me of deep compassion and kindness

how to listen in a way that makes others feel seen

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and my dear faith that i went on this whole adventure with

has taught me of the depths of patient, steadfast love

of true and pure friendship

and for that, im oh so thankful