Go here for more info: ericandbeth.us
Thank you all for your continued encouragement and support!
Sunday, August 26, 2012
Hey friends!
Check out what I'm up to now that I'm working full-time with Praying Pelican Missions.
Go here for more info: ericandbeth.us
Thank you all for your continued encouragement and support!
Go here for more info: ericandbeth.us
Thank you all for your continued encouragement and support!
Tuesday, May 22, 2012
Life as of Late.
I know, I know.. I've put this post off for far too long now. But in all honesty, the thought of even writing a post has seemed overwhelming as of late.
So what's new? Well, I'm home for starters! At the end of April, Marlo and I traveled to Minneapolis, MN for our annual training weekend with Praying Pelican Missions. It was so wonderful to have those few days to transition back into American life. It was all so overwhelming... the food, technology, lack of people, cars... goats... But quite a few of our Haitian friends were at the meeting so it was priceless to have them there to help us cross the culture bridge back into American-reality.
I got to see many of my Pelican friends and enjoy some incredible emotional de-briefing time talking with them and some much needed physical rest. I love our Pelican family. It's an incredible feeling to work with and serve alongside people who share your heart and passion for missions. To be in a room with people who "get" you. There's no need for long explanations as to why missions is important to you or how it has changed your life.. because everyone is in the same boat. We are serving and doing what we love, being the bridge between cultures and pointing all peoples to the feet of the cross of Jesus through a little hard work, an abundance of love and physical acts of service.
After the meetings Eric and I hopped in the car and drove the 13 hours back home to good ole Cave City.
I had only been in the house long enough to see the freshly-baked, welcome home brownies sitting on the counter (thanks mom!) when I heard a chorus of "The Lion Sleeps Tonight" outside. There is only one thing those Wimoweh's ever mean, my friends!! Sure enough, they were outside my door, serenading me with their beautiful voices. I shot out of the house into a mass frenzy of tears and hugs. Oh, how I missed them!
After that night.. life has pretty much settled into our normal crazy schedule.
I feel as if I've not stopped talking about Haiti. I live and breathe all things Haiti. I spend my days advocating for Haiti and orphans all across the globe and working to bridge the culture gap between my two homes.
It is incredible how much my short time there has effected my entire life.
I am learning new things about myself everyday. Beliefs I have, things I want in life, etc.
All of this to say, its good to be home.
But when do we leave again?
So what's new? Well, I'm home for starters! At the end of April, Marlo and I traveled to Minneapolis, MN for our annual training weekend with Praying Pelican Missions. It was so wonderful to have those few days to transition back into American life. It was all so overwhelming... the food, technology, lack of people, cars... goats... But quite a few of our Haitian friends were at the meeting so it was priceless to have them there to help us cross the culture bridge back into American-reality.
I got to see many of my Pelican friends and enjoy some incredible emotional de-briefing time talking with them and some much needed physical rest. I love our Pelican family. It's an incredible feeling to work with and serve alongside people who share your heart and passion for missions. To be in a room with people who "get" you. There's no need for long explanations as to why missions is important to you or how it has changed your life.. because everyone is in the same boat. We are serving and doing what we love, being the bridge between cultures and pointing all peoples to the feet of the cross of Jesus through a little hard work, an abundance of love and physical acts of service.
After the meetings Eric and I hopped in the car and drove the 13 hours back home to good ole Cave City.
I had only been in the house long enough to see the freshly-baked, welcome home brownies sitting on the counter (thanks mom!) when I heard a chorus of "The Lion Sleeps Tonight" outside. There is only one thing those Wimoweh's ever mean, my friends!! Sure enough, they were outside my door, serenading me with their beautiful voices. I shot out of the house into a mass frenzy of tears and hugs. Oh, how I missed them!
After that night.. life has pretty much settled into our normal crazy schedule.
I feel as if I've not stopped talking about Haiti. I live and breathe all things Haiti. I spend my days advocating for Haiti and orphans all across the globe and working to bridge the culture gap between my two homes.
It is incredible how much my short time there has effected my entire life.
I am learning new things about myself everyday. Beliefs I have, things I want in life, etc.
All of this to say, its good to be home.
But when do we leave again?
Thursday, April 26, 2012
De-briefing = Rambling.. right?
My life has changed radically in the past 4 months.
This whole adventure started in a long car drive with Eric. We were heading back to Ladyville, Belize from San Ignacio, Belize (Further Reading Here) after dropping some staff off in that area last summer. I received an email from PPM's president about a possible need for workers in an orphanage. Immediately, I felt the tug of the Lord on my heart, unlike anything I've ever felt before. Eric and I talked about it for almost the whole ride.. and decided to begin bathing the decision to pursue it further, in prayer.
I remember being so scared at that moment. So uncertain of my future and where the Lord would lead. I remember being so focused and intent on figuring out what parts of my desire to come to Haiti were fleshly and what was really a calling from Christ.
Many people don't believe women can be called by Christ to a purpose. I was met with quite a bit of opposition when I decided to come. Many people do not share my values, passion and core beliefs and I understand that. But I guess, I've stayed silent for a long time and I feel like I need to speak my part.
I believe that no part of my own doing brought me to this country. Well, my two feet walked on and off of the plane, sure. But no amount of potential love, can in reality, out-weigh the separation from my husband, friends and family when you look at things in a physical, non-spiritual sense. I don't believe that Christ would have allowed me to do this if it was not His will. Mainly because I could not have made it through without His guidance and His hand in everything. I know for a fact that this time was indeed a call on my life. The Lord had a perfect plan for me here.. I still am unaware of all of the reasons why, but I know He knows.. and that is all that matters.
The past four months have been a roller-coaster of events. I have experienced pain more far reaching and intense than anything I have ever felt. I have seen things and been put in situations I never expected. I've missed my husband more than I ever have in my life and have cried more tears than I ever thought possible. But what can I take away? What are the lessons learned? After everything settles down, who will I be? How will I have changed?
I believe I will be me, only.. different. I've learned to stand up tall for what I believe in, for who I am. I've learned that its okay to disagree and argue with people... if it is in support of good and I feel at peace with God. I've learned to act when I hear His voice. I've learned that people and situations that used to worry me, contain no weight in the Everlasting. I've learned that I am a spiritual force to be reckoned with. I am a strong, powerful and beautiful servant of the most high God. I am comfortable with who God made me to be, all my many flaws included. I've learned to declare these facts to Christ daily as I take up my place in this world.
In Arkansas, I feel as if the "southern" lifestyle, although an integral part of who I am, often draws the line between strong and proud as very blurry. But these two are completely separate. Thankfully I've had many incredible examples in my life who showed me (and still do) how humility and strength go hand in hand. The primary example of this being my father. The humility of mind and strength of soul I've watched him portray in my life is what I yearn to mimic. Funny I married Eric, right? He's the exact same kind of man. I've always told Eric that he portrays the image of Christ better than anyone I know. Although he would be quick to disagree, I know "its just his way" as my boys here would say. Christ was humble but never wavered in His beliefs. His strength during His short time here on earth, screams volumes about His character. This is the character I've come to desire.
I've learned to be strong in who I am, in who God plans for me to become.
I've learned that my family is incredible. We have our flaws, our mistakes, our fights and our problems just like anyone else... but I know if the world turns against me, they will be there.
I've learned my friends love me, far more than I thought. I am so thankful for them.
I've learned that my husband is a rock and our marriage is just as solid as I thought it to be. This all due to Christ and His faithfulness, of course.
I've learned I have a lot of love in me. And a lot of love left to give.
I've learned that I love these 40 boys with my whole heart. It's a real love, it's not simple to leave.
I've learned I have a lot to learn still yet.
But above all, I've learned (more) that when I listen to Christ's calling on my life, no matter how scary or radical.. He will always deliver me "even unto glory.." He will make a way. He will uphold me. He will be my shelter, peace, sustenance and protector. Not just in the small things, but in the big things too! My faith is more physical now. I feel Him in the wind, I am more aware of His constant involvement in my life.
Thank You, Lord for allowing me this time in Haiti. Thank You for all the lessons You have taught and will continue to teach me. Help me make the changes to myself as You see fit. Let me be like You! I am in love with You. You are my Prophet, Priest and King. My Confidant, Peace and Father.
I am Yours.
This whole adventure started in a long car drive with Eric. We were heading back to Ladyville, Belize from San Ignacio, Belize (Further Reading Here) after dropping some staff off in that area last summer. I received an email from PPM's president about a possible need for workers in an orphanage. Immediately, I felt the tug of the Lord on my heart, unlike anything I've ever felt before. Eric and I talked about it for almost the whole ride.. and decided to begin bathing the decision to pursue it further, in prayer.
I remember being so scared at that moment. So uncertain of my future and where the Lord would lead. I remember being so focused and intent on figuring out what parts of my desire to come to Haiti were fleshly and what was really a calling from Christ.
Many people don't believe women can be called by Christ to a purpose. I was met with quite a bit of opposition when I decided to come. Many people do not share my values, passion and core beliefs and I understand that. But I guess, I've stayed silent for a long time and I feel like I need to speak my part.
I believe that no part of my own doing brought me to this country. Well, my two feet walked on and off of the plane, sure. But no amount of potential love, can in reality, out-weigh the separation from my husband, friends and family when you look at things in a physical, non-spiritual sense. I don't believe that Christ would have allowed me to do this if it was not His will. Mainly because I could not have made it through without His guidance and His hand in everything. I know for a fact that this time was indeed a call on my life. The Lord had a perfect plan for me here.. I still am unaware of all of the reasons why, but I know He knows.. and that is all that matters.
The past four months have been a roller-coaster of events. I have experienced pain more far reaching and intense than anything I have ever felt. I have seen things and been put in situations I never expected. I've missed my husband more than I ever have in my life and have cried more tears than I ever thought possible. But what can I take away? What are the lessons learned? After everything settles down, who will I be? How will I have changed?
I believe I will be me, only.. different. I've learned to stand up tall for what I believe in, for who I am. I've learned that its okay to disagree and argue with people... if it is in support of good and I feel at peace with God. I've learned to act when I hear His voice. I've learned that people and situations that used to worry me, contain no weight in the Everlasting. I've learned that I am a spiritual force to be reckoned with. I am a strong, powerful and beautiful servant of the most high God. I am comfortable with who God made me to be, all my many flaws included. I've learned to declare these facts to Christ daily as I take up my place in this world.
In Arkansas, I feel as if the "southern" lifestyle, although an integral part of who I am, often draws the line between strong and proud as very blurry. But these two are completely separate. Thankfully I've had many incredible examples in my life who showed me (and still do) how humility and strength go hand in hand. The primary example of this being my father. The humility of mind and strength of soul I've watched him portray in my life is what I yearn to mimic. Funny I married Eric, right? He's the exact same kind of man. I've always told Eric that he portrays the image of Christ better than anyone I know. Although he would be quick to disagree, I know "its just his way" as my boys here would say. Christ was humble but never wavered in His beliefs. His strength during His short time here on earth, screams volumes about His character. This is the character I've come to desire.
I've learned to be strong in who I am, in who God plans for me to become.
I've learned that my family is incredible. We have our flaws, our mistakes, our fights and our problems just like anyone else... but I know if the world turns against me, they will be there.
I've learned my friends love me, far more than I thought. I am so thankful for them.
I've learned that my husband is a rock and our marriage is just as solid as I thought it to be. This all due to Christ and His faithfulness, of course.
I've learned I have a lot of love in me. And a lot of love left to give.
I've learned that I love these 40 boys with my whole heart. It's a real love, it's not simple to leave.
I've learned I have a lot to learn still yet.
But above all, I've learned (more) that when I listen to Christ's calling on my life, no matter how scary or radical.. He will always deliver me "even unto glory.." He will make a way. He will uphold me. He will be my shelter, peace, sustenance and protector. Not just in the small things, but in the big things too! My faith is more physical now. I feel Him in the wind, I am more aware of His constant involvement in my life.
Thank You, Lord for allowing me this time in Haiti. Thank You for all the lessons You have taught and will continue to teach me. Help me make the changes to myself as You see fit. Let me be like You! I am in love with You. You are my Prophet, Priest and King. My Confidant, Peace and Father.
I am Yours.
Wednesday, April 25, 2012
Lasting Impressions
So today was our leaving day..
We decided to give the boys a few things to remember us by and keep them occupied for the rest of the day. So...
We made them the longest treasure hunt EVER. We left them a video, Bible passages from 1 Thessalonians and a Bible Promise book for prayer time.
Then we made them up some goody-bags complete with their own picture of us, candy, school stuff and personalized Bible verses. I also wrote a small note to each boy.
Then we covered their rooms in toilet paper! It was so much fun. They are going to freak!
Then we left them a small note on our door for them to look at while we are gone.
Hopefully it will make a lasting impression. I love them so much.
We decided to give the boys a few things to remember us by and keep them occupied for the rest of the day. So...
We made them the longest treasure hunt EVER. We left them a video, Bible passages from 1 Thessalonians and a Bible Promise book for prayer time.
Then we made them up some goody-bags complete with their own picture of us, candy, school stuff and personalized Bible verses. I also wrote a small note to each boy.
Then we covered their rooms in toilet paper! It was so much fun. They are going to freak!
Then we left them a small note on our door for them to look at while we are gone.
Hopefully it will make a lasting impression. I love them so much.
Party at the HCO!
So last night was our "See You Later" party for us and the boys. We had such a wonderful time!
We had a crazy day of hospital runs, cleaning, packing and cooking.. all the while goofing off with our boys and setting up for the party.
The party started no-where near on time and we ended up eating at about 8:00, but a good time was had by all!
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| Rachou and Milton, our chefs for the night |
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| Me and my man Lover |
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| Dancing and Decorating |
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| Yummy Food! |
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| Even Tookie our dog was excited |
 | ||||
| Trying some Yoga poses |
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| Decorations |
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| Beautiful face |
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| Gerald playing beautiful music for our talent show |
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| DJ Gadva bringing the party to life |
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| Just a little of the talent show |
Now to just get these kiddos to bed!
Intense Love
Our boys surprised us on Monday with showing us their moves for the future when they are in the Haitian Military. Let's just say, their military requires a bit more rhythm than ours. We had so much fun and it quickly turned into a dance/rap/sing-off (as everything always does) between the two "squads" (the older boys and the younger boys).
Here's a quick video of just a small portion. Samuel (mentioned in previous post) gets his groove on and impresses the older boys with his moves.
Yep, you heard right. They're chanting "HCO" and "PPM"! This is such a huge step. Having them be proud of who they are and where they live. It's beautiful.
Can you feel it? The love? The brother-hood? Can you take a moment and get a small glimpse of why I'm here?
This is my Haitian family, these are my boys. These are my brothers, this is us. We sing, we dance, we act like fools. But mostly, we love intensely.
These are the moments I live for.
Yep, you heard right. They're chanting "HCO" and "PPM"! This is such a huge step. Having them be proud of who they are and where they live. It's beautiful.
Can you feel it? The love? The brother-hood? Can you take a moment and get a small glimpse of why I'm here?
This is my Haitian family, these are my boys. These are my brothers, this is us. We sing, we dance, we act like fools. But mostly, we love intensely.
These are the moments I live for.
Tuesday, April 24, 2012
Routines
Living here at HCO for 3 months has been incredible. It's the simple things that I love...the routines:
Wake up, cook breakfast while the boys get ready for school outside the window. Say good morning.
Send the boys off to school.
Office work until 2.
After the whistle, eat lunch with the boys downstairs. (Share a bowl with a boy.) Talk about school.
After lunch, talk with the little boys about school. Time to nap.
After nap, head to the ball court to watch the big boys play sports.
Head up to the house around 7:30/dark for showers, dinner snack and prayer time.
Prayer, singing, hugs and kisses.
Good night to all!
My favorite time of the day: Prayer.
Hearing our boys lift their voices in song is incredible. I've been trying to capture it on my phone for what seems like an eternity. I simply cannot do it. It always seems as though something comes up to thwart my plans. But mostly, you just cannot capture how beautifully they sing. It is breath-taking.
But tonight I captured a few small clips of them. It's not much, but it can give you an idea of how awesome they are. They sang in English and in Creole for us tonight. It was wonderfully beautiful.
The audio distorts some and the harmonies sound off, but in real life they are not. It is perfect. You'll just have to come hear it for yourself! ;)
This is the sound of the new generation. Full of Christ, pushing out Satan and his forces!
What an incredible daily life I live, thank You Lord.
Wake up, cook breakfast while the boys get ready for school outside the window. Say good morning.
Send the boys off to school.
Office work until 2.
After the whistle, eat lunch with the boys downstairs. (Share a bowl with a boy.) Talk about school.
After lunch, talk with the little boys about school. Time to nap.
After nap, head to the ball court to watch the big boys play sports.
Head up to the house around 7:30/dark for showers, dinner snack and prayer time.
Prayer, singing, hugs and kisses.
Good night to all!
My favorite time of the day: Prayer.
Hearing our boys lift their voices in song is incredible. I've been trying to capture it on my phone for what seems like an eternity. I simply cannot do it. It always seems as though something comes up to thwart my plans. But mostly, you just cannot capture how beautifully they sing. It is breath-taking.
But tonight I captured a few small clips of them. It's not much, but it can give you an idea of how awesome they are. They sang in English and in Creole for us tonight. It was wonderfully beautiful.
More Love, More Power
More Love continued... and Let it Rain
The audio distorts some and the harmonies sound off, but in real life they are not. It is perfect. You'll just have to come hear it for yourself! ;)
This is the sound of the new generation. Full of Christ, pushing out Satan and his forces!
What an incredible daily life I live, thank You Lord.
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