This evening I decided to go for a jog, and chose the trail that leads behind my house, and connects my sleepy little town to another equally quaint and adorable town. I passed fellow Germans out for their evening stroll (very common), even though the weather was misty and overcast. I enjoy this path, because it leads through fields and pastures, and I get to smile at the cows as they happily munch on the vibrantly green grass that has sprung from the ground due to the large amounts of rain we've had in the past few weeks. There's this bench along the path, and it overlooks an opening in the scenery, and you can see the gorgeous trees that cover the hills, along with a panoramic view of the countryside. I decided to sit for a little while, and as I listened to my favorite worship songs on my iPod, I was suddenly hit with an overwhelming sense of thankfulness. I am so thankful for my life here, and for the ways that I have been able to use the gifts that God has given me. I simply cannot believe that my first school year is coming to a close in just three short weeks. I feel in a way that it has only just started, but when I look at the faces of my students, I can see just how much they have grown and matured in our time together. I love every single one of them, and it will be so difficult to let them go at the end of our school year. We have become a small family, and even though I will see most of them again next year (one student is returning to the States with her family, and I will miss her dearly), it won't be the same.
As I reflect on my time here so far, and make plans for the summer and the next school year, I am reminded of God's faithfulness. He has been so good, and I am so excited to continue serving here for another year. Thank you so much to all of you who have made it possible for me to come here to live and teach. I feel your prayers, and am so blessed by your financial gifts. You have been so faithful to me, and I am humbled by your generosity.
