Well, here I am. An 18 year old girl living an ordinary American life who is about to encounter an incredibly life changing four months in a poverty stricken country - dirt roads, cold showers, dirty water, rice and beans, bugs, and people who simply need of the love of Jesus Christ.
As it gets closer, I am beginning to realize what I have gotten myself into. Although I may still have the voices in the back of my head reminding me of the danger, the huge language barrier, and the lack of security and comfort in a place like Nicaragua, the powerful voice of my Savior overcomes every time. "You are loved and protected. I will never let you go. You are my child, and I have called you here for such a time as this."
My plane takes off from San Jose International Airport in 25 days! I cannot believe that it has come so quickly. Last Saturday I had my internship "orientation" over Skype. It is all beginning to feel so real! Contrary to what I previously thought, I will be doing my internship in the area of Micro-finance. Nicaragua has set up an amazing opportunity for the women of Nicaragua through this site. Through micro-finance we are able to provide women with micro loans to assist them in creating small businesses to support their families. Through this program the women are taught the basics of business, budgeting, and the importance of managing your money. In addition to teaching these important skills, I will have incredible opportunities to build strong relationships with these women and their precious children. This program may often deal with the poorest of the poor. I may spend a lot of my time visiting homes, participating in Bible studies, praying with the families, and listening to both the progress and struggles that come along with each business. Although I have never had a strong interest in finances or business, I know that God has placed me in this site for a reason, and I am so excited for the relationships and testimonies I will get to witness.
I have also officially been placed in a host family! I will be living with a lady named Elia. I have been told she has two children (ages 10 and 14), two dogs, and a bird. Yes, A BIRD! I secretly have a big fear of birds, but I guess that will need to change.
I hope you will follow me on this extremely challenging, stressful, yet beautiful journey I am about to encounter!
Nicaragua... Here I Come!!
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