We're Back!

Hi Friends,

Well, we're back. It's taken a few days to get our heads around it - and to some degree that's not done yet.

Coming back is often hard. When you have spent time with people, who by our standards have nothing, yet who know joy and share it freely - it's hard to come back and listen to people here whine about the poor selection of corn flakes at the grocery store.

The team did an excellent job in all areas. Working with our masons we were able to provide enough assistance to finish the walls on the second floor of the residence portion of the training centre in Kokrobite, finish the new computer lab, and provide the materials and hire the workman to complete the windows and doors of the offices for YFC Ghana, now housed in Kokrobite. This is way ahead of what we expected.

We had our struggles - two or three of us got quite sick, some for just a day, some for longer.

Working as a team is always a challenge, and this team was no different. We had our smooth efficient moments and our rough times. But in the end, we got the job done.

I personally am very grateful for the talents of Dave and Ellen, who brought some valuable experience regarding working in the heat and being safe, as well as the ability to take over the running of the worksite when I was down for the count. Having run a number of missions, I am pleased when I can walk away from something like this having learned from others, skills which I can use next time.

I am impressed by everyone on the team. Everyone had moments where they really shone and where they encouraged others. It has been a privilege to serve with you.

My experiences in Liberia are also important. There was great pain and despair, mixed with hope and optimism. It will be a while sorting that out. I have never before been in such close contact with so many who have experienced such violence and destruction. My heart aches when I think about it....and yet I also saw the hand of God at work.

Below are a couple of comments from the team... there will likely be more for a while.

Blessings to all of you, thanks for your support.
Daryl

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

Hello from Penny, back home in Canada!  Wow, it's hard to believe that the time flew by so quickly and we're back home already!  As Lawrence would say, "You have to hit the ground running!".  That's exactly what it has been like for us.  I went straight back to work Monday morning and let me tell you it was quite the struggle.  I could barely manage getting dressed and ready for work!  I don't know how Lawrence did it, but he headed for Ottawa to pick up the dog Monday.  I'm afraid that our minds and bodies haven't quite caught up with our feet. Everyday things keep triggering thoughts, emotions and memories from our time in Ghana.  I shared some photos from the web with the children at the daycare today.  It's so wonderful to share my stories while they look on with excitement!  Perhaps they will be inspired to want to help others too.  That's how change happens, one child, one person at a time!  Well, let me just say that I'm so proud of everyone on this team for going the
distance.  Literally and figuratively.  I'm sure you have all been an inspiration to those around you, including me!

That will have to do for now. I'm sure I'll have many more thoughts to express as the days go on, so I'll write soon.  Like I said, we've hit the ground running and I must run along!

Blessings all,
Penny

-------------------------------------------------------------

Thank you all for the support and love that you have shown us.
Ghana is a beautiful place inside and out. The people there were amazing and so passionate, they were willing to do anything for you to make you happy.

After being on this mission I have realized how much I
have grown into the person that I always wanted to be. I found myself while I was there and I am so grateful that you helped make that possible.

Truly GOD blesses each and everyone one of you,
Thank you again.

Darcie