knocking on the door

Time seems unstoppable right now. With less than a month left until my country switch, the minutes in the day are just not enough. Three months in Egypt has allowed me to finally open my eyes. Looking back, I can see that I had blurred vision for the majority of the first two months. Though adjusting to the lack of familiar never stops, I feel that I am finally getting into the rhythm of life here. Things that used to frustrate me now bring me joy, as I truly embrace the people around me. Although the metro is still stuffy, getting hotter (and smellier!), I am seeing the metro as quite an opportunity. People still stare, but instead of feeling uncomfortable, I am finding ways to start conversations. Just yesterday I made good friends with two little girls. They came right up to me on the metro, grabbed my hands, and insisted that I sit with them. For the rest of the train ride, I couldn't keep the smile off my face - neither could the people around! The simple joy in these little girls had us waving at each other for many blocks after we got off the metro.

This past month, I had an opportunity to go to Alexandria for two full weeks. Just being by the Sea brought much needed refreshment. Beyond being by the Sea, He had bigger plans for me. The first week I attended a pastor's conference at a quiet retreat centre. Pastors from all over Egypt, as well as from other North African countries attended. Suffering and persecution were the main themes; the message I received was, "don't give up". Previously, when tough times arose, I had the attitude that I was only here for a short time. Now I can see His hand through it all, that my eyes should not be on the finish line, but on Him.

With the approach of Easter, many things have been put on hold or ended. Teaching English has come to an end, though I hope to continue going out to the school. April is our Kuku Kaka Smile Month; we will be educating the children at the school more about dental hygiene. Along with the teaching, we will hold contests who has brushed their teeth the most! While at the conference in Alexandria, I was connected with a Canadian team who is here short term. We hope to partner together on this project. With Spring break, Baby Wash has also been put on hold. I can't wait to go back; being away in Alexandria had it's benefits, but I was sad not to be at Baby Wash.

This past week, I was able to spend some time at a Boy's Orphanage here in Cairo. It was amazing to see the result of real love. There was a certain brotherhood among them, as they learned English or praised Him together. They really take care of each other. In comparison to the child homelessness that engulfs Cairo, it was a very encouraging time!

Preparation awaits me, as travel arrangements need to be worked out this month. Although Sudan has similarities to Egypt, there are so many things that will not be so readily available that I need to prepare for. It seems odd to think about packing again, though I feel a bit more prepared now that I am so close. It will feel strange to arrive in Sudan after such a short flight!

Please pray that His hand would direct every part of my transition to my new city. I do not feel ready to say goodbye to Egypt yet; pray for His peace. I am just knocking on the door of Sudan now, waiting for Him to open it.

Thank you again for your emails and your encouragement! I had really intended to write earlier; a mix of little time and no Internet has caused this to be delayed!

I really appreciate you all.

--
Heather