August 13, 2011

Nicaragua Bound

It is with mixed feelings that we start this blog and write our first post. Kevin and I are heading to Nicaragua! We are excited for the adventure that lies before us, but are also experiencing feelings of grief and sadness as we anticipate the many new changes that come with transition. Since October 11, 2005 (the day that Kevin and I met in the Dordt College parking lot), we talked about our hopes for living and working internationally. There was a lot of excitement around this possibility, but after six years we have more of a realistic picture of what this means for us. We are incredibly enthused about the amazing opportunity that we have through the Mennonite Central Committee (MCC) to serve in Nicaragua for three years. The shared values and ways of approaching development that we have in common with MCC is such a blessing. The position descriptions (our actual work) seem to fit our giftings, talents and passions. This motivates us even further. The opportunity to live internationally and grow and learn from people that live life differently from us also brings a sense of enthusiasm. On one hand we look forward to our new "normal" with the opportunity to grow and develop new relationships, and on the other we are saddened by the fact that we will be separated from friends, family, co-workers and clients who are dear to us! We will miss many things - seeing you grow, the joys of new births, new unions and just doing life together. But we go with God as our guide asking that he gives us the strength and courage to go wholeheartedly, to invest fully without regret!
P.S. Start booking your tickets for Managua!

4 comments:

Amanda said...

Wow, big move!

I pray a blessing that our pastor uses alot: "May God go before you to guide you; may He go behind you to protect you; may He go beneath you to uphold you; and may He go beside you to befriend you. Do not be afraid! May the love of our Father be with you always."

Would love to visit in Managua. For now will be satisfied with pictures and posts on this blog. :)

Anonymous said...

Cassie - what an amazing opportunity. You both will grow so much. I admire that you are willing to be uncomfortable, to risk security, to openly follow God in this adventure. Your relationship with each other, with God, and with people who's lives you will touch, will all be deeper and richer because of your soft heart. We'll pray for you both! Jan (Rick too!)

Evonne said...

Hey Cassie and Kevin.....I'm excited to find your blog/words. I'm sad that you are sad about some things and happy and excited for the exciting things ahead of you. Hoping you can be successful in many things. You are both so talented and wonderful people persons. Go with confidence and knowing prayers are with you.
Love you lots!
Love your pictures of the wedding.

Jes said...

We are so excited for you!! This will be such an amazing few years for you both, and I know God will be working through the two of you in ways you have never imagined.

1 more wedding before you go... :-) See you soon!