Raft Building

     One of the most personally challenging sessions at PFO was on the transition process.  TCK’s deal with it regularly and we are of course experiencing it as we move to Ghana.   

     The first insight we had is the idea of emotional paradox: the capacity to experience two or more emotions at the same time.  This might seem obvious, but it was strangely relieving to find that we could be excited and sad simultaneously.  Excitement does not mean we are happy to leave, and our grief does not negate our excitement.

     We have also learned the importance of leaving well so that we can begin well in the new place.  The presenters taught us to build a RAFT.  

     R=Reconciliation - make sure relationships are right

     A=Affirmation - express love and appreciation

     F=Farewell - be intentional about goodbyes to people and places

     T=Think destination - get ready!

     So we are building our RAFTs, traveling around the country, and thanking God for his many gifts past, present, and future.  We have visited family and friends in Missouri, Kentucky, West Virginia, Pennsylvania, and Indiana.  We are also going to Iowa and then all the way to Texas.  We would appreciate your prayers for safety and encouragement as we travel and make our final preparations.