I can honestly say it was an Easter unlike one I've ever had before, but hey, Gambia tends to be full of experiences like that!
As it is currently a full moon, we were really hoping for the chance to see some sea turtles coming in and out. But catching a glimpse of them is pretty difficult.
Alas, we had a good time...
...the wine and cheese was great...
...the sunset was gorgeous!...
...And a good time was truly had by all.
On a random note, even though it wasn't Thanksgiving we decided it would be nice to go around and share what we are all thankful for. Everything was shared from family and friends to sea turtles and the ability to appreciate coming from such a truly privileged country and society.
So, without getting too "deep" or personal, allow me to just share that my time here in Gambia has been a constant (though expected) roller-coaster of ups and downs, good days and bad days, character building experiences and days where I just can't stop smiling. Some experiences have pushed me to limits I didn't know I had, while other experiences and relationships continue to remind me of how much I have to be thankful for.
In so many ways, my time here and the experiences I've come across have truly helped me re-focus somewhat, and gain a refreshed perspective of what is most important in my life, that being my faith, family and friends.
That said, here is an excerpt I find appropriate to share with all of you in honor of this Easter holiday. It's from one of my favorite authors/theologians, Dietrich Bonhoeffer. Take the time to read it, re-read it, enjoy the truth behind its words, and stop to take the time to be truly thankful for how blessed we really are.
Each morning is a new beginning of our life. Each day is a finished whole. The present day marks the boundary of our cares and concerns. It is long enough to find God or loose Him, to keep faith or fall into disgrace.
God created day and night for us so we need not wander without boundaries, but may be able to see in every morning the goal of the evening ahead.
Just as the ancient sun rises anew everyday, so the eternal mercy of God is new every morning.
Every morning God gives us the gift of comprehending anew His faithfulness of old; thus in the midst of our life with God, we may daily begin a new life with Him.
In the first moments of the new day are for God's liberating grace, God's sanctifying presence. Before the heart unlocks itself for the world, God wants to open it for Himself; before the ear takes in the countless voices of the day, it should hear in the early hours the voice of the Creator and Redeemer.
God prepared the stillness of the first morning for Himself. It should remain His.
-Dietrich Bonhoeffer
Happy Easter!
