During the last weekend of September we had our first retreat in the town of Kottayam. It is only about 4 km from my home in Pallom. We had awesome Bible Studies, an important meeting with some officials at CMS College, A great session that helped us develop some new language training skills, and lots of free time.
It was a nice change of pace and it was really helpful to touch base with the other volunteers. We laughed off shared frustrations, told jokes, sang silly songs, made some beautiful music, and shared a little bit more of our personalities.
The highlight of the trip was definitely our boat ride on the world famous backwaters. We got to drink water straight out of a coconut. First you drink the water, then someone pounds the coconut open and creates a little spoon with the hard outer shell. You are then supposed to scoop the tender, delicious coconut right out! We all took turns snapping photos.
At the end of our ride we watched the Kerala palm trees sway against a sunset that God was clearly painting right in front of our eyes. It was a renewing meeting and overall it left me feeling immensely loved, appreciated and supported. I feel so thankful for each community that prays for me, nurtures me and helps me to grow. I see that everywhere I turn in India.
I deeply missed the hostel girls while I was away. Sunday when I returned we played games and laughed and shared. They are becoming the family I always want to come home to.
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