July 22/06

What a relaxing day so far! We decided to take the day to ourselves - so we slept in, enjoyed a nice big breakfast together, and then watched a movie! Actually last night was quite relaxing as well as we ended up watching a movie together after we got home from VBS. Movies were "rent one, get one free" at the local Irving so we stocked up! We watched "Fun with Dick and Jane" and "Freedomland" we enjoyed both...I wonder what rating Braye would give them?? Now that I think about it, that is the first time that we've gone to a store to rent a movie since last summer!! 95% of the time we've just gone knocking next door - I miss our "Braye Blockbuster!"

On a more serious note, I've been thinking about my life as an officer a lot lately - wondering what my true passion for ministry is - and thinking how my CFOT experience has changed that over this past year. Being placed at the Booth Center was quite a suprise for both Sheldon and I, and I must admit that it took me awhile to get used to it. But now that I am in a setting which only has very small social services responsibilties (a small food bank), to be truly honest, I miss it! Going to the center and chatting with the clients gave me a particular sense of ministry that I'm not finding here at the Corps- please don't jump to any conclusions!! I love being the "corps officer", I love planning worship and writing sermons, I love the programs that take place, the relationships that can be built with the people - but I'm just saying that there was a certain feeling that I would get while at the center - knowing that I was truly helping these people, whether it be just by looking them in the eyes and talking to them - or passing them a sandwhich and coffee. I learned so much from being at the Booth Center, and I've heard so many stories (some with good endings and some with bad), I've become more thankful for what I have, and I value the things I have around me -understanding that with a few bad decisions, it could be me in that Center. If you had asked me one year ago if I would be feeling this way...I probably would have laughed in your face! Before CFOT I had no experience with social services, and had never even spoken to someone who lived on the street...but obviously all that has changed now. Do I think that social servies is my new passion in ministry at this point in my life? No I don't - but I know that I will always want to help out my local SA Center- I know that my eyes were opened to a new type of ministry- and I know that when I drive by a house here in Dildo that looks beaten up, run down, and like no one lives it anymore...I think to myself, I wonder if someone does live in that house...I wonder if they have enough food...I wonder if they are cold. A thought that would never have crossed my mind one year ago. So...have I shocked you?

Gotta jet and practice my vocal selection for tomorrow - then get ready for super. We're invited to Steve and Anita's for supper- BBQ Yummy!