IRL

The internet is a wonderful thing in so many ways. I'm so grateful for this platform to keep people updated on my recovery and my ministry, and I'm really fortunate to have the technology that allows me to see my family members' faces regularly when I live overseas. There are still limitations, however, and the past two months of visits have been precious opportunities of "IRL" interactions off the internet. When I can hug my nephews in real life, it's a whole lot different than the flippant FaceTime goodbyes of a four year old. Sitting down on someone's couch to explain with all the nuance how proud I am of my student who's pursuing a degree in journalism with a detailed vision for how he wants to use his voice to use his privilege to advocate for others is so much more fulfilling that writing this sentence. 

I'm wrapping up my stateside visit, and I've got a week left to enjoy these "in real life" interactions before I go back to online updates. In just one more week, I'll be telling everyone how much I miss McMenamins cajun tots and Terminator milkshakes, but I want to transition well between America and Germany (and then on to New Zealand). I'll be cherishing these special moments in real life, so I'll ask your forgiveness for the short update online.