Cape Town - Day 5: Blessings from God

12:34AM
I've been in South Africa for four days now and it seems like its been weeks already! Still no pictures, but I promise they are coming:-). It must be meant to be this way - for me to share more about my work and the goodness of how God is manifesting himself in, to and through me and with those in which I interact.

Many who know me know that my family life is challenging - for a number of reasons. Its no secret to you that Gerome and I have not had an easy walk, partly due to unresolved issues from his previous marriage. This is not unique to us - fore many families deal with similar situations. But never did I imagine that my walk in discovering ways to forgive and remove myself from the center of conflict in our relationship would prove to be of benefit to my AME family in Cape Town. 

Today I was able to share my story with a minister who is trying to tackle pain brought to he and his family due to church politics and his inability to share his hurt with his family - immediate and church. I felt his pain because I certainly know where he is and tried to counsel him in sharing my experience in learning to forgive; in learning how to accept the reality of things we cannot change; and in knowing God still has work for us to do - in strengthening ourselves and working for His people. Though we shared a few tears of pain, I could feel God's presence in the midst of our conversation and beamed with gratitude that I was able to be used in this way.   I shared with my AME brother that our walk becomes so much more tough when we are not able to lose ourselves in the midst of stormy times in order to make room for the blessings God has available for us. When we do not lose our desire to control situations, He forces us to in challenging ways so that we may do as He would have.  Our blessings come when we submit to His will and become a vessel for others to receive his grace. I am so grateful that my walk allowed me to be used in this way...my blessing came today in knowing He has moved me way beyond where I used to be.

8:12AM
Today I finally got up and went for a walk and boy what a blessing I received. For those who do not believe the built and natural environment affect our ability and willingness to engage in physical activity is a lie!  I got up 1) because I did want to exercise, but moreover I have been dying to see the sun rise.  We tried to catch the sun set behind the mountains yesterday but left the office too late, but its all good because what I saw today was nothing but the goodness of God.

I've got pictures!