Saturday, July 24, 2010

The closing of a Chapter

July 24:
The bags are packed, the closet is empty, and the desk is cleared off. Was that two years? Yes, even though time flies, its been two full years of experiences and lessons I could never completely express in words. How I will miss this place...
As I walk around the city, I realize how familiarized I've become with this place which was once so strange and overwhelming. The crazy traffic no longer fazes me, nor do I wonder what is around the next corner. In many ways the Filipino culture has become a normal way of life.
Yesterday I worked my last shift- it was a sad day. It's amazing how much a place can change with experience and time. I remember in the beginning feeling very overwhelmed and quite incapable of ever becoming a confident midwife. Being someone who didn't even know how to take a blood pressure, I had a long way to go. But God was so faithful and has brought me so far. I'm excited to continue this process of learning... I love being a midwife!
But this place has taught me so much more than just becoming a midwife. It has changed my outlook on life, and has touched my heart in ways I could have never imagined. I know I'll never be the same again, and I only hope and pray that God will never let me forget what He has taught me in this chapter of life.
I think one of the hardest parts of life is saying goodbye. I felt this reality once again as I hugged so many people goodbye, unsure of whether I will ever see them again on this side of heaven. Then there were my midwife sisters; girls who have been there with me through many laughter and tears. I will miss them 'somethin fierce!' :) I was so privileged and blessed to be apart of this class. I have a feeling I'll see them all again at some point or another, but I know leaving means we will lose something special we had- something I can only give to God seeing His plans are perfect.
I know leaving also means I will be back home to my family and friends who I love beyond words. So with very mixed emotions I come to the close of this chapter. It has been an amazing journey, an experience I will always cherish. And now, who knows what the next chapter will hold... but that's the exiting part of life! Especially when we can trust the Author and Finisher of our faith!

To God be the glory


2 comments:

Anonymous said...

Sarah,
Gefeliciteerd met al je perfecte exames!!
Twee jaar in een mensenleven vergeet je inderdaad nooit,zeker niet wanneer je zoveel vrienden moet achterlaten.
Maar God is zo goed,hij geeft je telkens een andere uitdaging in het leven;en elke keer word je rijker in vriendschappen en zegen van boven.
Ondertussen ben je al terug in Canada en bij je familie.
De vreugde om het weerzien en het verdriet van afscheid nemen liggen dicht bij elkaar he?
Veel geluk met je laatste examen, het lukt je daar bestaat geen twijfel over,hier toch niet!
Liefs en een dikke knuffel van ons allen!
Lisette

Marvin/Marlene said...

Sarah. I so enjoyed following along with you in this challenging & special part of your life! Penning your experience was worthwhile for not just others but probably for yourself as well. -Just to stop, think & reiterate the adventure & daily happenings that had become more & more familiar to you.
Now this blog will be constructive to recall this amazing duration of your life. I loved how real you were, sharing your love for the Lord and how much a part He is in your life.
I just want to encourage you to keep writing as the Lord has gifted you in this area to make a interesting, challenging & good read!
You're treasured dearly & I'm very thankful the Lord let us be sisters,
Marlene