Friday, March 12, 2010

Sometimes It's Hard to Be Away From Home

I love living in Brazil. I know that this is where God wants us. I really haven't had any problems with culture shock. I still have a lot to learn about the language and culture. I haven't lived near my family for 15 years. I have grown accustomed to missing out on birthdays, holidays, the births of nieces/nephews, and family get-togethers. (Not saying that I like it!)

Today, Tim and I took some friends to the airport in Belo Horizonte, about 4 hours away. While we there, we ran a couple of errands, Tim treated me to TGIFridays for lunch, then we did some shopping. We found a few things that we needed at a good price. Then I got to have Burger King for supper. I had had my American food fix and would be good to go for quite a while! I was feeling rather spoiled!

We finally made it home about 11:15 pm, discovering that my parents were trying to get in touch with us. A couple minutes later the phone rang. My mom informed me that my sister's husband had died unexpectedly. Shock! My sister is 36 and has three kids (ages 7, 4, and almost 2). This is definitely one of those times that it is hard to be away from home and family. I want to be there for her and the kids, yet it is not possible for me to go there. All I can do is tell her that I'm praying for her and the kids. I know that the next few months will be very difficult for them. Just as she has to trust God to help her through this time, I have to remember that God has me here in Brazil and trust that He can and will take care of my sister and her children.

3 comments:

Nina in Portugal said...

oh my....what terrible news.

I'll be praying for you, and your family during this extremely difficult time.

Rebekah said...

Praying for you, and for your sister and her family!

Ingi said...

Thanks for the prayers! My husband was able to find a good deal on a ticket. I'm already in Michigan with my family. I only get to be here for a few days, but am so thankful that I can be here.