More ch-ch-ch-changes

Okay so this one is long overdue. The big news that probably isn't much of a shocker if we've had a conversation in the last couple of months...I'm moving to Washington, DC this fall! At the beginning of October I will begin a two-year apprenticeship with World Vision International working in the Peacebuilding and Reconciliation department. In this position I will be doing a lot of research and macro-context analysis for peace and conflict. Being part of a global network committed to making sense of turbulent situations around the world, I will have the opportunity to learn from leading practitioners and directors in this field. Although this field is a new area for me, I will be able to draw from my passions, training, and experiences with transformational development, advocacy, and children at risk issues in a global context.
The way this all came about is pretty amazing. This certainly wasn't what I was expecting; just eight months ago I was planning to move to Africa this summer or fall, but God has surprised me with different plans. It has been so affirming to see God's hand on this process, to witness him guiding me the way that he has these last several months. I love how he showed up and challenged me to think beyond "my plan." It has also meant a lot to me to feel the support of faculty at Fuller during this process.

I am excited to work with such a solid organization and look forward to finally pursuing my heart for the poor through my occupation; it has taken a long time to get here, but I am so excited for the journey before me. My heart hasn't changed; I still desire to live and work overseas with the poor and not just for the poor, but I know this is a launching pad for me to learn and grow so that I will be better equipped to serve and come alongside the poor when that season of life comes. Until then I am ready to embrace this new season and enjoy it for what it is.

The big move will be sometime later next month, but until then I have some more books to read in preparation for my job and I am even going to Indonesia next week for my first international trip with World Vision. Eeeeeee!