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Hi Friends,

Hope this finds you well. Sorry this is so late getting to everyone. It’s been a little hectic since I’ve been back.

It’s just been just under 2 weeks since arriving back in the States. The last week in South Africa was incredibly busy. Two days of doing AIDS testing in a school, an overnight stay serving in a hospice, friends visiting from the States, and plenty of meetings…as well as finding creative ways to keep bats out of my room…yes, bats! Not as easy as you’d might think!

Since being back I find myself reflecting a lot about that last week in South Africa. Between the AIDS testing and the hospice I’ve been thinking about the fragility of life. (Couple that with the Easter Season.) Africa remains one of those kinesthic places. For me, the veil between heaven and earth is very thin there. I’m not near as aware of how fragile my life is, or how fragile the lives of those around are.

I couldn’t help but think about the patient in the hospice the last few days. Helping him go the toilet, take a shower, swallow his medication, and even move from his bed to a wheel chair, I thought, “This guy is my age and his life is nearly finished. It shouldn’t be this way”. Talk about a reality check. That sort of thing makes one grateful for the life that one has.

Lastly, I just want to say thanks to all of you for believing in me and praying for me during yet another month in Africa. That sort of thing isn’t measurable, but so essential. And I’m grateful to those of you who gave so generously. It’s incredible humbling and means the world that you’d trust me in that way.

Bless you guys! Have a great day!

Your Friend,
Dave