Be Still My Heart

When I lived in Detroit I directed a number of programs, one being the mentoring program on Thursday nights. This was a middle and high school program and such a unique thing. We had 40 incredibly committed adults and 70 incredibly tough but beautiful kids that came together and did many different things. These nights changed me- may have something to do with the role I'm in now. But, each Thursday night this father like figure Phil came strolling in- tall, with white hair and a deep booming voice. Every stinkin Thursday he'd run into me and stop dead in his tracks and cover his eyes and loudly proclam .."Be still my heart". He was so kind to me- like a proud dad and truly encouraged me when the incredibly tough part of the crowd we served would surface. I was so well taken care of in Detroit...but...I digress.

I was sitting at my pink table (pink..right wizzy??) in the dining room the other day with a smile that wouldn't go away watching all that was going on around me and those words boomed in my head..."Be still my heart".

Next to me was Emanuel, dominating at multiplication.com

Behind me was Tung dancing, with reckless abandon

At the TV was New Sudan and Ahmed practicing their bow and arrow

From the hallway I could hear Nyasabit and Awata creating masterpieces in the craft room

In the kitchen fixing things were two incredible men from my church that are so committed to this house and the ministry that happens here.

Downstairs were victory shouts from Joe Joe or Nathan after a completed ping pong duel.

Be still my heart. This is my life, my real life and I'm incredibly blessed to be in this place. Not everybody gets to do this. But, I do and I know this is exactly where I am supposed to be and what I am supposed to be doing. These kids have stolen my heart. They are so grateful and kind and teach me more about love and grace than all the Sunday school lessons I've heard combined. Gosh, I'm in love.

Check out these pics...you'll see why!!!

Some Wii action

Dance moves. boom.
New Sudan--Be.Still.My.Heart, seriously...i might just keep him.

You see what I mean?? Incredible!!!

In other GREAT news...my sister is engaged and boy are we excited!!! Congrats Kell and Andy- thanks for humoring me and taking this pic...not sure who was more excited at this point ;)