Last October I received news from back home that my Nan had been diagnosed with cancer. With this I was encouraged and allowed time off for Christmas from my boss. I really struggled with the decision, as I had committed to not return until April 2010 unless in the event of a family crisis, but also after settling in here in Mt Hagen. There were many reasons I could think of why I would like to return to Sydney. I wanted to be sure that I was only returning to see my Nan. But in the end God made it clear to me that I should return and provided everything for me to return to Sydney to see my Nan, family and friends for almost four weeks of leave.
1. Family on Christmas day (wide angle lense makes me look skinner than I really am and those on the sides look larger than they are)
On return to Sydney no one knew of my return except for my family and a few others. I was able to surprise my youth group at there youth formal and my home sending church. i experienced a lot of culture shock on my return and took a week or so to settle back, even though it wasn’t knew and was previously home. The main symptoms being a loss of appetite and feeling disconnected.
2. New Year’s Eve BBQ, before heading to a beach north
I was really blessed over my three and bit weeks back in Australia. I spent Christmas and quality time with my Nan and family, attended the youth formal, my home church, presented at church, the beach, movies (including Batman Dark Knight at IMAX), good food, shopping, a week away camping with close friends and a lot more. Things I never expected to experience for a long time. it was my first real break in two years and I was able to unwind while away camping.
3. Week away camping at Eden
I am really grateful to God for His provision of being able to return to Australia, something I never expected. And for His goodness and faithfulness to me. I was really reminded and was amazed how good life is in Australia.
