Disembarkation

Nervous, excited and the slightest bit overwhelmed, Natalie and I leave for Afghanistan tomorrow afternoon. We fly to Chicago, on to Zurich, and on to Dubai where we'll crash in a hotel for a night. Then, we'll fly to Kabul, change airports, and on to the Northern Region.

Its been a whirlwind since we returned from the first trip, and really doesn't feel like we've been back for six weeks. Our time in Tennessee and Iowa has been filled with great conversations with family, friends, and a few wise and gracious couples. Life has been rich as we've delved into our concerns and hopes for this time.

Naturally, Natalie and I have had much to think through and discuss. A conversation on death struck heavy chords in both our hearts. Obviously, death isn't something we enjoy pondering, but we both found some freedom in the conversation, mainly from fear and anxiety. The whole process of planning to live in Afghanistan, albeit for only three months, has been one of evaluating personal barriers, risk, and our purpose in going (beyond fulfilling a job contract).

I can't wait to get on a plane tomorrow and have my world rocked by Afghan culture and life. Cheers!