Sometimes you gotta be tough to make it in missionary life. And I know we have nothing to compare with others in REALLY HARD TO LIVE places. But life and ministry in Japan has still been a challenge. And even after many, many years of growth, I still find myself challenged and pushed out of my comfort zone, growing just a wee layer more to be more hardy and do what needs to be done.
These last few days at one of our mission's holiday homes was no different. I enjoyed 3 personal retreat days of refreshing quiet, extravagant autumn leaves and misty mountain views sprinkled with icing snow for dessert. Although, not everything was as picturesque as the picture below that I messaged a friend. For a troop of hoppers (dead and alive) greeted me the first cold night I arrived. The drains hadn't been covered by the last person staying. Most of these little critters were in the bath, so needless to say I avoided taking a shower for the first few days until I mustered up enough courage to vacuum my little house-mates up. Sorry guys. No vacancy.
I was relived that someone had graciously filled the petrol can in the shed. I had visions of trying to cart the heavy plastic cartons in my car from the gas station to fill the little canister in the small kerosene stove that heated the apartment. Instead it was fast and easy, compared to when I've had to pour it by hand, ending with a smelly mess. There was even a fancy hose that pumped the gas into the little metal tank with the push of a button. Whala! Mission accomplished!
So I am toasty warm and bug free. And enjoying my last day of books, music, messages and walks. Quite the high-life for this veteran missionary gal who rather likes things comfy and snug...and especially likes her vacation cabins spindly leg and antenna free.
