Today was unexpectedly emotional for the Giles family. Our last service at Redeemer Church included a number of teary-eyed farewells with good friends, teachers, and Annamae's father (Charlie) and his wife (Linda). These goodbyes left an indelible mark on all of us and a reassurance that we are loved and cared for by a truly Godly family.
One thing I haven't anticipated is the emotional reaction of our children. Call me an out-of-touch, non-affective father. That would probably be fair. But over the past month a number of friends have asked me, "How are your kids dealing with you guys leaving for 4.5 months?" My response has been consistent: "Great. They cannot wait to go! They are very excited!" I believe that is true, but I have underestimated how difficult this trip will be on them. They are leaving behind friends, school, and all that is familiar for them to venture to a land most profoundly depicted for them in the Sound of Music. Perhaps the beauty in all of this is just realizing that our kids' hearts are still tender and moldable and in need of parental nurturance.
Thanks to the generosity of friends who were willing to watch our kids today, Annamae and I were able to spend some time packing. I cannot say that we are handling the stress of preparing 5 people for a semester-long trip in a very health way. We (or at least, I) snap at each other and get irritated with very slight provocations. We are hoping that our arrival in Vienna will usher in a new chapter in our lives, one in which we can look at each other with eyes that DON'T suggest we should be working on something to prepare for the trip!
Expectations are a funny thing. We are very excited about leaving, and expect our trip to be a life-changing experience. But we also know there will be hardships and unfulfilled expectations. We take comfort in knowing that the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob is the God of the Giles family. He will never leave nor forsake us. And we can head to Vienna with that unshakeable confidence and with every reasonable expectation that he will be glorified in, through, by, and in spite of us!
We love all of you and will write frequently!
Steve
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4 comments:
Thinking of you guys and praying for your family and this adventure. Skype us! Baby Russell needs to see his favorite Giles family!
Love you guys so much. I hope you have a great trip. Look forward to reading about your adventures.
So glad to see this post! You're officially Bookmarked. Can't wait to see you guys soon!
You trying to make me cry? Usually wouldn't see you during this time but know that you aren't that far away!!!! Now I know you ARE!!!
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