Started Working

Monday morning I woke up and dreaded heading to work. I had absolutely no idea what I would be doing and I am the type of person that likes to have a plan. I went to the hospital and worked at the front desk with the receptionists who speak no english. It was a really busy morning cause Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays are consultation days so the waiting room was packed. People kept trying to ask me questions and all I could tell them was, "No hablo mucho espanol. Lo siento." It was so frustrating and I just wanted to scream. That afternoon I went to the YFC office and sat down with Alex and Israel, my supervisors. I was a little weary of how it would go but it ended up being a great conversation about what I'll be doing and how things have been going so far. It was a bit refreshing to actually have somewhat of an idea of my job and expectations and to know that they are glad I'm here. Israel said that in the hospital I will work in the Spiritual Department playing with the kids and praying with them and their families. At Vida Full (the YFC ministry) I will be going out on the streets with groups to reach those that aren't being reached by other churches. This is something new that they are doing and I can't wait to help out. It's really dangerous as we will be going to the clubs, parties, pool halls, street corners where drugs are being sold, etc. So if you could please pray for this ministry and the safety both of the staff and of those that we are trying to reach. My spanish is getting a little better. I can understand a lot more which is awesome but I haven't had the chance to speak it very much. One of my friends is going to tutor me once a week until I pick it up more so that should help a lot. This has been an awesome week as I started my job. It's been really laid back as I have just been observing everything and helping out where I can. We did some planning for a day event we are having next Saturday with the youth which should be a lot of fun. It will be a time for people to bring their friends that don't know the Lord and show them that they can be accepted and welcomed into the Christian environment. Again, I thank you for all of your prayers and support and ask that you continue to keep me in your prayers. As I have had the chance to work in the hospital, I have seen a lot of suffering and I ask that you pray for those children and their families. Also, I ask prayer for the language as I continue to learn "Dominican" and adapt to the culture here while being away from my family. Until next time...