Traveling the world and what it means to me...

Lil penny is tired!!!!! And giving the wink at the same time lol

At this moment I should not be in this blog typing away like this. I have an orthotics final practical tomorrow, however a thought has been itching me. I have a confession to make. Well, technically it isn't a confession, I haven't done anything horribly wrong or anything horrendous of the sort. You see for the past few weeks I've been in the thought of pursuing traveling... by means of ministry and providing medical services through what I know best as a student - physical therapy.

I've never visited or toured around Europe, I've never been to a cozy beach in the Caribbean. My family often invests more in going back home to the Philippines rather than vacations to a far away place (either that or I miss the opportunities to go because of other commitments. And while I've dreamed of going around places and touring there, I'd honestly give up an opportunity to go to these dream destinations to do a medical missionary trip instead. The revelation came even greater to me when I read James 2:14-26 and realized for some time now I've been completely selfish with myself. Or at least in my self-perception and evaluation I've been. Yes, I know God loves me no matter what. I am a firm believer in what God has set right for me. But this passage really called out to me. It wasn't necessarily telling me that I hadn't done enough. More like my heart found it's calling. And yes, regardless of philosophical antics I am a firm believer that faith without dead is dead... but that's a whole 'nother can of worms. Anyhoo...

So you might tell me... "well, that's easy, just do it!" Well, I honestly have a few obstacles in the way:

1. Money. Money. Money! Missionary trips are not free. Especially ones that you're picky with. I prefer that it's a medical missionary trip where I can practice under the supervision of a health care provider or preferably a physical therapist.

2. The locations available are limited. Haiti has been a top option for me, it seems like this is the most popular and most available option. However I'd like to go across the continent. Some locations in mind are South Africa, Cambodia, and India... also around Southeast Asia close to home is something I've been attracted to. 

3. Time constraints. As if I'm not busy enough in school. The dates to go to certain locations don't often mix well with my schedule. I already don't have much of a break in between semesters and rotations. I would only be able to go to a trip that is limited to two weeks and it must happen during breaks in between semesters.

4. Unsure of which association to go with. CMDA has multiple opportunities to go. I prefer to go christian/catholic route.

Sigh... at least one thing I have in mind for sure. Doing my 4 week rotation in the Philippines has already been set. Again, praying for all of this. I know my heart is in the right place. I feel at peace even just blogging about this! If you or someone you know has done something similar, please let me know! I would love to get some feedback.

In the mean time I will try my best to keep studying and keep trucking!!!!

Love,

Jacquis

Mom and I at the Kemah Boardwalk