5.11.2012

Meeting People . . . if only for Moments

Early this morning I bid farewell to two new friends as I unlocked the gate entrance to our flat and sent them off to the train station to continue their travels in Europe. Jackie and Kayla, who I had never met before, spent two nights in our home. A mutual friend suggested they contact us when he knew of their travel plans. I'm so glad he did!

Great gals. IWU grads exploring the world before they enter a new season in life. I love hanging out with 20-somethings. Adventuresome, full of passion, ready to explore. Taking in the cultures of the world, learning as they go, processing, asking questions. I think my ideal job could be to mentor students on a university campus. I'm inspired and challenged by this age. If we could only keep that sense of adventure and desire to learn that often accompanies the third decade of life. Maybe that's why I love this age. I want to keep that spirit alive in me. The spirit of life-long learning.

It was a joy to take them around the city. We had some great talks over coffee and dinner, getting to know each other. Loved hearing their stories of coming to faith in Christ, influenced by parents who made that decision later in life. It was a beautiful picture of how God orchestrates the movement of His Spirit. I loved hearing their dreams and passions.

There are times when people cross your path in life and you're all the better for it. A Hungarian friend told me that even if you meet people for only a moment, like having a conversation with someone on the train or on a flight, then you have enriched their life and they have enriched yours.

It's so true.

So, we hugged and I pointed them in the direction of the 49 tram stop. Maybe our paths will cross again. Maybe not. Nevertheless, I am thankful to have crossed paths with Jackie and Kayla for these moments in time. I have been enriched and I trust they feel the same.

My word for the year is love. I think this has something to do with it :).

1 comment:

Jackie Vick said...

Gwen!

I just got home and had a chance to read your blog post! I know I speak for kayla and I both, to say our time with you in Budapest was such a blessing as well! We had such a great time. Our trip would not have been the same without our time with you and we look forward to the next time we can get together!