Ten Girls

There were 10 girls in the "older" group at TeachBeyond orientation two weeks ago.  They represented 5 different families heading to 5 different countries.  Some were anticipating boarding a plane in a few short days (and are already at their destinations!), while others have a year of support raising ahead of them before going overseas.  Their passions and fears, talents and frustrations, shone beautifully throughout the week.  They asked thoughtful questions, reflected deeply about transitions, and shared openly in group discussions.  (They also sang "Frozen" hits and showed off their gymnastic skills in every spare moment.  They're girls!)

You may remember last year's adventures with five kids (4th-8th grades) and my co-teacher Miss Katie.    TeachBeyond Orientation is a time for families to become more familiar with the organization, prepare for cultural adjustments and emotional transitions, and get connected with other TeachBeyond members.  I'm so grateful that Katie and I were teammates again this summer to communicate God's love and grace in transition to middle and high schoolers.  We did some of the same activities as last year - culture shock skits, team-building exercises, collage-making, journaling, and lots of games!  What a joy to share the week together again and to have another amazing group eager to study God's Word and trace His faithfulness through the process.

Researching host cultures at the public library

An English teacher's dream - kids enthusiastically taking notes from non-fiction sources!

Studying the book of Ruth together

Our culminating project this year was a music video for the song "Walk on the Water" (Britt Nicole).  As we listened to the song over and over to plan and shoot the scenes, the words were again impressed on my heart, and I pray that they stick with each of the girls as they move overseas.  These words are for you, too… for all of us.  I pray that we will boldly follow Him wherever He leads!

Get out and let your fear fall to the ground

No time to waste, don't wait

And don't you turn around 

And miss out on everything you were made for

I know you're not sure

So you play it safe, try to run away

When you take that first step into the unknown

He won't let you go

So what are you waiting for?

What do you have to lose?

Your insecurities try to hold to you

You know you're made for more

Don't be afraid to move

Your faith is all it takes 

And you can walk on the water, too!