The first week of my internship was a baptism by fire
At this moment, the sound of waves crashing against the shore fills my room. This morning, as I walked to work, chickens clucked at me, and children carrying jugs of water on their heads laughed and waved. My first week here has been, as some are calling it, a “baptism by fire.”
After I arrived, I went up north for a few days to see life outside the city. I was even able to “co-pilot” the small plane! The health team and I spent most of the week planning the upcoming projects for the year. Many of the projects address violence against women and girls; treatment for Ebola survivors; HIV/AIDS testing, treatment, and counseling; and nutrition education.
Faith with her new coworker, Kou
Part of organizing our projects includes meeting with various offices of health. Many of those offices were in the next town over, about a 2.5 hour drive away from our base. We woke up early one morning and headed out. The road we were on was filled with some of the craziest holes and crevices that I’ve ever seen. I didn’t get too carsick—I spent much of the trip with my eyes closed, hand clutched to the door handle, praying for smooth parts in the road.
After our important meetings, we enjoyed some tea, eggs, and bread; visited a market in search of lappa (African printed fabric); and headed home. We made some last minute stops on the roadside, so by the time we reached our base, our backseat was full of bushels of plantains and fish so fresh they were still flopping around when we bought them!
I already feel like I’m a member of this incredible team of believers. I often wonder how I got here. How was I chosen? I heard my answer from my country director this week. He put it best by telling me, “God has a plan for you. And it is good.”
Some roads in Liberia are narrow and rutted, making passage difficult.
It’s that simple. The Lord has brought me to a place where my passion for the Gospel and love for people come together. I’m using the gifts He created within me for His glory. I’m comforted that my team is focusing on advancing The Kingdom. I’m honored to be a part of His work here, in and through Samaritan’s Purse.
I’m thankful, excited, overjoyed, and expectant of all the adventures, growth, and learning yet to come through serving the Lord here in Liberia.
“Oh, give thanks to the Lord! Call upon His name; make known His deeds among the peoples!” (Psalm 105:1, NKJV)
The Samaritan’s Purse internship program is an opportunity for college students and recent graduates to use their skills to impact the world in a tangible way. Find out more here.
