Sudan on the Brain

This morning I woke up with Sudan on my mind. I must have dreamt about the orphanage, although the details of the dream are alluding me. It’s probably for the better, because I know that if I had dreamt that I was holding baby Hannah, or laughing with Miriam or Sarah Lilly, while little Mary stood quietly by my side, I probably would have cried as soon as I awakened in to the reality that was my freezing cold bedroom.

When I was in Sudan in November, I remember walking across the grounds of the compound, taking a deep breath, and thinking, “Never forget what this place feels like, Molly.” It’s funny how quickly a moment like that passes, and eventually the memory of it really begins to fade, only to be recalled occasionally. Feelings are so fleeting sometimes.

I loved the simplicity of that place. What people who have much, look on others with pity, I saw the Harvesters compound as a place where I felt freedom. Here, sitting at my desk, laptop in front of me, office phone and cell phone by my hand, packed calendar open, ipod, books, my Bible… all reminding me that life is crazy, and somehow people and relationships can get lost in the mix of it. I get lost in the mix of it.

I wonder how hot it is in Yei today. I wonder if the kids played soccer today after they got out of class, or if the ceiling that I helped install in the teachers’ dorm and library has leaked much in the past year. I wonder if they remember Mary and are excited about her returning in November. I wonder what songs filled the air as they sang during their morning devotions. I wonder if they’re continuing to heal from the scars and memories of their pasts, and if they’re feeling the prayers of those of us who were touched by them, and think of them often.

Sudan is on my mind today, and close to my heart. Praying that those beautiful children are feeling the love and presence of God today.