I am currently living in Palmer Lake, Colorado at a missionary training program for three weeks. This experience is very exciting for me because I am learning so many new things that I've really never considered. I'm also getting the amazing opportunity to meet and share with people from all over the country who have experienced a similar calling and will soon be serving Him all over the world.

One thing that has been addressed on several different occassions is the issue of self-awareness. The teachers and administrative staff here emphasize the importance of really knowing yourself because only then will you realize the impact you will have on others. The mission field, and any ministry really, is all about impact. People discover that you are a missionary or you are American, and then they watch you so closely. Everything about the mission field revolves around relationships so it is interesting to start becoming more aware of myself and how others experience me.

This experience is also very worthwhile because it is truly preparing my heart, my mind, and my spirit to finally make this transition. I am so excited but also very frightened and worried at the same time. This training has helped me realize that this isn't uncommon but is actually very normal. The training has only just begun and I am sure that God will teach me many more things through the staff of MTI and the others here who are going to live and serve abroad.