Famiry

I realize I haven't posted much about Honolulu.  I will soon.

But this week I am visiting my family in Washington and being reminded of how much God values family.  I know I'm not one to talk... My parents live in Washington and I live on an island that is really accessible by plane only (unless you have money and time for a cruise.)  That flight is 5 hours if you get a direct flight... which you probably won't.  I realize I'm not the greatest example of living close to family.  But, family is family and when times get tough, what family does is pull together.  So here I am in Washington.

I flew home for a few reasons this May...

First, my brother died on Mother's Day, May 13th, 2007... and that day is still hard for myself and for my parents.  I wanted to be there for my mom.  It has been five years but we still remember and miss our Jeff.

But secondly, my friend's mom is dying from cancer.  This same friend was there for me when my brother died... I just want to live out what I said above: when times get tough, what family does is pull together.  I want to be there for my friend like she was there for me and my parents.

And lastly, my grandmother is also battling cancer and she lives on my parents' property.  She is an amazing woman who has had much influence in my life.  I am happy to be able to take her to her radiation appointments and spend time with her on the drive there and back.  I also helped her with some gardening today.  :)

Sometimes I feel guilty because I'm the person who is always taking "vacations" to go home for one thing or another.  And other times I feel guilty because I'm not home enough.  But I guess it all boils down to family.  God gave me an amazing family in Washington.  He's also given me amazing hanai (kind of like "adopted") family all over the world.  But when times get tough for one of my families, I'm going to do whatever is in my power to get to that family and be there.  Be it skype or in person, God is teaching me to value and be there for my family.

There is much more I want to write.  There are some changes on the horizon for me (in regards to my work with YWAM) but I cannot make them public just yet.  Please keep me in your prayers in the meantime.  This has been a difficult and dark season for me.  But I am starting to see the sun on the horizon and I know I'll get through this.

Looking forward to a sunny and even brighter tomorrow,
Jillian