Gratitude

As an introvert who spends a lot of time working with other people, I value my time alone at home very much. The last time I took a Meyer's Briggs personality test, I came up with a 98 percent Introverted score. During Covid lockdowns, I was home alone for about two months- and was just fine staying home alone forever. Because the Lord has called me to ministry that specifically includes interpersonal relationships, connections, and quality time, I hold dear the precious moments I have alone. This is who I have always been, and so it is very hard for me to feel lonely.

That being said, being on the mission field has been lonely lately. My roomie and best friend moved away, leaving me to be home alone, but also taking with her my main source of community and conversation in Oaxaca. I am incredibly blessed with a solid friendship group in Arizona, my home base, and I've felt a new intense longing to spend more time with them as well. My family is very close-knit, and I've really felt the distance separating us, too. So even though I do love being alone, there are people in my life who I miss very desperately and wish to spend more time with.

Don't worry, this isn't a sad blog. I'm providing the context in which God has sent me such blessings!

This year we had a new teacher join OCS, and she is a wonderful new friend who arrived just in time! We actually spent hours this week wrapping presents for a Youth Group activity together, laughing and eating yummy snacks. My partner at Girasol is always a great sounding board and inspiration. Our team just celebrated our third Amanecer Graduation! Plus, I am lucky enough to be neighbors with my parents.

God provided a job in the summer reading AP Essays (very boring), and it allowed me to visit my friends and family (and even make it to my former roomie's beautiful wedding!).

And God has really pointed out to me the overwhelming abundance of community that surrounds me. I was recently in the hospital, and many people offered to drive me, pick me up, spend hours waiting in the waiting room, bring me meds, etc. It was incredibly kind. I even had a former student who now lives in another country reach out and pray for me!

So though I miss people who are very far away from me very much, I also love the people surrounding me very much and am so, so grateful for them.

That's what I've been reflecting on this Thanksgiving- gratitude (obviously). Specifically, gratitude for having so many people I love that I always leave a part of my heart somewhere else in the world and miss someone constantly. Gratitude for technology, visits, and calls that keep us all connected. Gratitude for the people who are by my side working and serving. Gratitude for God's provision. Gratitude for wonderful evenings recharging at home alone.

As you pray for me in the coming months, please keep the following prayer requests in mind:

-I will be having surgery at the beginning of January, so that will be an emotional, financial, and physical burden, in addition to being time-consuming! Pray that I heal well, that I am able to rely well on those caring for me, and for peace.

-We are going to be more short-staffed at Girasol next year due to some changes in people being available to help. Pray for more volunteers, perseverance, and strength and wisdom as we tackle the challenges

-Pray we find a new Principal for Oaxaca Christian School for the 25-26 school year- we currently don't have someone to lead us next year.

As always, I am thankful for the people who support me, pray for me, and encourage me. Thank you for keeping updated on the ministry here in Oaxaca.

Feliz Navidad!

-Ruth Perez

*enjoy scrolling through some highlights from the past few months: