frames.

I really love frames. I love the way they hold a beautiful moment, the face of a loved one. I love the way they turn a very plain wall into a memory book, a littered counter into a familiar space. I have seven frames with me in Switzerland, all of which I carried in my luggage. Each frame holds a moment, a face, a scene. They are spread around my little attic room, and bring life and color to the simple desk, night stand and dresser. The little frames are a comfort. They are a reminder of those I love, the ones who mean the most to me. They are a reminder to pray for small friends with big mountains, and for family members who are experiencing life far from me. There are some that hold photos of far-off places, places where I have learned what it means to live, to minister, and to love. There is one that holds hands with a clock, and in this one my sister sits. Her pretty face, and ticking partner remind me that this time is temporary. It is not forever. I will see her soon, and so I should have many adventures before my time has gone. The one just to the right of that holds two faces who are an inspiration. I am very thankful for their guidance, encouragement and love over the years. Their faithful witness has been a blessing in my life. There is another frame just beyond the two. It holds a moment that I cherish, a moment in the summer-time when the sun was just rising. The boy in the frame has become really, very special to me and I laugh when I think of how far we've come from that bus on the hill. I am confident that there are moments I am experiencing right now that will very soon be framed upon my windowsill at home. I'd like to think that I will never be far from the people I love, from the new and wonderful friends that I am making. But in three short months, my time here will be done and I will return home to the people that I love there. My friends, my experiences, the moments I have loved will soon be framed and set up around my new home. It's hard for a heart so easily given to leave those that she loves. It's hard to live a big life, a life that is so full of love and desires culture and experiences. It's a challenge. And it has become a calling. I am content to live my life in a big way, and to never stop making the moments, and loving the faces. I will live and love and learn. I will treasure each and every frame that makes its place in my life.