About Bill...

Bill with Moses, Susanna, Sharon and Glory

Bill and I knew each other prior to this trip of course, but we did not know each other that well.  It was great to get to know Bill better, to see his heart and to see how well he adjusted to India.

I have concluded that one either loves India or hates it.  There is no in between.  I think that if you can see past the differences and see the people, you will love it.  However there are a LOT of differences to see past.  There are some days when I am there and I struggle with seeing past them.  On those days/times I have to put my headphones on and listen to music, finding a quiet happy place.  Each time I go those times are less and less for me.  I wondered how well Bill would handle this, but I had a suspicion he would do well.

India = Flexibility - something I am not always known for.  To be successful there you have to be patient and flexible.  For whatever reason when I am in India God grants me both and generally I am very, very content there, even when I don't know exactly what is going to happen next.  Bill as I thought, handled this very well.  I think it is in his nature.

He was willing to learn, to try things, to not take himself too seriously and most of all love everyone we met.  People instantly took to him.  The men appreciated his sacrifice and message.  The women his gentleness and willingness to take them seriously and treat them respectfully.

The children had a blast with Bill.  The knew instinctively that he was there to love on them, and they in return loved him too.  It was fun seeing how happy they were that he learned to sing a song in Telegu and then was willing to sing it for them.  (I had the lyrics written down and seem to have lost them... I learned the song too, but not like Bill.  I still needed help.  He on the other hand got it down pretty pat, pretty quick!)

Bill entertaining some of the children

Bill and I got on great!  We enjoyed what we were doing.  We enjoyed the people.  We enjoyed each other's company.  I love India, and I love being there and being out with Moses.  I have never felt "lonely" when I am there, but at the same time, having a friend that speaks your language and understands your culture and can share some of the joys and frustrations with you is a huge blessing.

Finally I would like to thank Bill, Melissa, Naomi and Jude for the sacrifice they made to allow him to come.  I would also like to thank everyone who contributed to Bill's mission.  Your investment was well-made, and not just because he could join me, but primarily for what he was able to contribute to the Kingdom!