Arriving in Paradise

We have arrived in Camiguin!! The journey was long, but we arrived safely! From Butuan, it only took two jeepneys (the first broke down), a bus, a boat, and a help bus! I have never traveled by this many different types of transportation than I have since I left America. Speaking on behalf of the team, I would say the boat ride was our favorite. It was two hours of the breeze in our hair and staring out into the ocean while basking in God's handiwork. 

We spent the next couple of days doing some final orientation on the local health care and doing courtesy calls. God taught me a lot about patience during these couple days. I was more than ready to be settled in one place for the rest of the summer. But God has shown me the importance of these two days! Because of the courtesy calls we made, the leaders of the island have been so receptive of us. They have done everything to make us feel at home and safe.

On June 12th, the independence day of the Philippines, they invited us to go to their parade. It was so cool to see all of the festivities taking place! When the parade began they invited us to walk with them and even hold their flag!

It was such an honor to represent the Barangay of San Isidro! This is just one instance of how they have made us feel at home. Since we arrived they have shown us nothing but kindness. They bring us water when our water is off, they bring us firewood, they hang lights, and so much more. Our neighbor directly next to us has gone above and beyond for us. Her name is Nanay Rufa and is our "Person of Peace". She is an incredible woman who sacrifices a lot to help us out. We are so very thankful for her! They know what it is to love your neighbor. They have shown so much love. I am falling more and more in love with these people every day. 

Pray that we will continue to be learners of the local culture and share the same kind of love that has been shown to us.