Birthday celebrations and final post from Indonesia

It is April 16, my birthday and my last full day in Indonesia. The English Department of Satya Wacana Christian University consisting of approximately 30 faculty, staff and families (see photo) went on an outing to a coffee plantation in recognition of the end of the semester and my farewell. It just happened to be my birthday which was a delightful way to celebrate. We drove by van from the university to a train station where we toured a train museum, and rode the train to the coffee plantation through beautiful rice and fishing farms (see photo) for a decadent lunch. The faculty surprised me with cake (see photo) and meaningful words and gifts. In the evening, Dan and Jeanne treated me to birthday dinner in a lovely garden setting (with dessert adorned by a "happy birthday" trinket and tea-lite as the candle, thanks to Jeanne) and engaging, thought-provoking conversation, as always. The day was beautiful in all ways – blue sky, no rain during the outing, laughter, friendship, eating and relaxation. I have been deeply blessed by this group of people (see photo). They welcomed me with open arms in January and continued to include me in their work of preparing English teachers, a work I am called to do. I hope we can continue to share in each other’s lives, albeit across an ocean or two.

I have mixed emotions leaving Indonesia. Most of all I am eager to see family and friends, yet there is much sadness in leaving newly formed relationships. Indonesia is a beautiful country with beautiful people and culture.

I leave Salatiga to begin my journey home on Sunday at 10:00 a.m. (on April 16, 11:00 p.m. state-side). From door-to-door I anticipate a 45-hour journey, arriving at 455 Monte Vista Drive in the early evening Monday. As expected this past week has included much reflection about my three months in Indonesia. Now, I know only a little of how my life has been impacted. I will continue to process my experiences over the months and years ahead. Perhaps next year when I turn 50, my Indonesia experiences will hold deeper meaning than I know today. I do know that I am grateful for the opportunity to live and work in Salatiga for the past three months. If given the opportunity to plan this same sabbatical again, I would choose the same experience.

Thank you to our family and friends who prayed us through these past three months and who shared in the excitement of our stories. Our lives are indeed enriched by the relationships we have with people around the world. God is good, all the time.