A New Start

Dear Loved Ones,

Hello to you all! You are in my thoughts and prayers as I am fulfilling my purpose here.

So today is officially the first day I am “alone” in Ghana, all by myself. I say officially since the rest of my classmates were to leave yesterday at 10:20 am, when they really left (I hope) today at 8am. I have not had a chance to make this certain, but in my heart I have a feeling Delta wouldn’t mess up a flight that large for the third time in a row!

So this is certainly the first time I have been abroad alone, but I have no fears or worries. I have developed a wonderful family base with my hotel’s staff and with the Aya Centre (the group that arranges the international groups like out trip). I feel that I have several people to call if I need anything, which makes me feel so safe and very blessed to be supported.

Yesterday though when I realized this my entire attitude changed. My purpose and stay here gained more significance and meaning. Every minute of my day must be used for productivity. Every plan that I make must take advantage of the privilege of being here. Also all of my choices must be reflective and responsible knowing that I am independent. I hope these reflections aren’t too scary for Mom, Dad and others concerned ;) but I want everyone to know that I am well, secure and safe, and that I am being watched over and taken care of.

My goals for this week are many but I know they are attainable. The biggest is to make this mural the absolute best that I can muster. I unveiled it to my group in a humble but significant ceremony on Tuesday evening, though it was not entirely complete. I wanted to share the almost finished work with them as they have been curious and ever supportive the past two weeks, but now I have some details left to do. I won’t post the finished pictures until the end (sorry!) I but I will leave you with another sneak peek from last week (below).

Other than that art interviews, painting, spending time with new and old friends, and networking will consume the remainder of my time. In other words, I will sleep on the plane home. ;)

Thank you all again for your support and blessings and prayers. They are working! And keeping me focused and motivated. God Bless you in every moment of this day.

Love Always,

-Shelley

*Mural in progress on August 15th 2009*