Voyage

I am embraking on a new journey soon. In the past 8 months there have been a couple close contenders for this spot of "new journey"--the charmer that is central PA and children in Tibet. But I'm pretty sure that this time is for real. I'm certain that on May 27th I will be stepping off the plane into the high-rise riddled city of Kuala Lampur, Malaysia. Ready to take on a 9 month internship sharing love, mercy and grace to the Orang Asli through my passion of public health.

What I am getting myself into, I don't fully know. But what I do know is that my heart, mind and soul are prepared. There are sure to be hiccups along the way as I enter into a different culture and attempt to partake of it. There are sure to be incredible moments of revelation in my heart. And there are sure to be moments of complete sorrow and despair as I interact with a fallen humanity. But I can't wait!

As I prepare for this new step I am joined by family and loved-ones, pastors and coworkers, friend and foe. A blanket of prayers surround me and a path of prayers direct me. I could never do this alone, and so I ask that you too would join me on this voyage. Because it's more than a trip, even more than an adventure--it is a journey.

To learn more about what I will be doing in Malaysia or would like to get on my list for newsletters, you can email me at viennasv@yahoo.com or just call me at 732-567-4181.

Blooming winter

There is something about snow. It serves as the cherry blossoms of winter, filling the air and eyes with the softness of dreams past and things hoped for. If the snow is light enough, each small branch can hold snowflakes to its very end and if it stays cold enough the sunrise light rays just melt it enough to glisten like wet glass. The gray-brown dead of winter seems to somehow be resurrected by the layers of white adornment. Small, fat, brown birds make their way to the cherry tree in the front lawn and congregate for casual conversation and a light meal. Their frumpy dark chests contrasted against the clean ground. Life that continues on through winter and somehow grows quainter during the short periods of snow.

It makes me think about this time--where I am at now. This seemingly winterous abyss of time. A good Nor'easter' has come blowing through and brightened the path for the actual blossoms soon to come.