The day came and went, and it was a long and tiring day, but I'm finally here in Nazareth, Israel! After being dropped off at Dulles Airport around 3pm Thurs I got on the plane around 5:45pm. Unfortunately we had to wait an hour and a half to officially take off due to weather (thank goodness for movies on international flights). After an 8 hour flight, my layover in Zurich, Switzerland was supposed to be 2 hours. Needless to say I was a bit stressed when I realized I would have only about 25 minutes to get to my next flight once we landed.
Thankfully, I was able to make it on the flight to Tel Aviv, Israel and landed safely around 3pm local time (8am EST). Then came a little more stress. I got held by customs for about an extra 45 minutes...I think because I had a longer visa so they just wanted to make sure everything was okay even after their government had already approved it. That's one of the things you learn about Israel. Because they are the only nation in this region of the world following a western culture it's imperative that they maintain strict regulations. Here's my analogy "If you poke Israel, they'll basically come and punch you in the face."
Anyways, so after being held for a little extra time, I then discovered that my (and my fellow travelers who had the quick transition) luggage didn't make it to Tel Aviv. So that was another hour figuring out the process to get my suitcases that have all my clothes to where I'm staying in Nazareth.
- It was interesting to watch how upset, irate, and annoyed some of the passengers were. I understand, it is a bummer and we've all had a long day. But seriously, that gives you no reason to take out your anger on a person who has had no impact on your luggage being late. It's not their fault...so what's the purpose of yelling at them? I coulda been mad, I could've blamed it all on the 17 hours of traveling I had just experienced. But I stopped myself and decided to MAKE A CHOICE. I chose to keep a level head, be patient, and work with whoever I needed to in order to get what I was looking for. Everything worked out and hopefully I can continue that process for similar situations in the future.
After ALL of that craziness and workin on about an hour of sleep, it put a huge smile on my face to turn the corner and see Hunter, his daughter Haley and 2 friends who are interns for the summer waiting for me with big smiles. I felt wanted, appreciated and welcomed. A feeling we all desire to have.
After the hour and a half drive to Nazareth from Tel Aviv, we got to the Lambeth's house! Even more welcoming to a few familiar faces and some new ones. The summer interns, who are college kids (Emily, Becca, Emily, Nam, Casey, John, Tanner) have been here for June and will stay through July. It's pretty cool to see some kids my age choosing to step out of their comfort zone and experience life in a different part of the world.
After a steak dinner, some hangout time, and late night world cup games, I finally knocked out. Woke up today and still tired...but it's so great to be here. I'm full of thankfulness. To the safety of travel, to the people here who welcomed me and made me feel like I am wanted. To my parents who care so much about. To my friends who have shared life with me and are excited for me. To everyone who has had a hand in praying for me and supporting me. To God, that He has my life and given me all these blessings.
Thank you, Thank you, and Thank you! It's been a long process but right now, my new adventure has officially started.
"The journey of a million miles begins with a single step." - Lao Tzu
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