Lovely Night

Tonight was, dare I say, a 'lovely' night. (That word always reminds me of Edith Rose) I went to observe Ilona leading a small group, one of the cadets' assignments for the summer. Dana went with me to translate. We went to Zaiga's flat. It's in a typical big apartment building, Soviet style. They remind me of the projects in Chicago. Most apartment buildings have one thing in common - the stairways and halls are dark and have not been well-cared for. But, as is often the case, when we went into Zaiga's flat, it was bright and clean and comfortable. Zaiga is one of my favorite ladies. She faithfully attends the Riga 2 corps and while we don't speak the same language we have a special relationship. We have extended conversations almost everytime I see her, with her saying almost 100% and me getting about 60% of it. She always tells me she loves me and prays for me - that's what I need! Sanita was there, too. Another wonderful member of Riga 2. And they have a fun little group, sharing, laughing and learning together. And of course, we ended with teja un kukas (tea and cakes.)

Dana (pronounced Donna ) is helping me because Solveiga is on vacation this month. Before she left, Solveiga told me she is taking another job. I'm not sure how I'll replace her as I've really grown to rely on her not just for translation but for insight. She's been with me since the beginning and understands our purpose and she understands me! (Hopefully, that's not why she's leaving...) Dana may be able to fill in some of that role. I have to trust the Lord to provide the answer for this one. I don't have any of my own great wisdom. Speaking of that, I've been reading Proverbs and here's what struck me today: By wisdom a house is built, and by understanding it is established; by knowledge the rooms are filled with all pleasant and precious riches. Know that wisdom is such to your soul; if you find it, you will find a future, and your hope will not be cut off. (Proverbs 24:3, 4,14) What I have learned throughout this book is that it's not my wisdom but only God's that can be trusted. I definitely need wisdom for what's ahead of me and I'm glad I don't have to rely on my own.

Last night, Zoe and I had a girls' night out - we didn't go very far but it was really good for me and I think, for her, too. We had coffee and sweets at one coffee shop, walked a while and then had tea in another! And in between, lot and lots of talking. We hadn't caught up from our vacations. and both of us have some serious things to think about. It is nice to have someone to 'process' with. By the way, we really did test mattresses last Saturday. I'm trying to live simply here but have decided I need a new bed. I've been sleeping on one that feels to me like a toddler bed. Yes, I'm spoiled by having queen sized beds most of my adult life. I won't go that far, but I am getting something bigger. And I'm buying a decent mattress. Sleep is a priority with me!