until suddenly you find yourself 71, or 75, or 80, or 90! God willing, I will still be reflecting at 90. The older you get, the more reflecting you do and the more there is to reflect....so many life events, stored memories, joys and challenges. And still so much to do!
It was Nurses' Week, this week, and our hospital, like many others, celebrated nurses with inspiring talks, special food, Reiki, Yoga, massages, and even a Blessing of the Hands. This is so meaningful for me. A holistic lifestyle is essential to a long life. We must eat well, exercise, meditate, walk, reflect, smile, and use your hands to pray, and to reach out and touch someone. This is a sure formula for inner peace and wellness.
I look forward to another journey to Chiapas! May 24, I will join 2nd Pres. of Bloomington, who has taken up the cause and formed a medical team for the 3rd year in a row. Fellow nurses and doctors will treat, care for, pray with, and learn much from the people of Chiapas. We will be humbled. With toothless smiles and shy handshakes, hundreds of these simple, hard working, grateful, hospitable Tzeltal Indians will be seen at our clinic at the base of the mountain.
Please pray for them, and for us.
I will stay an extra 2 weeks to work in the clinic with our new doctor and nurse. They are doing well, and the relationship between us is strong, and yet evolving. I will work with Jan, our dear missionary friend, as she hosts yet another short term group, teaches English, leads the young people at the little Ocosingo church, accompanies her husband, Pastor Pablo on his pastoral rounds to the villages, and witnesses to men incarcerated or struggling with drug and alcohol problems.
I am just a humble visitor, dropped in to be a friend and witness, and maybe to share some kind of gift.
More later, from the field!
May you celebrate your 40th, 50th, 70th, or 100th with the joy of The Lord, and excitement for each new day! Happy Spring, finally, and Happy Mother's Day! 
Love,
Carolyn, now in my 72nd year.....
