Faithfulness and missing Uganda!

I have been mighty grateful for technology and the ability to talk to some of my friends in Uganda since I have returned back to the states. It makes me miss them even more, but it is has also made the transition easier.

My pastor's wife/mentor who was recently diagnosed with a brain tumor found out today from 6 different opinions that they believe the mass to be benign. That is a HUGE blessing and I am in awe from the faithfulness of God and listening to all the prayers. I will continue to pray for that of course.. and my hope is that good news is also given to my aunt who was recently diagnosed with breast cancer and my grandma's cousin who was recently diagnosed with colon cancer.

I wanted to jot down some ways of life that I wish would be universal practices and that I would be better at....
1. Making time for people.. whether it's taking a few minutes when you run into someone you know randomly to chat or being hospitable and setting aside some time when someone comes into town.
2. Taking on someone's hardships as a community instead of trying to deal with something alone. I struggle with the individualistic nature of Americans. It seems to make more sense to suffer with people rather than alone.
3. Sitting down for long meals.. not necessarily eating the whole time, but sitting back and chatting for a period of time after meals without the sense of urgency to do something else.
4. Saying hi to complete strangers that pass by
5. Learning the origin of certain traditions or practices
6. Taking interest in someone from a different country and learning their culture
7. Asking some in-depth questions to people
8. Giving verbal encouragement or compliment to someone
9. Sharing praises that happened
10. Sending unexpected gifts/letters/cards to someone

Tomorrow is not promised to us. Therefore living in the present seems to be the best option. Carpe Diem.