Fear is temporary; regret is forever

This past week we have been traveling across the country to Cape Town. With many hours of driving, lots of fast food, nights in hotels, and no internet, we have managed to find some fun along the way. Our first big adventure was probably one of the coolest things ever in my life. I jumped off the world’s highest bungee bridge! The hardest part for me was walking under the bridge on a medal caged in bridge to the point that we were going to jump. I couldn’t stand to look down 216 meters to see where I will be falling. Once I got to the jumping platform all my fears seemed to disappear. They had loud music and all of us were dancing and cheering while each other jumped. The moment I jumped I experienced a feeling that I have never felt before... I truly felt completely free and like I was flying. Even as the bungee bounced it was completely peaceful. I couldn’t help but to praise Jesus the whole time. I looked out into the beautiful scenery with a river and mountains, and off in the distance I could see the coastline and ocean, it was magical. While hanging I couldn’t hear a thing except my own voice praising God for His beauty and creation. At one point it crossed my mind, maybe this is what dying feels like. There were moments when my stomach would turn with fear of what was going to happen next, but then there was the magnificent moments of feeling completely free and at peace in middle of the most beautifully scenery and not being to bring anything to my lips but words of praise. It was truly amazing!

Later on in the week we went through an adventure cave, which is always fun. We also went to an ostrich farm where I got to ride an ostrich, it was nothing compared to Rythym! Being in Cape Town is extremely different to where I have spent the last 2 ½ months, I feel like I am back in civilization. It is a strange feeling to be in a place that seems so familiar because of the westernized culture, but to miss a place and culture that is so different from my own. It is almost like I feel like a stranger in the places that I know best. I have a feeling that these emotions of reverse culture shock will only become more real as I begin to process my re-entry into the United States and being back home.

Internet is limited and will continue to be limited, but I will try to make short updates whenever I can. I will be home in three weeks and I am quite excited! As home is coming closer and closer, it is becoming more and more difficult to not think about home and all of the things that I miss. I can’t wait to hear about Mom’s adventures in South Africa and to hug Chad! I will hopeful talk to you all soon! Love you!

P.S. Kelsey: There is nothing that makes me more excited than Starbucks, peanut butter balls, and you! You are amazing!!!