Thoughts from 35,000 feet

Here is an excerpt from my journal, 9-30-04:
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I am on the "big plane," on the way to Cape Town. We'll stop on an island off the coast of West Africa to refuel. Unfortunately for those who'd like to stretch their legs, we won't be on the ground long enough to able to get off the plane. Funny, all the money [and preparation time, etc.] it takes to get ON the plane, and the main thing that occupies most passengers' minds is "when can I get OFF?" Trips like this are a reminder of the value of living in the moment & treasuring the journey.

There's a display on the screen in front of me on the bulkhead wall that shows where the plane is on its path, with stats on how far it is to the destination & how much time it will take to get there (& how cold it is just outside the window: 50 degrees below zero F!). It's interesting for a while, but then you realize how futile it is to think about the numbers, given how big they are; back to the "treasure the journey" idea.
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The rest of our trip went very smoothly, with no major delays in customs and only one unfortunate soul not getting her luggage on time (my sympathies!). It is now Saturday morning, and the group is starting to come alive after a much-needed night of sleep. We got a great overview of the area in a bus tour that began as soon as we left the airport. We had the pleasure of visiting the "Learn To Earn" center in one of the townships, operated by African Leadership. This is where students learn practical work skills such as sewing, woodworking and even basic graphic design. After a few weeks of formal learning, they can return to the center for further mentoring and use of the equipment. They also get instruction on life skills and spiritual principles as well, in keeping with the purpose of the center to equip the students to be good citizens, not only of South Africa, but also of God's kingdom.

Thanks for your continued prayers!
Grace & Peace,
Mark Kelly Hall
www.markmusicmatters.com