Ashes to ashes...

From the beginning of this blog back in 2011 I've shared a variety of posts;

some are filled with laughter, while others bring tears;

this is one I never wanted to have to write...

As most of you know, my dear friend Terri who led this ministry since the beginning

passed away during the summer of 2015.  She was incredibly instrumental in helping build this ministry to what it is today, and it was a joy to work along side of her through it all.  Her passion for the people of India, specifically the children, was contagious and it was because of that passion that hundreds of kids have received and continue to get an education.  Prior to our first trip over, Terri had traveled here twice; she along with her husband Bill were the pioneers who set the ball in motion for others to venture over to see firsthand what Joyful Journeys Ministries in India was all about.  After our first trip together we vowed we would do it again someday.  The next trip was planned and shortly before we were scheduled to leave there were complications with her health due to cancer making it impossible for her to travel.  The rest of the travelers went on.  Again, plans were made for another try, however continuing issues with her health prevented her from going.  Once again the travelers went on.  That trip was especially difficult as we were to dedicate "Terri's Dining Hall", the building where the orphans and Lunch Bunch kids would eat, plus "Dale's Worship Center", the church that was built from memorials from Terri's late father.  She encouraged us to go with her blessing, declaring that someday we would return together.  

Terri died before that could ever happen.

Prior to Terri's passing, she stated that she would want some of her ashes to be taken to India to be sprinkled within the land she so loved.

"Terri" returned with us this trip; not as I would have wanted it, but to be laid to rest, 

one with the earth.

Today was the day...  

With it came the reminder that all of our time here on earth is limited,

however, it's what we do with that time that has the capability of living forever.

As I walked through the streets of the village, Terri in one hand,Manjula holding the other, and the rest of the travelers close behind I was filled with mixed emotions.  My tears were for the trip that would never happen with Terri, and yet they were also for all the children who swarmed us as we made our way from the hostel to the school.

I realized she lives on in them.

Her ashes were sprinkled in all the place where her legacy will live on.

Joyful Journey Orphanage and Dining Hall, Marshall School, the Cutting and Tailoring Center, and Dale's Worship Center.

Well done thy good and faithful servant; rest in peace.

The rest of the days activities would lift our spirits back up as we had time to interact and play with the children some more...

The guys chilaxin"...

Big Bob and Russ with the male teachers...

We also went to the India Exhibit which was basically like a carnival or festival...

 

There was plenty to do and see, but we were drawn to the camel rides 

which proved to be "up lifting" for many of us...

We ended our evening by going out to Domino's for pizza;

it was a nice reminder of home.

As I close this post, my hope in sharing this with you is that not only will it help remind you of the importance of living a life to the fullest and with purpose; but also to once again recognize Terri Tybring, amazing woman, passionate servant, and beloved sister in Christ.

Namaste'

~Jenny