“It’s a new day dawning; it’s time to sing your song again.” (10,000 Reasons/Matt Redmon)

It is the second full day of the Prague retreat, and it’s hard to believe that we are almost done.

The joy in the air is palpable, and the conversations taking place around the meeting room and over meals reflect the impact of the work that Thrive is doing in the lives of these women. Each global worker has taken precious time away from her work and her family. She came because she needed what Thrive has to offer—connection, being known and understood, prayer, friendship, time for renewal and refreshment.

In addition to our morning time of spiritual encouragement with our speaker and small group discussion, plus special self-care time, friends are reunited and new friendships are being fostered. Today the ladies met in groups by their region of service, and found others who experience the same intricacies of daily life. One region visited the coffee shop owned by one of the attendees who was able to share that piece of the work that she and her husband started.

Every evening we gather for simple fun! Tonight, the theme was “funny stories” and the women shared of their (or their husband’s) cross-cultural faux pas! Since each of the attendees live in a culture where the first language is not their own, the stories of miscommunication are hysterical and become a bit of a “can you top this” competition. Living in dual languages, one of the sweet aspects of being together is getting to worship in their own heart language of English. For many this is rare.

The value of the retreat is clear as we watched the women interact over dinner. Faces that looked tired on Monday arrival now look refreshed and excited—even with the late-night talk and laughter. Women are encouraged by both the presence of the volunteers and by the time spent with others who “get” their lives!

“We know we were made for so much more than ordinary lives. It’s time for us to more than just survive. We were made to Thrive.” (Thrive/Casting Crowns)