So around this time last year, we were here in nkwatia and Brittany got the news that one of her grandparents had passed away. I dont know what the deal is with being here, but today we got the news that one of the drivers at the Village of Hope passed away. His name was Michael and one of my favorite adults here. I really got to know him last year on our numerous trips here and there. The second Sunday we were in Ghana this summer, he came up behind me, tapped me on the shoulder and when i turned around he had the biggest smile on his face. I screamed and gave him a big hug and he said its so good to have you back here. Though I only knew him for a short time in my life, he is going to be missed. He leaves behind a wife and kids. He was up here last week dropping some things off and i was outside talking to him and he said he wasnt feeling good. Never in a million years thought that goodbye was going to be the last. 

I hope that his family and everyone at the village of hope knows hes with our father and is in no more pain. I pray that his family feels God's arms around them in this time of sorrow. Anytime id run into michael he'd always ask how i was doing and hoped i was well. 

Michael - 'Your love has given me great joy and encouragement, because you, brother, have refreshed the hearts of the Lord's people. 

 -Philemon 1:7

I just want everyone to cherish the life they have. Whether they are going through a tough time or are having the time of your life, you can never say i love you enough....to the ones who mean the most to you. 

So to my family and friends, i love you to the moon and back. You each have played a certain part in my life who have made me the way i am today. 

Shelby