Tami Wade
An observer of people, places and things, I am an introvert, a stranger in someone else's land; these are my reflections on Mali.

For me, this trip touched me in a different light than the previous trip I made 2 years ago.  I am now part of a medical team which meant a greater role in patient care.  I was asked to be the team leader, a role I found to be way "outside" of my comfort zone.  I am a shy person who prefers to be in the background, a "behind the scenes" person and naturally awkward with public speaking.  My mind was focused elsewhere and the concerns of home made it apparent in the way I led my team.  Why the displacement of my attention? Why allow my thoughts to be entertained by anything else but what I am sent here to do? It was revealed to me after our first clinic of what will soon be asked of my husband and I, another God adventure awaits us I thought to myself...

All of my insecurities and hang-ups were given up to God in prayer.  I felt a sense of relief knowing that missions are about God at work in our world and not about my imperfections or doubts.  Should I trust and obey, I may discern His will for my life in a greater way.

Ultimately, for me, this is not about a trip or a local, but about the journey to a point where one finds "truth" in missions.  I found truth in the smiles of Malian children.  I found truth in the healing and hard-working hands of doctors, nurses and medical staff.  I found truth in the pastors and missionaries whose tireless efforts are not made in vain.  I found truth in a people who long and hunger to know more, evident by the crowds that hovered in the hundreds to view a film about Jesus and salvation.  I found a greater truth in my faith, my Jesus and my God.

I found truth in watching each of my team members immerse themselves in their professional roles.  I saw the hands and feet of Jesus through an elementary school teacher's welcoming efforts to make strangers her friends.  I saw a focused man with gifts of leadership, show such vulnerability when he shared his thoughts with our group.  I saw the relationship of a young couple develop greater depths of respect and tenderness from this shared experience.  I saw a pediatrician whose strengths under pressure were revealed and whose laughter is contagious. Finally, I saw the youngest member of our team whose actions speak volumes bridging barriers of language and culture.  Her fearlessness is inspirational and with a smile, showed love to children that I am certain will leave indelible memories for them for years to come.

I found truth in a question asked of my husband and I, to serve long term? Let's see where this journey leads us...oh by the way come as you are. He can use you just as you are.


N. "Tami" Wade
Mali Medical Mission Member 2012