Friday, December 4, 2009

Dr. Amelia, the American Ambassador's wife visits Academy!


Dr. Amelia is the one in Teal in the center of all of the Academy teaching staff

Yesterday I had the priveledge to invite the American Ambassador's wife to speak to our Junior High and High School students. I felt honored meeting her and her husband about 2 weeks ago, while they were taking a tour of the ship, and saying hi to the crew. Dr. Amelia Bell Knight is a rare woman, with so many experiences and has such a passion for international affairs, travelling and serving the United States of America. Her husband and family have been in governmental work for over 20 years, and they feel that they were called by God to be doing the work here in Africa. She has been to all but 2 countries here in Africa, and has visited almost every other country of the world (literally). Inviting her into the school seemed to be a wonderful opportunity for my students, especially since most of them have been to more countries (and lived in them) than I am years in age. Dr. Amelia's belief in prayer and the power of it has definately been evident in her life to those around her. She was definately an inspiration to me. She told the class about the gifts and desires of her heart that had been placed in her life since she was a young girl. One, to travel (especially with the intent of studying cultures) and two, to teach. Its amazing how God puts people in our lives to continue to inspire us in His will for our own lives. I could see a lot of myself in her. I can see truly how God directs us on a path that He paves, not the one we try to fill the potholes in. I probably ended up getting more out of it than my students, but her intriguing life was encouraging to my students too, especially since they too have a "nomadic" type of life. I continue to strive to live my life following Him, shining for Him, and trying to be that mirror for others to see Christ's face in! I cannot wait to see what God has instore for my life, and I feel like this experience here in Africa is really just the stepping stones to something that I cannot even comprehend. Lord, may I look up, and seek your guidance, and follow the path You have intended me to walk on, leading others to look up and see Your glory!
As our time draws to an end here in Benin, we need several prayers!



1. For the enemy to be bound, and God's glory to shine through!

2. For our Captain (and his family) for wisdom, understanding, faith, strength! (physically, mentally & spiritually)

3. For the Engineers and Deck workers, that they may have the strength, wisdom and encouragement---and for their health! The enemy ceirtainly likes to attack...

4. For the health and patience for each crew member (especially on the sail)

5. For the Academy, teachers (grades and planning) and students...and for the Christmas Play that we will be directing during the Sail!