Wilderness Wanderings Began…

…In 1983 when I “rose on the wings of the dawn and dwelt in the uttermost parts of the seas”; that is to say that I took an early flight from Oakland airport to Frankfurt Germany.  It was my first ‘out-of-the-country’ journey and a one-way one at that.  After dreaming of seeing Europe for years I was thrilled (and a bit terrified) to be going to live in Wurzburg, Bavaria. My sister had graciously invited me to visit her as her husband was stationed there.  It was winter and I didn’t even own a warm jacket.  Nevertheless the first snow was delightful.  I had no idea how it was all going to work out, but doors opened after prayers were offered up in harmony with new friends.

I will always be grateful for Lou and Charles, the Alabaman couple, who opened wide their home and hearts to a bunch of unruly american military singles – along with a few others of  us – once a week.  Many of us shared fun, food and great fellowship over the years they were there.  They discipled us too and I still treasure many truths and practical wisdom gained in that time.

Nearly 3 years of my life were invested learning, loving, living and working in Wurzburg.  (It is No. 2 on my Top Ten List of Cities as you will see in my next post.)  I’d love to live a re-run of it. Besides the sharp, euphoric thrill enjoying a new land, language and culture brings when you want to be there, I fell in love with God again through His Word and His children.  I also learned some German, completed a Liberal Arts Degree while organizing classes for enlisted soldiers, explored Europe and went to Scotland a few times.  Germany became my first love of a foreign country and retains a special place in my heart.