I apologize if you covered this in a post before I started reading the blog, but do you have to go back in December? Would they renew your contract? Would you stay if they would?
I'm considered 'short term' crew here on the ship. It means I stay less than a year, and I get to choose when I come and when I leave (within parameters of their needs). Our time in Liberia is over in mid-December, when the ship will sail to Tenerife for a much-needed 2 month break from field service. I'll fly home to Canada and the States and do a course at the land base in Texas called Gateway ... that's what you need to come 'long term' (signing on for 2 years) or anything past your one year of short term. I definitely want to be here for Benin next year, so I'll do the course and come on back. I can't stay away.
We're not under a normal contract ... no one on the ship is paid (we pay crew fees each month, actually, for room and board), and there are always needs. They were excited when I told them I'd be back. =)
That was long-winded, but I don't think I've ever explained that fully on here, so I figured I might as well!
It's a little late this year, but it's definitely something to keep in mind for next year! If it ended up being bigger stuff, we could even get it put on a container to come over, but that would have to be after February or so.
I just wanted to say how much I love your blog and how it has given me so much to think about. I recently discovered it and have been getting little else done around my house because I am too busy reading all your back posts! This whole Mercy Ships concept is completely fascinating to me. I also found your list of other Mercy Ships blogs/links and now I have a whole lot more reading to do! I am amazed with your dedication and love of what you are doing. The world needs alot more people like you and the crew you work with. I have spent time in Kenya (my parents were missionaries there for awhile) and I don't think anyone can truly understand the huge needs and dire poverty of so many people in the world without seeing it firsthand. It is heartbreaking and unfair. My own kids don't know how good they have it. We are all so blessed, and I wish we could do more to help those who aren't so fortunate, due to no fault of their own. Keep up the good work. You are in my thoughts and prayers!
Hello. I just wanted to let you know that you have touched my heart today. A friend of mine led me to your blog. I am a teacher and LOVE reading such stories from you. We have one thing in common for sure: love and compassion for children. Thank you for allowing me to read your blog. You are for sure an inspiration to me. You and all your patients will be in my prayers. THANK YOU